Advanced manufacturing certificate pilot rolls out at Generac, GE

Second Chance Partners for Education (SCPFE) – in partnership with the Kettle Moraine School District, GE’s Waukesha gas engines (General Electric), Generac Power Systems, Inc. (Generac) and the Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) – launched an advanced manufacturing certificate pilot on Jan. 22.

The pilot, the Advanced Manufacturing Certificate Pathway, is a transformational education experience that leverages partnerships among local businesses, local high schools and the local technical college along with SCPFE. The pilot is designed to provide students who have an interest in technical careers with the ability to earn transcripted credits at post-secondary schools and valuable work experience. 

The pilot will be located at the Generac’s facility in Eagle, Wisconsin, and General Electric’s facility in Waukesha, Wisconsin, and will initially serve 12 students – seven juniors and five seniors – from the Kettle Moraine School District. 

"We are committed to ensuring our graduates are prepared for college and career success in a wide range of occupations,” says Pat Deklotz, Kettle Moraine School District Superintendent. “This pilot exposes students to career pathways inherent in manufacturing, including interests such as welding, fabrication, and manufacturing processes to advanced degree fields such as mechanical and electrical engineering." 

Since 2000, SCPFE has partnered local businesses and education to provide students with an integrated learning experience that links academic standards with real-world applications. The pilot is an extension of the organization’s foundational tenants:

• Providing immersive learning environments within businesses 

• Partnering with the manufacturing industry and educational institutions

• Instilling academic rigor, a strong work ethic and confidence in students

• Preparing students for meaningful careers and productive lives

“This pilot allows us to explore ways that we can leverage our model to help more students and be a greater asset for the industry and regions we serve,” says SCPFE President, Stephanie Borowski. 

Read more about the pilot