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  2. News Room
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Tony Evers, Governor
Amy Pechacek, Secretary

Department of Workforce Development
Secretary's Office
201 E. Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707-7946
Telephone: (608) 266-3131
Fax: (608) 266-1784
Email: sec@dwd.wisconsin.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 25, 2025
CONTACT: DWD Communications
CommunicationsOffice@dwd.wisconsin.gov

School Districts Encouraged to Apply for $1 Million in Wisconsin Fast Forward Technical Education Equipment Training Grants

MADISON – The Department of Workforce Development (DWD) today announced that a new round of grant funding is available to Wisconsin school districts to help train students for the future and fill critical workforce needs. Up to $1,021,363 million in grant funds is available through the Expanded Wisconsin Fast Forward program.

The funds support projects to train students to use advanced manufacturing tools and equipment. Award amounts will range from $5,000 to $50,000 and will be available for school districts to ready high school students in technical fields to ensure Wisconsin has a skilled workforce for the future.

"Funding for advanced technical education equipment helps connect students with opportunities to train for in-demand careers." said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. "These grants ensure that we have a prepared workforce with the skills to meet future needs as industries in our state continue to grow."

Technical Education Equipment Training grants reimburse school districts for the costs of buying and installing technical education equipment used for vocational training and technical education in advanced manufacturing and construction fields. Funds also cover the cost for equipment operation software and instructional materials. Grants benefit students and their families by reducing higher education costs through dual enrollment credits, industry-endorsed certificates, and technical endorsements on high school diplomas.

Applications must be emailed by 3 p.m. CST on Thursday, May 15, 2025.

Find additional information or download an application on the Wisconsin Fast Forward Program website.

ABOUT DWD

Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.