CDL Program: Behind the Wheel
2026-02-23 07:15 - 16:45, 2026-02-24 07:15 - 16:45, 2026-02-25 07:15 - 16:45, 2026-02-26 07:15 - 16:45 (America/Chicago) | Fox Valley Technical College, 1825 N Bluemound Dr, Appleton, Wisconsin, 54914
This WRTP | BIG STEP program will set you up to obtain your commercial driver’s license (CDL). This license is required to operate certain heavy vehicles with a towing capacity of more than 10,000 lbs. Get one step closer to a career in construction or transportation!
Step 1: Register by January 5, 2026 (spots are limited)
Orientation Dates:
Tuesday, January 13 | 1 – 2:30 PM (In-person)
Wednesday, January 14 | 12 – 1:30 PM (Virtual)
Step 2: Complete the virtual course

CDL Theory Course: 16 hours, online, self-paced
January 19 – 30, 2026

Step 3: Attend in-person CDL behind-the-wheel training

CDL Behind the Wheel: 120 hours, 3 weeks, in person
Fox Valley Technical College | Appleton, WI
Monday – Thursday | 7:15 AM – 4:45 PM
February 9 – 26, 2026

Questions?
northeast@wrtp.org | (920) 961-2232
Register NowWRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in any of its activities or operations. Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities. To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787. Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired callers can contact us through Wisconsin Relay Service at 7-1-1.

Information Session & ACCUPLACER Testing: La Crosse
2026-02-23 09:00 - 10:00, 2026-02-23 13:00 - 14:00 | La Crosse Job Center, 2615 East Ave S, La Crosse, Wisconsin, 54601
WRTP | BIG STEP provides apprenticeship readiness testing, tutoring, and training dedicated to helping community residents prepare for and succeed in careers in the construction trades.
Dates:

Thursday, January 29
Monday, February 23
Wednesday, March 18
Thursday, April 23
Wednesday, May 27
Wednesday, June 24

Times:
Information session from 9 – 10 AM,
followed by testing from 10 AM – 12 PM
OR
Information session from 1 – 2 PM,
followed by testing from 2 – 4 PM
Where:
La Crosse Job Center
2615 East Ave South | La Crosse, WI 54601
Orientation Provides:

Overview of WRTP | BIG STEP trainings and programs
Exposure to occupations and career pathways within the skilled trades
Assessment of individual needs and strengths
Testing, tutoring, and other employment preparatory services
Plan of action for employment

Requirements:

Valid driver’s license
Social Security card

The ACCUPLACER assessment is a series of aptitude tests that evaluate skills in reading comprehension, math, and sometimes writing, which are crucial for success in the trades. The test evaluates an applicant’s readiness to enter an apprenticeship program or identifies areas where applicants may need additional support.
Questions?
abrunn@wrtp.org
(534) 235-9019
LEARN MORE:WRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in any of its activities or operations.
Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities.
To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787. Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired callers can contact us through Wisconsin Relay Service at 7-1-1.

High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) Training: Milwaukee
2026-02-23 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-02-24 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-02-25 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-02-26 09:00 - 13:00 | Milwaukee WRTP | BIG STEP, 3841 West Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53208, United States
Are you ready to take the next step toward a career in the skilled trades?
Brought to you by WRTP | BIG STEP and Literacy Services of Wisconsin, this 16-week course helps you earn your high school diploma while you learn valuable manufacturing or construction trade skills! A diploma is important for securing quality, family-supporting employment and a requirement if you choose to enter a paid apprenticeship.
Orientation (Mandatory)
February 20, 2026 | 2 – 4 PM
Training
February 23 – June 12
Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 1 PM
Questions?
Please call (414) 937-3605 or email bfoley@wrtp.org
Must attend one of the following TABE testing sessions:

January 21, 1 – 5 PM
January 28, 1 – 5 PM
February 11, 1 – 5 PM

Qualifications

Social Security card
Pass general assessment of 6th grade level TABE
Have an interest in manufacturing or construction

Industry-Led, Worker-Centered, and Community-Focused. Our mission is to enhance the ability of public and private institutions and develop a more diverse, qualified workforce in construction, manufacturing and emerging sectors of the regional economy. It is the policy of WRTP | BIG STEP to provide equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or expression, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, status as a disabled veteran, and/or veteran or spouse of a veteran, or any other characters protected by federal, state, or local law. WRTP | BIG STEP will provide reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified disabled individuals. WRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider. To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787.

