Success Stories

Overcoming Labels, Limiting Beliefs: Edmund Reetz

Enrolling in WRTP | BIG STEP’s Entry-Level Construction Skills (ELCS) program taught Edmund Reetz, who was already a welder by trade, some unexpected lessons. “There were valuable transferable skills that I learned going through the program, like showing up on time and committing yourself to something,” Edmund says. “It was just what I needed… Continue Reading Overcoming Labels, Limiting Beliefs: Edmund Reetz

Overcoming Labels, Limiting Beliefs: Edmund Reetz2025-08-15T10:53:20-05:00

Taking Career to New Heights: Ricardo Rojas

The apprenticeship pathway is taking Ricardo Rojas to new heights. The 2021 BIG STEP Builders graduate is working toward journeyman status, with the goal of eventually becoming a foreman. Our Milwaukee office’s BIG STEP Builders program introduces high school juniors and seniors to careers in construction through hands-on projects, field trips to union halls,… Continue Reading Taking Career to New Heights: Ricardo Rojas

Taking Career to New Heights: Ricardo Rojas2025-08-15T11:02:35-05:00

Breaking Norms, Cementing Career: Tatyana Klahn

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

Breaking Norms, Cementing Career: Tatyana Klahn2025-08-15T11:11:54-05:00

Building a Better Life: Brandon Ericson

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

Building a Better Life: Brandon Ericson2025-08-15T11:20:07-05:00

Finding a Post-Military Career: Jake Ondike

“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

Finding a Post-Military Career: Jake Ondike2025-08-15T11:29:21-05:00

Transformational Journey(man): Noel McChristian

Transforming Lives through WRTP | BIG STEP In 2006, Noel McChristian's life took a significant turn when he joined the WRTP | BIG STEP program. Before this, Noel faced various challenges but was determined to build a better future. His journey began when he met John Anderson, the Southeast Director at WRTP | BIG… Continue Reading Transformational Journey(man): Noel McChristian

Transformational Journey(man): Noel McChristian2025-08-15T11:43:29-05:00

Paving a New Life Path: Jonathon Barba-Lopez

Jonathon Barba-Lopez was 16 when he found out he was having a baby—and made a decision that changed his life. “I was in high school but walking a bad path,” he says. “I was depressed. I was skipping school. I was 16, about to be a father, and I needed a job.” Jonathon enrolled… Continue Reading Paving a New Life Path: Jonathon Barba-Lopez

Paving a New Life Path: Jonathon Barba-Lopez2025-08-15T11:53:29-05:00

Beyond Barriers: Derrick Powe

I am thrilled to share the inspiring success story of one of our former students, Derrick Powe. With our support, he overcame significant personal challenges and is now flourishing in his second year of the sheet metal apprenticeship program. Derrick is a justice-impacted individual who participated in our Entry-Level Construction Skills program. He quickly… Continue Reading Beyond Barriers: Derrick Powe

Beyond Barriers: Derrick Powe2025-08-18T09:59:00-05:00

Role Model for Women: Carshella Porter

At WRTP | BIGSTEP, our WANTO (Women in Nontraditional Occupations) program is transforming lives and careers right here in Milwaukee. Through tailored training, case management, and supportive services, we’re breaking down barriers and empowering women to thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields. One shining example of success in the WANTO program is Carshella Porter, a determined… Continue Reading Role Model for Women: Carshella Porter

Role Model for Women: Carshella Porter2025-08-18T12:46:58-05:00
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