State awards $210,000 workforce grant to WATEA

A Wausau-based organization that serves the north central Wisconsin region, including Merrill, has received a significant state workforce development grant to expand transportation industry training.
The Wisconsin Automotive & Truck Education Association (WATEA) was awarded $210,398 through the state’s Wisconsin Fast Forward program, the Department of Workforce Development announced recently. The grant is part of a larger $2.4 million package awarded to 17 employers statewide.
WATEA, based in Wausau, will partner with Napa AutoTech and regional employers to train 70 entry-level and current automotive and truck technicians through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on learning. Trainees could see an hourly wage increase of at least 45 cents upon completion.
WATEA brings together transportation businesses, educational institutions, community organizations, and individuals to create workforce solutions for the transportation industry.
Local shops like Brickner’s Park City in Merrill are already eyeing the training opportunities. Owner Jim Brickner said the association has a solid track record. “WATEA does a great job and has offered a lot of training,” Brickner said. He added that day-to-day demands have made scheduling a challenge. “We just have been so busy in our shop I haven’t been able to pull a young tech to send for the training,” Brickner said, though he expects that to change soon. “We probably will be sending Christian Gilbert to some in the fall,” he said.

DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek said the grants are designed to connect workers with skills that lead to sustainable careers. “These partnerships provide training to bridge the gap between the supply and demand for skilled workers to help address Wisconsin’s workforce needs,” Pechacek said.
The Wisconsin Fast Forward program has operated since 2013. To date, the state has awarded more than $57 million to support 507 workforce training projects benefiting more than 31,000 workers across the state.
Grant recipients must meet minimum performance benchmarks, including ensuring 85% of participants complete training, 65% gain employment or a promotion, and 75% of eligible trainees earn certifications.