News Summary
Governor Tony Evers has unveiled approximately $10.3 million in grants aimed at improving employment opportunities for Wisconsin residents. The funds will support 10 regional workforce development organizations, assisting over 1,400 workers with job placement, skill enhancement, and increased earnings. This initiative, part of the Worker Advancement Initiative, aligns with Evers’s focus on workforce challenges and introduces new programs, including a teacher apprenticeship pilot and a Healthcare Workforce Task Force, despite recent legislative setbacks that may affect future workforce funding.
Madison, Wisconsin – Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) have announced approximately $10.3 million in grants aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for residents across the state. These funds will support 10 regional workforce development organizations, assisting more than 1,400 workers in finding jobs, improving their skills, and increasing their earnings.
The funding is part of the second round of the Worker Advancement Initiative (WAI), a program launched in 2021 to provide resources and training to those seeking employment. This initiative is part of a broader Workforce Solutions Initiative, which relies on federal relief funds and has already assisted over 33,000 Wisconsinites since its inception.
Projects funded by the WAI are designed to offer participants a range of services, including paid work-based learning opportunities, classroom training, and programs aimed at overcoming barriers to employment such as child care and transportation issues. The first round of the WAI targeted over 2,300 individuals in need of support, setting a solid foundation for ongoing workforce development efforts.
DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek emphasized the need to address employment barriers while expanding training in growing fields. This aligns with Governor Evers’s declaration of 2024 as the “Year of the Worker” in Wisconsin, underscoring a new focus on tackling workforce challenges and fostering innovative workforce strategies.
Additionally, the Governor’s plans for the upcoming year include the introduction of a teacher apprenticeship pilot program and the establishment of a Task Force on the Healthcare Workforce, along with creating an Office dedicated to enhancing employee engagement and retention. These initiatives reflect a commitment to developing a resilient workforce that meets the needs of both individuals and employers in Wisconsin.
However, it is important to note that recent legislative decisions made by Republican committees have resulted in the removal of several proposals related to workforce development from the Governor’s 2025-27 budget. This may impact the future expansion of these initiatives and their intended benefits for job seekers.
In conjunction with the funding announcement, Julie Cayo has been appointed as the new President & CEO of Employ Milwaukee, effective June 11, 2025. With over 20 years of experience in urban planning, economic development, and workforce strategy, Cayo is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the workforce development system in the region. Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson has expressed support for Cayo’s appointment, recognizing her familiarity with community needs and a proven track record in workforce enhancement.
Employ Milwaukee is focused on enhancing the workforce development system through strategic planning, coordination, and collaboration with community stakeholders. As Wisconsin continues to navigate through economic recovery and workforce challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, initiatives like the WAI are critical in ensuring that residents receive the support they require to succeed in the job market.
Overall, the new grant funding announced by Governor Evers represents a significant investment in the future of Wisconsin’s workforce, aiming to create pathways to employment for those in need and fostering a skilled workforce equipped to meet the demands of the modern economy.
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MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
