Rockwell Automation, a prominent provider of industrial automation and digitalization solutions, has joined forces with Prosperity Southwest Regional Career Pathways and the Richland Center school district to introduce an innovative program at their Richland Center facility. This initiative aims to offer high school juniors and seniors a valuable opportunity to delve into careers within the manufacturing sector.
The primary objective of this collaboration is to tackle the rising workforce challenges within the Prosperity Southwest region. By fostering this partnership, Rockwell Automation seeks to play an active role in nurturing a local workforce pipeline tailored to the manufacturing industry's needs by using the Regional Career Pathway “map” to guide students to their desired occupation.
With the demand for skilled workers in manufacturing on the rise, Rockwell Automation is taking proactive measures to address the skills gap. Through the establishment of this pathway, the company is committed to nurturing the potential of young individuals while simultaneously meeting the community's workforce demands.
Matt Kepler, Rockwell’s first student employee to come through the program via Youth Apprenticeship says “I have gained knowledge working in manufacturing that I didn’t think I would have in high school. I have been given new opportunities to succeed and the work is challenging, which I enjoy.”
Glen Brunner, Quality and ROS Manager at Rockwell Automation shared. “It is critical that we come together as communities to develop plans to highlight the positive aspects of manufacturing tied to the growth of our residents and communities in Southwest Wisconsin. Together, we can change the face of manufacturing in Southwest Wisconsin through partnerships with K-12 and higher education, workforce development, economic development boards, and other regional groups. By uniting forces, we can share ideas, work through challenges, and grow the industry.”
We look forward to our continued partnership at Rockwell and beyond.