Representing Wisconsin State Assembly District 93

As Chairman of the Assembly Workforce Development Committee, I continue to work with my colleagues to find innovative ways to address the workforce challenges facing our state. One of the areas that we continue to look at is how we can help those looking for work access the skills and training that they need to continue their careers. One way we have addressed this issue is to educate and engage with students about what the workforce looks like once they graduate and to provide them information about the various pathways available to them.

That is why each year, February is designated as “Career and Technical Education Month.” This month is used to raise awareness of technical education in our state for students and parents and to let them know about this option. For example, one of the advantages to a Technical College educational career is that a student can earn an industryrecognized credential while earning wages in that same field. This is a popular option for students, which is why I continue to support and co-author legislation expanding Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship and Registered Apprenticeship programs.

These advantages also show up in the technical college’s graduation metrics. In the 2020 Wisconsin Technical Education System Graduates report, 91% of graduates were employed within six months of their graduation with an average salary of $44,000 for all degrees with some jobs earning more than an average of $60,000. Additionally, 9 in 10 graduates live and work in Wisconsin, keeping them here as they grow their career and family.

Having three of the state’s Technical Colleges near my Assembly District, I encourage everyone that is looking for a new career or a next step to look at the opportunities that these impeccable institutions offer. If you are a high school student, I encourage you to take advantage of the Academic and Career Planning legislation that I supported which provides students access to career exploration tools at an early age, so you can begin thinking about what your career skill interests and talents might be before graduation, not after. In addition, if you are a junior or senior, consider signing up for a youth apprenticeship program to gain more job experience prior to graduation.

I look forward to continuing to promote the success of the technical education options in our state which are essential in helping people not only explore a career, but also gain the skills and training that they need to get and keep their career right here in Wisconsin.

State Rep. Warren Petryk