From Youth Apprentice to Full-Time Employee

Pewaukee, WIS. – Christopher Semega is a recent graduate of Sussex Hamilton High School who describes himself as a “hands-on learner.” While enrolled in the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Youth Program offered through the Waukesha-Ozaukee-Washington Workforce Development Board (WOW WDB), he was identified by his Case Manager as eligible to participate in a Youth Apprenticeship.

The WIA Youth Program provides participants with an opportunity to enroll in a Youth Apprenticeship, a Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development program, which integrates school-based and work-based learning to instruct students in employability and occupational skills defined by Wisconsin industries. Program elements for a one-year Youth Apprenticeship include 450 hours at the employer worksite with 180 hours of related classroom instruction. Those who participate in a two-year Youth Apprenticeship will complete 900 hours at the employer worksite with 360 hours of related classroom instruction. Equally as important, the Youth Apprenticeship Program provides identified employers the opportunity to train and mentor a young adult through what may be his/her first work experience as they simultaneously enroll in the academic classes needed to meet high school graduation requirements. WOW WDB President Francisco Sanchez shares, “the traditional way of teaching is not always successful with every student. The Youth Apprenticeship Program provides an excellent opportunity for motivated young adults to learn while gaining hands-on experience as they launch their career.”

Christopher’s Youth Apprenticeship began during his senior year in high school with Matzel Manufacturing Company in Milwaukee. He found ways to successfully balance school and work to complete the Youth Apprenticeship, and through hard work and an eagerness to learn, earned a Certificate of Occupational Proficiency issued by the State of Wisconsin. Matzel Manufacturing President Wayne Matthiesen shares, “we are proud to say Chris has continued employment with Matzel Manufacturing at a full-time level with additional apprenticeship training planned for his future. The Youth Apprenticeship Program creates a smooth transition of students to the workforce as they build solid relationships with coworkers and mentors. We are looking forward to continued participation in the Youth Apprenticeship Program to build our workforce of tomorrow.”

Employers who are interested in learning more about the Youth Apprenticeship Program or additional Youth Programs offered through the WOW WDB should contact Lisa Roohr by phone at 262-695-7894 or via email at lroohr@wctc.edu.