WC Wisconsin News

Western Technical College has announced the launch of a new Mechatronics Technician Apprenticeship program, developed in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. The initiative is supported by funding from a Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development grant provided by the U.S. Department of Education in 2024. The grant, known as Apprenticeships for Rural Regions Innovating Vocational Education (ARRIVE), aims to create opportunities for rural students to enter Certified Pre-Apprenticeship and Registered Apprenticeship programs across various sectors, including manufacturing.

The Mechatronics Technician Apprenticeship will require participants to complete four years of paid related instruction totaling 27 credits, along with 10,000 hours of on-the-job training. Instruction will cover electrical, mechanical, and control systems.

Regional industries such as Kwik Trip are preparing to enroll apprentices in the program starting this fall to enhance workforce skills in automation, robotics, and industrial systems.

“At Kwik Trip, we’re proud to support innovative workforce development initiatives like Western Technical College’s new Mechatronics Technician Apprenticeship Program,” said Scott Zietlow, President and CEO of Kwik Trip. “As automation and advanced technology continues to shape our industry, programs like this are essential to develop the skilled talent we need to grow. This program is a meaningful step forward to ensure that our region remains competitive by giving our workers the skills needed in today’s industrial landscape.”

“The apprenticeship model continues to grow outside of its once traditional occupations, such as construction electrician and plumbing,” said Western President Roger Stanford. “We are excited to develop innovative ways, with help from the federal government, to get students out into the workforce quickly and more efficiently. Mechatronics continues to be a growing and exciting field that is in high demand in our area.”