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  2. News Room
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Tony Evers, Governor
Amy Pechacek, Secretary

Department of Workforce Development
Secretary's Office
201 E. Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707-7946
Telephone: (608) 266-3131
Fax: (608) 266-1784
Email: sec@dwd.wisconsin.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2024
CONTACT: DWD Communications
CommunicationsOffice@dwd.wisconsin.gov

Schools Encouraged to Apply for $504,894 in Wisconsin Fast Forward Technical Education
Equipment Training Grants

MADISON – The Department of Workforce Development (DWD) today announced that a new round of Wisconsin Fast Forward grants is available to help prepare students for high-demand careers.

Up to $504,894 in grant funds are available to Wisconsin school districts through the Expanded Wisconsin Fast Forward program. The funds support projects to train students to use advanced manufacturing tools and equipment. Award amounts will range from $5,000 to $50,000 and will be available for school districts to ready high school students in technical fields to ensure Wisconsin has a skilled workforce for the future.

"As industries in Wisconsin continue to advance and grow, there's a critical need to assure that we have a prepared workforce with the skills to meet future needs," DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek said. "These technical education equipment grants connect students with opportunities to learn to use manufacturing equipment that prepares them for in-demand careers."

These grants reimburse school districts for the costs of purchasing and installing technical education equipment used in vocational training and technical education in advanced manufacturing fields. Funds also cover the cost for equipment operation software and instructional materials. Grants support technical education and reduce higher education costs through dual enrollment credits, industry-endorsed certificates, and technical endorsements on high school diplomas.

Applications must be sent by 3 p.m. CST on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.

Find additional information or download an application on the Wisconsin Fast Forward Program website.

ABOUT DWD

Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.