Despite having prior experience in construction, Russell Pawelko was looking for additional knowledge to level up from working a job to starting a career. While on probation, Russell’s parole officer recommended WRTP | BIG STEP and the union trades. Russell came to our Racine office and learned about what the unions had to offer.… Continue Reading Leveling Up Construction Experience: Russell Pawelko
WRTP | BIG STEP’s Entry-Level Construction Skills certified pre-apprenticeship training provides credentials and hands-on experience to connect individuals to careers in construction. In partnership with Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) and Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), this incentivized program focuses on the water and sewer sector, preparing participants for apprenticeships in the trades with… Continue Reading Tapping Into Potential: Jakori Jones
Tatyana Klahn heard about WRTP | BIG STEP from her brother, who came to us for career services, but she blazed a path all her own as a 2024 Madison Summer Trades Academy and Entry-Level Construction Skills graduate. Prior to starting the Summer Trades Academy, Tatyana had no experience with the trades. “I had… Continue Reading Breaking Norms, Cementing Career: Tatyana Klahn
Brandon with Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley Obtaining certified pre-apprenticeship credentials “catapulted me into my future,” says Brandon Ericson, a 2024 graduate of WRTP | BIG STEP’s Certified Production Technician and High School Equivalency Diploma (CPT HSED) training. During the 16-week program, participants simultaneously earned certifications in two Manufacturing Skill Standards Council… Continue Reading Building a Better Life: Brandon Ericson
“WRTP | BIG STEP impacted my life in a big way,” says Jake Ondike, a veteran who launched his post-military career with the help of WRTP | BIG STEP’s Racine staff. “It’s the start of my new career that I’m going to be doing for the next 20 or so years.” In 2024, Jake applied… Continue Reading Finding a Post-Military Career: Jake Ondike
