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Workforce Partners

Blackhawk Technical College is proud to collaborate with an incredible network of local partners dedicated to strengthening the workforce in Rock and Green counties.

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Spotlight On Our Partners

From high school apprenticeship programs to cutting-edge training for adult learners, our partnerships with businesses and community organizations are transforming lives and industries.

In this series, we'll shine a light on:

  • Local employers shaping tomorrow’s workforce
  • Community organizations fostering career development
  • Educational programs bridging the gap between talent and opportunity

A new partner will be highlighted each month through 2025.

Participants in the Rock County Externship program in Blackhawk's courtyard

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24 Apprentices at Blackhawk Receive Tools of the Trade Scholarships

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Two dozen Blackhawk construction and industrial trade apprentices have received $2,000 Tools of the Trade scholarships from Ascendium to use toward the purchase of equipment, tools, clothing, tuition and more.

Apprenticeships are training programs that provide learners with on-the-job experience along with classroom instruction. Blackhawk offers eight apprenticeship programs, including in Industrial Electrician, Electrician (JAC), Electrician (ABC), Maintenance Technician, Mechatronics, Machinist, HVAC and Welding. Many apprentices complete their programs and secure employment with businesses in Rock and Green counties.

This year, Ascendium awarded 771 scholarships to apprentices across the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) through its Tools of the Trade Scholarship Program for a total of $1,542,000. Apprentices are eligible to apply for a scholarship if they are enrolled and receiving credit for both fall and spring semesters, are enrolled in an eligible construction or industrial trade, and demonstrate a financial need.

“We’re pleased to support a record number of WTCS apprentices this year through our Tools of the Trade Scholarship Program,” said Brett Lindquist, vice president of strategic communications at Ascendium. “At Ascendium, we’re focused on removing barriers that prevent people from achieving their academic and career goals. The scholarship alleviates some of their financial stress, allowing them to focus on their apprenticeship.”

Congratulations to the following Blackhawk apprentices:

  • Trevor Bierman
  • Justin Blakey
  • Dylan Block
  • Joseph Brown
  • Joshua Brown
  • Brian Davis
  • Zachary Duncan
  • Michael Easton
  • Drew Eppihimer
  • Shawn Faubel
  • Calvin Hallmark
  • Henry Helland
  • Trenton Hiller
  • Richard Karbash
  • Michael Krehoff
  • Taylor Kress
  • Ryan Lovell
  • Bryce Minor
  • Allen Munns
  • Tyler Neblock
  • Nathaniel Payton
  • Daniel Severson
  • Weston Simpson
  • Hunter Van Wyhe

Learn more about Blackhawk's apprenticeship programs

About Ascendium

Ascendium Education Group is committed to making education and training beyond high school a reality for more people. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we fund initiatives across the U.S. that help learners from low-income backgrounds achieve upward mobility; provide student and employee success solutions to colleges and businesses; invest in education-focused innovations to improve learner outcomes; and provide information, tools and counseling to help millions of borrowers successfully repay their federal student loans. While we have many roles, we have one goal — elevating opportunity by creating a world where everyone can rise to their highest potential. To learn more, visit ascendiumeducation.org.

For More Information

For questions about our Workforce Partner Spotlights of more information, contact us at (608) 757-7623 or businessdevelopment@blackhawk.edu.