Outdated or Unsupported Browser Detected
DWD's website uses the latest technology. This makes our site faster and easier to use across all devices. Unfortunatley, your browser is out of date and is not supported. An update is not required, but it is strongly recommended to improve your browsing experience. To update Internet Explorer to Microsoft Edge visit their website.

  2. Employment & Training
  3. Apprenticeship
  4. Manufacturing
Manufacturing Occupational Pathway

Occupational Pathways - Manufacturing

The manufacturing sector has grown with the use of computers, robotics, and need for green energy components. This Youth Apprenticeship occupational area focuses on three pathways:

Skills from machine work, product quality, and repair are learned in this pathway.

Manufacturing Pathways

Students can choose from three different occupational areas with options to specific pathways.

Production Pathway

Students are required to work with machines to make or assemble parts or products. There are four areas to choose from:

Production Operations Management Pathway

This pathway covers monitoring and ensuring processes and products meet specifications. There is one area to choose from:

Maintenance, Installation, and Repair Pathway

Preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of tools and equipment are learned in this pathway. There are two areas to choose from:

Occupations

Production Pathway

  • Assembler
  • Automated Manufacturing Technician
  • Calibration Technician
  • Electrical Installer and Repairer
  • Electromechanical Equipment Assembler
  • Extruding and Drawing Machine Setter/Set-Up Operator
  • Foundry Worker
  • Grinding, Lapping, and Buffing Machine Operator
  • Hand Packer and Packager
  • Hoist and Winch Operator
  • Instrument Maker
  • Large Printing Press Machine Setter and Set-Up Operator
  • Machine Operator
  • Medical Appliance Maker
  • Micro and Nano Fabrication Technicians
  • Milling Machine Setter and Set-Up Operator
  • Millwright
  • Pattern and Model Maker
  • Precision Layout Worker
  • Sheet Metal Worker
  • Solder and Brazier
  • Tool and DieMaker
  • Welder

Maintenance, Installation, and Repair Pathway

  • Biomedical Equipment Technician
  • Boilermaker
  • Communication System Installer/Repairer
  • Computer Installer/Repairer
  • Computer Maintenance Technician
  • Electrical Equipment Installer/Repairer
  • Facility Electrician
  • Industrial Electronic Installer/ Repairer/Manager
  • Industrial Machinery Mechanic
  • Industrial Maintenance Electrician
  • Industrial Maintenance Technician/Mechanic
  • Instrument Calibration and Repairer
  • Instrument Control Technician
  • Job/Fixture Designer
  • Laser Systems Technician
  • Maintenance Repairer
  • Major Appliance Repairer
  • Meter Installer/Repairer
  • Plumber, Pipe Fitter and Steam Fitter
  • Security System Installer

Average Wage

Below are some examples of careers wages in each pathway. Visit the Occupational Employer Statistics page to find average wages for a specific occupation not listed.

Assemblers and Fabricators: Average $32,410
Boilermakers: Average $58,010
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers: Average $55,580
Industrial Machinery Mechanic: Average $53,390
Milling and Planning Machine Setters: Average $43,060
Plumbers; Pipefitters; and Steamfitters: Average $68,510

Related Classes

The Department of Workforce Development recommends taking the following courses:

Classroom instruction maybe offered by qualified instructors within the school district, at another school district, a Wisconsin Technical College, a University, through virtual/online learning, and/or by the employer.

This list is not exhaustive but gives an idea of the types of classes a student needs to take for success in this field. Regional Coordinators can help with finding courses that are best for the chosen pathway and will inform students on the related instruction for each pathway. DWD also recommends outside activities/clubs for an enhanced experience such as:

Getting Started

Get started by talking to a school counselor, Youth Apprenticeship Local Coordinator, or Regional Coordinator about how to apply and obtain career materials (plans of study). Contact DWD Youth Apprenticeship Staff for general or statewide program information.

Learn more about the bridging program between YA and Registered Apprenticeship.

Manufacturing Occupational Pathway