Promise Bakken Marketing & Communications Director | Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce
Promise Bakken Marketing & Communications Director | Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce
A record number of apprentices from Mid-State Technical College have been awarded the Tools of the Trade scholarships by Ascendium. This year, 111 apprentices from the college received $2,000 each to support their training-related expenses, including the purchase of equipment, tools, clothing, tuition, and other necessities.
Apprenticeships offer a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction, providing an alternative pathway to gainful employment in high-demand fields. Over 12 years, Ascendium has granted more than $6 million in scholarships through its program. The eligibility criteria for the scholarship include enrollment in both fall and spring semesters, financial need, and participation in designated construction or industrial trades.
Cole Schmidt, Mid-State’s Apprenticeship Advisor and Pathways Navigator, shared insights on the importance of the partnership with Ascendium: “As a former apprentice, I understand firsthand the challenges of balancing travel, coursework and long hours—and how those demands can affect success. I have immense respect for the dedication Mid-State’s apprentices show in pursuing their careers and am grateful for our partnership with Ascendium in supporting, funding and advancing the future of the skilled trades."
The college works in collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards and the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS). Their programs aim to address employer needs while equipping apprentices with the skills necessary for the workforce. According to WTCS's Apprenticeship Completion report, individuals who completed their programs in 2022–2023 reported significant earnings, with a median annual salary of $96,733. Furthermore, 96 percent of those surveyed continued to work in the state after completing their training.
Mid-State offers various apprenticeship programs, such as Arborist, Carpenter, Construction Electrician, Machinist, and others.
For more information about apprenticeship offerings at Mid-State Technical College, individuals are encouraged to visit mstc.edu/apprenticeship or contact Cole Schmidt. Additional details about Ascendium can be found at ascendiumeducation.org.
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