Investing in the Next Generation of Manufacturing Leaders

Addressing a need for a skilled manufacturing workforce in Northeast Wisconsin, Gene Haas Foundation is gifting NWTC $500,000 to strengthen the talent and future of the growing industry.

“Combining the innovation from a world-class industry leader in CNC technology with the manufacturing power of Northeast Wisconsin is a great opportunity for NWTC,” said Dr. Kristen Raney, NWTC president. “This partnership with Gene Haas Foundation will provide financial support for our students and resources to ensure our community continues to thrive.”

This grant donation will help build a long-term pipeline of students pursuing careers in manufacturing by funding financial aid, academic coaching, recruitment, and many more crucial academic needs. This is one of the largest donations in NWTC’s 111-year history. 

“The Gene Haas naming grant program was developed nine years ago to serve as an endorsement of the best CNC training programs in North America and now has expanded to Europe as well,” said Kathy Looman, director of education of Gene Haas Foundation. “We are very impressed with the team and level of training at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College and proud to honor them with this grant.” 

Empowering Industry Leaders of the Future 
The Gene Haas Foundation is a private foundation of Gene Haas, founder and owner of Haas Automation, Inc. The Haas Formula One Team and Stewart-Haas Racing Team of NSCAR have supported the needs of local communities and manufacturing training programs throughout North America and beyond. 

Partnering with the very best CNC training programs in the world, the Foundation has provided more than $175 million and helped expand the access to high-quality manufacturing technology training worldwide. 

Serving a Growing Need in Talent Development 
Research from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue found that Wisconsin has between 8,000 to 10,000 available manufacturing jobs at any point in time, which have nearly doubled since 2021. 

"Our manufacturing graduates are earning salaries between $45,000 and $70,000," said Dr. Amy Kox, NWTC Dean of Trades & Engineering Technologies. "The need for skilled workers in these in-demand, high-paying career fields has never been higher."

NWTC offers 34 certificates, technical diplomas, associate degrees, and apprenticeships through its Manufacturing programs. The College continues to expand course offerings to incorporate cutting-edge technologies and address emerging careers fields in its curriculum. Some of its newest additions include Cybersecurity Considerations for Industrial Controls Certificate, Mechanical CAD Fundamentals Certificate, and Shipbuilder Welder Apprenticeship. 

Learn more about NWTC’s Manufacturing program or other rewarding careers: nwtc.edu