Wisconsin Workers Win Program to train workers for hire

MEQUON -- The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development is closer to starting the Wisconsin Workers Win, or W3 Program, and a Mequon company says they want to be a part of it.

Department of Workforce Development Secretary Reggie Newson visited GenMet Corporation - a Mequon metal fabricator.

The W3 Program enables Unemployment Insurance claimants to participate in a limited-term training placement at an employer. The program will be open to residents on a pilot basis in three workforce development areas in Wisconsin and will serve approximately 500 state residents.

In addition to receiving UI benefits, participating trainees will receive a $75 weekly stipend to defray costs associated with participating in training. The stipend and continued UI benefits will save costs for participating employers that would otherwise compensate trainees with wages during the training period.

"Through a pilot program, and a process, we get those individuals trained with employers that have job openings, with the end game being they're trained, and they develop a skill set and the employer hires them," Newson said.

Governor Scott Walker signed the W3 Program into law last month and the program will serve 500 workers over the next year.

CLICK HERE for more information on Wisconsin's W3 Program via the Department of Workforce Development's website.

Additionally, the 2012 Milwaukee Manufacturing Career Expo will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Thursday, May 10th at the State Fair Expo Center. Job seekers must register for the expo, and can do so by CLICKING HERE. (Click "Find a Job" and complete the necessary information.)

“If you’re a job seeker looking for a new opportunity, sign up today for the Career Expo and meet manufacturers from the Milwaukee area that have jobs to fill,” Secretary Newson said in a statement. “This is a great chance to meet directly with employers and to demonstrate that you are work-ready.”

Manufacturers have until April 30th to register for the Expo.

CLICK HERE for more information on the 2012 Milwaukee Manufacturing Career Expo.