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
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
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
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
Originally written by Chuck Quirmbach for WUWM 89.7 FM Two Biden administration cabinet members looked very favorably upon the Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership (WRTP) | BIG STEP organization during recent visits. Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su brought news of more than $1 million for training on building and maintaining electric vehicle charging stations. At… Continue Reading Black Construction Trainees In Milwaukee Could Help Alter Underrepresentation in Industry
On Friday, January 26th, WRTP | BIG STEP South Central joined the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County and the Latino Academy of Workforce Development, Inc. at the McKenzie Regional Workforce Center to celebrate the first 12 graduates of the Careerforce Build UP! Pre-Apprenticeship Training. These 12 students dedicated 12 weeks to hands-on,… Continue Reading Careerforce Build UP! Pre-Apprenticeship Graduation
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
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
Madison, WI – Following a competitive process, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin selected the Wisconsin Broadband Workforce Coalition to lead workforce development planning efforts for the more than $1 billion broadband infrastructure investment coming to Wisconsin. The coalition will be led by Josh Morby and executives from WRTP | BIG STEP, a nationally… Continue Reading PSC selects Wisconsin Broadband Workforce Coalition to lead BEAD workforce planning efforts
Robert Artley and Zacharias Smith have similar stories: Both came to WRTP | BIG STEP as veterans after falling on hard times, and both found themselves job-hopping with little success, lacking confidence, and looking for support that could lead them back to family-supporting careers. They got the support they needed when the Center for… Continue Reading Starting Over After Serving: Robert Artley & Zacharias Smith