Highway Construction Skills Training (HCST) Training Program: Milwaukee
2026-02-23 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-24 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-25 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-26 09:00 - 14:00 | Milwaukee WRTP | BIG STEP, 3841 West Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53208, United States
WRTP | BIG STEP administers a Highway Construction Skills Training Program that is recognized statewide by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). This program provides credentials and hands-on experiences that connect individuals to careers in construction. This program will make you STAND OUT.*
Classes are held for 7 weeks, Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 2 PM, at the WRTP | BIG STEP Milwaukee campus.
Classes include:

OSHA certification
First aid/CPR
Flagger’s training
CDL preparation
Hands-on projects
Tool & material identification
Trades application assistance
Construction mathematics
Basic blueprint reading
Contractor engagement & networking

Requirements:

Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a license
High school diploma, GED, or HSED
Social Security card
Drug-free (ability to PASS a drug screen)
Seeking a career in the construction industry

Training Enrollment:
December 29, 2025 | 2 PM
January 5, 2026 | 2 PM
Classes Run:
January 12 – February 27, 2026
Learn MoreSuccessful completion of this program increases your opportunity for a career in the skilled trades.
Contact Us for More Information:
(414) 342-9787
dboyd@wrtp.org
*This program is funded in part by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and is available at no cost for eligible candidates. The employers recruiting from this program are all equal opportunity employers.
WRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in any of its activities or operations. Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities. To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787. Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired callers can contact us through Wisconsin Relay Service at 7-1-1.

Highway Construction Skills Training (HCST) Program: Racine
2026-02-23 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-24 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-25 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-26 09:00 - 14:00 | Gateway Technical College: SC Johnson iMET Center, 2320 Renaissance Blvd, Sturtevant, WI, 53177, United States
WRTP | BIG STEP administers a Highway Construction Skills Training Program that is recognized statewide by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). This program provides credentials and hands-on experiences that connect individuals to careers in construction. This program will make you STAND OUT.*
Classes are held for 7 weeks, Monday – Friday from 9 AM – 2 PM, at Gateway and iMET Campus
Classes Include:

OSHA certification
First aid/CPR
Flagger’s training
Construction mathematics
Basic blueprint reading
Tool & material identification
CDL preparation
Hands-on projects
Trades application assistance
Contractor engagement & networking

Requirements:

Must be 18 years or older
Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a license
High school diploma, GED, or HSED
Social Security card
Digital literacy
Updated resume
Seeking a career in construction
Ability to pass a drug screen

Mandatory Orientation:
January 27, 2026 | Register by January 15
Classes Run:
February 2 – March 20
Successful completion of this program increases your opportunity for a career in the skilled trades.
Questions? Contact Milton Chitatariso:
(608) 738-9722
mchitatariso@wrtp.org
*This program is funded in part by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and is available at no cost for eligible
candidates. The employers recruiting for this opportunity are all equal opportunity employers.
Register for OrientationWRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in any of its activities or operations. Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities. To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787. Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired callers can contact us through Wisconsin Relay Service at 7-1-1.

Water & Sewer Entry-Level Construction Skills (ELCS) Training Program: Milwaukee 2026
2026-02-23 10:00 - 13:00, 2026-02-24 10:00 - 13:00, 2026-02-25 10:00 - 13:00 | Milwaukee WRTP | BIG STEP, 3841 West Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53208, United States
This incentivized 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 program focuses on the water and sewer sector, preparing participants for apprenticeships in the trades with steamfitters, electricians, plumbers, sheet metal workers, ironworkers, and more.
Classes Run:
January 20 – May 22, Monday – Friday
10 AM – 1 PM
WRTP | BIG STEP Milwaukee & MATC’s West Allis Campus
Attend an Info Session to Learn More:
December 16, December 18, January 6, or January 8 (Must attend one info session)
5 – 6 PM at WRTP I BIG STEP
Mandatory orientation on January 15
This program will make you stand out*
Classes Include:

OSHA certification
First aid/CPR
Construction mathematics
Basic blueprint reading
Principles of water resources
Environmental health/water quality
Hands-on projects
Trades application assistance
Contractor engagement & networking

Requirements:

Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a license
High school diploma, GED, or HSED
Social Security card
Drug-free (ability to PASS a drug screen)
Seeking a career in construction

*Successful completion of this program increases your opportunity for a career in the skilled trades in the water sector. The employers recruiting for this opportunity are all equal opportunity employers. This program is available at no cost to eligible candidates.

