VJS, headquartered in Waukesha County, is a long-time member of the Waukesha County Business Alliance. The Alliance develops the future workforce through partnerships with educational institutions and businesses within the community. VJS is actively involved in these business-education partnership programs created by the Alliance in partnership with the Waukesha County Center for Growth. Programs like Schools2SkillsTM expose middle and high school students to manufacturing careers, while tours of the Waukesha County Technical College Integrated Manufacturing Center provide insights for employers on the programs available to train their workforce.
The 2022 WCBA Annual report states that Schools2SkillsTM is their most notable in program. In 2022, they hosted 16 tours, giving 500 students from 17 schools a chance to walk inside manufacturers and Waukesha County Technical College. Their efforts were amplified through their Experience the Trades Expo which showcased 35 construction and manufacturing companies for nearly 1,500 students from approximately 20 schools in the region.
We are proud to support WCBA’s mission to drive economic growth in Waukesha County and beyond through their advocate, develop, engage, and grow approach. Their initiatives and programs not only expose future talent to career opportunities within their communities, but also introduces them to educational opportunities beyond a traditional four-year college, like WCTC. A Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) 2021-2022 Fact Book Student Data report shows that enrollment across the WTCS increased by 10 % in the 2021-2022 academic year. This statistic reinforces the importance of businesses owners and educational institutions partnering to develop the next generation of the workforce.
VJS looks forward to continuing to foster our relationship with WCBA and contribute to building the talent pipeline through continued outreach in participation in their programs, HR Roundtables, Professional Women’s Network and through service on their board by Rick Andritsch, Partner, and Vice President of Business Development at VJS.
“The relationship between VJS and the WCBA is remarkable! Thank you for all you do to support Waukesha County and our region.” said Robyn Ludtke, Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Workforce at Waukesha County Business Alliance.