Blackhawk graduates 15 students through an Accelerated Industrial Maintenance (AIM) class

Back row (left to right): John Dorcey (instructor), Ana Domingez-Antonio, Lilly Dresek, Alivia Diaz, Preston Merrill, Cade Vogt, Jack Fischer, Ryan Welte, Brent Grauerholz, Bryan Coddington (instructor), James Raychel; Second row: Logan Guenther, Jaiden Stricklin, Tobias Tews, Leo Koerth, Griffon Rippl, Mason Kane (standing)

Fifteen students graduated Friday, July 21, from the Accelerated Industrial Maintenance (AIM) program made possible by a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD).

“This graduating class is an example of the success we have seen through Gov. Tony Evers’s Workforce Advancement Initiative. On-the-job skills training – programs just like this – are critical to keep our workforce moving ahead and economic recovery going full speed ahead. We are so thankful for you, and we are so proud of you,” Jennifer Sereno, DWD Assistant Secretary, said at the graduation, which was held at Blackhawk’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Center in Milton.

In partnership with Blackhawk Technical College and the Stateline Manufacturing Alliance, the Accelerated Industrial Maintenance program was facilitated through the Southwest Wisconsin Workforce Development Board. SWWDB received a $1.6 million grant through the Evers initiative and administered through the DWD last fall to implement several projects to help assist and improve the workforce needs in several critical areas, including industrial maintenance.

Ana Dominguez, a Junior at Rock University High School in Janesville, was one of 15 students who completed the AIM program. Most the students were in high school or recently graduated.

“Being in the AIM program was a wonderful opportunity where throughout this experience I have gained knowledge in many areas of manufacturing. I also developed skills like critical thinking, managing time, recognizing and following safety standards,” she said. “Not only are we working on machines, but we are gaining knowledge for our future. Another great part of the program are the tours of companies where we got to see firsthand the career opportunities in manufacturing.”

The 4-week AIM summer program was comprised of Blackhawk courses that provided a foundation skillset for those seeking career opportunities in industrial maintenance and technology. The program can be applied toward a Maintenance Technical Diploma from Blackhawk. The program also included career exploration opportunities at local manufacturers.

“I applaud you for your commitment, the skills you’ve gained,” Greg Phillips, Dean of Manufacturing, Apprenticeship, Technology and Transportation, told the graduates. “Our partners need you; our community needs you. It is programs like this – and graduates like you – that are the key to making a difference.”

Thank you to all of our partners who made this program possible, including Westlake, Stateline Manufacturing Alliance - SMA, Stainless Tank & Equipment, Southwest Wisconsin Workforce Development Board, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, Scot Forge, Blain's Farm & Fleet, Baker Manufacturing Company, LLC, Charter Next Generation - Milton, The Morse Group, Frito-Lay, Mid State Concrete, Stoughton Trailers and DSB Technologies.

2023 AIM Class

• Alivia Diaz - Rock University High School
• Ana Dominguez-Antonio - Rock University High School
• Lilliana Drazek-Loosier - Rock University High School
• Jack Fischer - Beloit Turner
• Brent Gauerholz - Blackhawk Technical College
• Logan Guenther - Rock University High School
• Masen Kane - Rock University High School
• Leo Koerth - Edgerton High School
• Preston Merrill - Beloit Turner
• James Raychel - Rock University High School
• Griffon Rippl - Beloit Turner
• Jaiden Stricklin - Parker
• Tobias Tews - Beloit Turner
• Cade Vogt - Rock River Charter
• Ryan Welte - Hononegah