NWTC Advances in Department of Education Challenge

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NWTC named a finalist in the U.S. Department of Education Rethink Adult Ed Challenge

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College has been named a finalist in the $750,000 U.S. Department of Education Rethink Adult Ed Challenge, a national competition to advance pre-apprenticeships. Participating in this challenge gives the college an opportunity to explore the development of additional learning and training experiences for adults who wish to gain new skills and career opportunities.

Apprenticeships serve as pathways into careers across industries. Unfortunately, many adult learners face barriers to enrolling in apprenticeship programs. Pre-apprenticeships break down those barriers by equipping adult learners with the knowledge and skills they need to enter and succeed in apprenticeships – which can expand access to rewarding careers across Northeast Wisconsin.

"We are excited to advance to Stage 2. This challenge will provide an opportunity to collaborate with the Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance and other industry partners to build new mentorship opportunities for the purposes of employability skills development," said Kathryn Rogalski, NWTC vice president of learning.

Out of the 250 program applicants nationwide, NWTC is one of 95 selected to advance to Stage 2. In this next stage, finalists will participate in a virtual accelerator and develop program proposals. Five winners will be announced in summer 2021.