EC Wisconsin News

On March 7, Career EXCELerate Wisconsin reached a significant milestone with 200 participants gaining employment. The program, started in 2022, provides educational certificates through a partnership with Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW), Fox Valley Technical College, and Rawhide Youth Services. It is funded by a Workforce Innovation Grant from Wisconsin.

"Education and training programs like Career EXCELerate create opportunities for people to get skills they need for a good job, and we're pleased to see the program's remarkable success," said Amy Pechacek, Secretary of the Department of Workforce Development. The program has surpassed its goal of serving 460 individuals by 150, reaching a total of 610. Also, the aim for a 55% one-year employment retention rate was exceeded, achieving 74%.

The grant has been extended by one year, ending in June 2026, and the program will soon accept all unemployed or underemployed individuals. Chris Hess of Goodwill NCW highlighted the program’s success in building skills that lead to stable employment and financial stability, stating, "The success of the program has surpassed our expectations."

Career EXCELerate offers free, comprehensive career training in in-demand fields, targeting individuals struggling to advance professionally. Sam Rikkers from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation noted the program's holistic approach, saying it addresses mental health needs which help participants succeed.

Educational tracks include Certified Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Tech, Manufacturing Technician, Welding Fundamentals, Professional Truck Driving - Class A, Retail Essentials, and Certified Direct Care Professional, among others. Enrollment is ongoing, and further details can be found on CareerEXCELerateWI.org.

For employers interested in partnering to recruit candidates or for potential participants seeking certificates, the program offers ways to engage and apply. Career EXCELerate is funded by the U.S. Department of the Treasury through the Wisconsin Workforce Innovation Grant Program.