She Drives the Future: Female-Only ELCS+CDL Class A Orientation
2026-02-23 14:00 - 15:00 | Milwaukee WRTP | BIG STEP, 3841 West Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53208, United States
WRTP I BIG STEP’s Entry-Level Construction Skills (ELCS) training is a certified pre-apprenticeship training through the State of Wisconsin. This program provides credentials and hands-on experience that connect women seeking careers in commercial driving and construction.
Classes are held March 2 – May 22, 2026 | Monday – Friday | 8 AM – 3 PM
Learn more at an informational session (must attend one session to enroll):
February 9 (Rescheduled from February 2) | 2 PM
February 16 | 2 PM
Registration is required one day prior to your informational session of choice.
Mandatory orientation session:
February 23 | 2 PM
WRTP | BIG STEP Milwaukee
3841 W Wisconsin Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53208
Requirements:

Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain one
High school diploma, GED, or HSED
Social Security card
ACCUPLACER
CDL permit (or the ability to get one)
Ability to pass the Department of Transportation’s physical and pass the drug screen
Good driving record: no more than one DUI or OWI in the past three years and no more than two DUI or OWI offenses over the lifetime of the driving record

Classes Include:

CDL Class A training & Behind the Wheel
OSHA certification
First aid/CPR
Flagger’s training
Construction mathematics
Basic blueprint reading
Tool & material identification
Hands-on projects
Trades application assistance
Contractor engagement & networking

Questions?
Contact De’Borah for more information at (414) 899-1443 or dboyd@wrtp.org
This program is 100% financed by the U.S. Department of Labor Women’s Bureau and is available at no cost for eligible candidates.
Register for an Information SessionWRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in any of its activities or operations. Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities. To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787. Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired callers can contact us through Wisconsin Relay Service at 7-1-1.

Entry-Level Construction Skills (ELCS) Training Program: Madison
2026-02-23 17:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-24 17:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-25 17:00 - 21:00 | Madison College – Truax Campus, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI, 53701
WRTP | BIG STEP ELCS training is a 12-week certified pre-apprenticeship program through the State of Wisconsin. ELCS training provides industry-recognized credentials and hands-on experience that connect individuals to careers in construction. This program is at no cost to you and will make you stand out*!
Training Schedule:
January 12 – April 2, 2026
Classes run Monday – Thursday | 5 – 9 PM, Madison College – Truax Campus
1701 Wright St | Madison, WI 53701
Orientation Dates:
December 9, 2025 | 2 – 3 PM, WRTP | BIG STEP Office
December 13, 2025 | 9 – 10 AM, Virtual
December 16, 2025 | 4 – 5 PM, WRTP | BIG STEP Office
January 7, 2026 | 4 – 5 PM, WRTP | BIG STEP Office
WRTP | BIG STEP Provides You With the Connections & Skills Needed for Careers in the Trades:

Apprenticeship Readiness
OSHA 30 Certification
First Aid/CPR
Entry-Level Welding Certificate
Construction Mathematics
Trades Aptitude Testing
Tool & Material Identification
Basic Blueprint Reading
Hands-On Projects
Apprenticeship Application Assistance
NABTU (North America’s Building Trades Unions) Curriculum, MC3: Nationally Recognized Credential

Requirements:

High school graduate or completion of HSED/GED (or documentation in progress)
Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one prior to employment
Either an eligible applicant on a trade list OR willing to pursue a construction apprenticeship
Ability to pass a drug screen
Social Security card
Digital literacy

Questions?
Contact Stacy Tran at stran@wrtp.org or (608) 895-1508.
*Successful completion of this program increases your opportunity for a career in the skilled trades.
Attendance at an orientation is required for enrollment. Please fill out the form found here to indicate your preferred date.
WRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in any of its activities or operations. Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities. To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787. Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired callers can contact us through Wisconsin Relay Service at 7-1-1.

Entry-Level Construction Skills (ELCS) Training Program: Kaukauna
2026-02-23 17:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-24 17:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-25 17:00 - 21:00 | Carpenters Eastern Training Center, N2216 Bodde Rd, Kaukauna, Wisconsin
WRTP | BIG STEP’s ELCS training, a pre-apprenticeship program certified by the State of Wisconsin, provides industry-recognized credentials and hands-on experience that connects individuals to careers in construction. This program is provided at no cost to you and will make you stand out!*
Training Schedule:
February 2 – March 12, 2026
Monday – Thursday | 5 – 9 PM at Carpenters Eastern Training Center
N2216 Bodde Rd | Kaukauna, WI
March 16 – April 2, 2026
Monday – Thursday | 5 – 9 PM at FVTC, D.J. Bordini Center
5 N Systems Dr, Room BC184 | Appleton, WI
Orientation Dates (Must attend one info session):
January 27, 2026 | 3:30 PM (in-person)
January 28, 2026 | 12 PM (virtual)
Northeast Wisconsin Building Trades Office
2828 N Ballard Rd
Appleton, Wisconsin 54911
WRTP | BIG STEP Provides You With the Connections & Skills Needed for Careers in the Trades:

