G-E-T youth apprenticeship program ready to expand

The Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau youth apprenticeship program will be expanding in the next school year as the district purchased cutting edge technology for the technical education department. 

Working collaboratively with area businesses, the district purchased a computer numeric controlled (CNC) heavy machinery lathe, similar to those used in the work force. A simulator can project on to other devices or be projected, allowing more students to watch. Students would be creating products identical to what their employer would hire them to make after they graduate.

CNC programming also provides an avenue to connect technical learning with science, technology, engineering and math courses as the secondary level.

To purchase the equipment, the Wisconsin Retired Educators’ Association awarded tech ed teachers Aaron Ottum and Lance Walker and business manager/grant writer Matt Wenthe with a grant for $2,000.

The youth apprenticeship program benefits students by offering potential dual-credit attainment and industry recognized credential and the opportunity to bridge  high school youth apprenticeship program with a registered apprenticeship high school.  

The students are learning the specific skills that employers are searching for in candidates for technical careers that pay well.