Workforce Wins in Wisconsin

Free training, funding and face-to-face talks with legislators creating manufacturing momentum

Workforce development is a cornerstone of economic growth in West Central Wisconsin. As employers across the region face increasing demand for skilled workers, training and education are necessary to help manufacturers remain competitive while creating high-quality career opportunities for residents. Momentum West and the Manufacturing Alliance of Western Wisconsin are proud to support the following items critical to align talent with employer needs in the region.

Legislators meet manufacturers where they are

The organizations are hosting one more Manufacturing & Legislative Summit in February. The summits offer legislators a deeper understanding of Wisconsin’s manufacturing landscape and  manufacturers the opportunity to share input on key issues impacting:

• State competitiveness
• Supply chains
• Workforce development
• Automation & innovation

📆 Monday, February 16, 2026
⏰ 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 UW-Stout, Menomonie
🍽️ Lunch provided
✉️ RSVP: rep.armstrong@legis.wisconsin.gov

Workforce Advancement Training Grants

One impactful workforce solution available to employers in West Central Wisconsin is the Workforce Advancement Training (WAT) Grant, administered by the Wisconsin Technical College System. WAT Grants help businesses offset the cost of training incumbent workers by partnering with local technical colleges to deliver customized, employer-driven instruction.

Application Deadline: May 1

Employers can use WAT Grants to support training in technical skills, safety certifications, leadership development, and productivity improvements. The training allows companies to adapt to evolving technologies while improving employee retention, thereby leading to the region's long-term economic vitality.

Northwood Technical College will host two virtual sessions on the WAT Grants:

📆 Wednesday, February 18 | ⏰ 12:00 p.m. | 💻 Meeting Link
📆 Tuesday, February 24 | ⏰ 8:00 a.m. | 💻 Meeting Link

Northwood Tech develops talent!

Northwood Technical College is a critical asset in building West Central Wisconsin’s manufacturing workforce, offering programs that combine hands-on skills, industry credentials, and career pathways for in-demand jobs.

With the $9.8M HOMES project, ALL COURSES ARE FREE FOR PARTICIPANTS!

The following are open for registration now:

Injection Mold (Plastic) Certified Pre-Apprenticeship

Plastic components for various uses are produced using injection molding machinery, which requires technicians with the knowledge and capability to set up, calibrate, and operate them. 

The Injection Mold certified pre-apprenticeship training will provide the technical and soft skills to prepare for entry into the Injection Mold Set-up registered apprenticeship, through 108 hours of technical instruction, hands-on experience, and employability skills. Those completing the course will earn OSHA 10 (General Industry) and CPR/AED/Basic First Aid essentials, as well as a $500 stipend.

🗓 Dates: March 23 – May 28, 2026
⏰ Class Times: Tues – Thurs, 4–8 p.m.
📍 Location: St. Croix Manufacturing Skills Center, St. Croix Central H.S., Hammond, WI
🔒 Eligibility: 17+ years old
⚡ Register by: March 16, 2026

Industry 4.0 – Advanced Manufacturing Training

Today’s manufacturing landscape demands highly specialized workers. The Industry 4.0 - Advanced Manufacturing Training course provides hands-on experience, troubleshooting skills, and industry-recognized knowledge on state-of-the-art equipment, making participants highly competitive.

Spring 2026 courses open for registration now include:

📍 Maple Wood Cottages, St. Croix Falls, WI

Basic Pneumatics Basics 1 (18 hrs)
🗓 Tuesday/Wednesday, March 17 - 31; 12:30–4:30 p.m.

PLC 3 – Math & Troubleshooting (24 hrs)
🗓 Wednesday, March 25 - April 29: 5–9 p.m.

Introduction to AC/DC (24 hrs)
🗓 Tuesday/Wednesday, April 7 - 22; 12:30–4:30 p.m.

Automation 1 – Control Logic (24 hrs)
🗓 Tuesday/Wednesday, April 28 - May 13; 12:30–4:30 p.m.

Introduction to Measurement Tools (12 hrs)
🗓 Tuesday/Wednesday, May 19 - 26; 12:30–4:30 p.m.

📍 Northwood Tech, New Richmond campus

Maintenance PLC – Introduction (24 hrs)
🗓 Friday, March 27 - May 8; 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

📍 St. Croix Manufacturing Skills Center, Hammond, WI

Automation Motor Control (24 hrs)
🗓 Tuesday/Wednesday, March 17 - April 8,  1–4 p.m.

FANUC HandlingTool Operation & Programming (33 hrs)
🗓 Thursday, March 19 - May 28, 1–4 p.m.

AC Drives (24 hrs)
🗓 Tuesday/Wednesday, May 5 - May 27,  1–4 p.m.

Manufacturing is a strength in West Central Wisconsin

A talented, motivated workforce is necessary for the current and future industry needs of West Central Wisconsin. Connect with other employers, educators, and workforce partners to advance the region today - and contact Momentum West and the Manufacturing Alliance of Western Wisconsin for any assistance you need!