Apprenticeship Readiness
OSHA 30 Certification
First Aid/CPR
Construction Mathematics
Trades Aptitude Testing
Tool & Material Identification
Basic Blueprint Reading
Hands-On Projects
Apprenticeship Application Assistance
NABTU (North America’s Building Trades Unions) Curriculum, MC3: Nationally Recognized Credential

Requirements:

High school graduate or completion of HSED/GED (or documentation in progress)
Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one prior to employment
Ability to pass a drug screen
Social Security card
Digital literacy

Questions?
Contact aarndt@wrtp.org or (920) 961-2232.
*Successful completion increases your opportunity for a career in the skilled trades.
Register for OrientationWRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in any of its activities or operations. Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities. To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787. Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired callers can contact us through Wisconsin Relay Service at 7-1-1.

2026 BIG STEP Orientation Sessions: Milwaukee
2026-02-24 09:00 - 10:00 | Milwaukee WRTP | BIG STEP, 3841 West Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53208, United States
BIG STEP (Building Industry Group Skilled Trades Employment Program) is an apprenticeship readiness tutoring and training program dedicated to helping community residents prepare for and succeed in careers in the construction trades.
This orientation provides:

Overview of WRTP | BIG STEP trainings and programs
Exposure to occupations and career pathways within the skilled trades
Assessment of individual needs and strengths
Testing, tutoring, and other employment preparatory services
Plan of action for employment

Requirements:

Valid driver’s license
Proof of high school graduation/GED
Social Security card
Successful completion of the WRTP | BIG STEP Intake Application

Orientation:

January 6 | 9 AM
January 13 | 4 PM*
January 27 | 9 AM
February 3 | 9 AM
February 10 | 4 PM*
February 24 | 9 AM
March 3 | 9 AM
March 10 | 4 PM*
March 24 | 9 AM

January 6 | 9 AM
January 13 | 4 PM*
January 27 | 9 AM
February 3 | 9 AM
February 10 | 4 PM*
February 24 | 9 AM
March 3 | 9 AM
March 10 | 4 PM*
March 24 | 9 AM

*This session is an evening orientation ONLY. ACCUPLACER testing appointments will be scheduled for all attendees to take place on the following Thursday.
Questions?
Call (414) 342-9787 or email intake@wrtp.org
Learn more:
WRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in any of its activities or operations. Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities. To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787. Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired callers can contact us through Wisconsin Relay Service at 7-1-1.

Entry-Level Construction Skills (ELCS) Information Sessions: Madison 2026
2026-02-24 13:00 - 14:00 | Milwaukee WRTP | BIG STEP, 3841 West Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53208, United States
WRTP | BIG STEP’s ELCS training, a 12-week pre-apprenticeship program certified by the State of Wisconsin, provides industry-recognized credentials and hands-on experience that connect individuals to careers in construction. This program is provided at no cost to you and will make you stand out!*
Training Schedule:
March 18 – June 11
Classes run Monday – Thursday | 5 – 9 PM, Madison College – Truax Campus
1701 Wright St | Madison, WI 53701
Information Sessions:
(Must attend one session to enroll)
February 10, February 17, February 24, March 3
1 – 2 PM at WRTP | BIG STEP
WRTP | BIG STEP Provides You With the Connections & Skills Needed for a Career in the Trades:

Apprenticeship Readiness
OSHA 30 Certification
First Aid/CPR
Entry-Level Welding Certificate
Construction Mathematics
Trades Aptitude Testing
Tool & Material Identification
Basic Blueprint Reading
Hands-On Projects
Apprenticeship Application Assistance
NABTU (North America’s Building Trades Unions) Curriculum, MC3: Nationally Recognized Credential

Requirements:

Valid Wisconsin-issued ID or driver’s license
Proof of high school graduation or equivalency
Social Security card
Digital literacy
Complete ACCUPLACER test
Drug-free (ability to pass a drug screen)
Attend mandatory training orientation in March

Questions?
Contact Stacy Tran at stran@wrtp.org or (608) 895-1508.
*Successful completion increases your opportunity for a career in the skilled trades.
Learn More:

Name(Required)

First

Last

Phone(Required)Email(Required)

Which session are you interested in attending?(Required)March 3Message

WRTP | BIG STEP is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws in any of its activities or operations. Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities. To request information in an alternate format, including language assistance or translation of the information, please contact us at (414) 342-9787. Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired callers can contact us through Wisconsin Relay Service at 7-1-1.
