DWD Awards Nearly $1 Million in Equipment Grants to 19 School Districts
September 4, 2025
The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) has awarded $998,114 in Wisconsin Fast Forward grants to 19 school districts throughout the state. The Advanced Manufacturing Technical Education Equipment grants will benefit 4,223 students and help address the state's skilled workforce shortage by supporting schools as they prepare students for quality jobs.
School districts will use the funding to expand career pathway options by upgrading technical education training equipment and facilities. Projects include modernizing and constructing welding labs, acquiring bioengineering equipment, and launching robotics programs.
"Fast Forward grants prepare our future workforce for careers in high-demand, high-skill industries," said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. "The state-of-the-art equipment, including robotic welders, laser cutters, 3D printers, and other high-tech tools, will enable schools to provide coursework that aligns with industry standards and strengthen our state's workforce now and into the future."
