MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - Gov. Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (WDW) announced that 4,637 high school students across the state will be prepared with advanced manufacturing training for jobs in high-demand because of the Wisconsin Fast Forward Program.

Currently the Wisconsin Forward grant from the WDW is $408,123 for schools statewide. The grant focuses on training students in future paths such as: robotics, welding, plasma cutting, 3D printing, drones, and more.

The grant reimburses schools who purchase of the materials and the installation of education equipment for vocational training and technical education in advanced manufacturing fields including the equipment of: computer numerical control machines, robotic welders, fiber laser cutting machines, 3D printers, and more.

High school students will train in these careers while obtaining dual enrollment credits, industry-endorsed certificates, and technical endorsements on high school diplomas.

The awards announced Tuesday are:

Wilmot Union High School District, Kenosha County | $12,212

Using grant funds to purchase a Snap-On Precision Measuring Certification Kit providing students with an industry-recognized certification for precision measuring tools in manufacturing.

Two Rivers Public School District, Manitowoc County | $12,630

Using grant funds for a Snap-On Precision Measurement Training Tool Kit, helping students understand the fundamentals of working with precision measurement instruments.

Port Washington-Saukville School District, Ozaukee County | $29,348

Using grant funds for a Baileigh CNC Press Brake, Piranha P-65 Ironworker, and Miller Multimatic 220 AC/DC Welders. The equipment will enhance welding and fabrication offerings by adding supplemental American Welding Society: Schools Excelling through National Skills Education (AWS SENSE) certifications in shielded metal arc welding and gas tungsten arc welding and increasing the percentage of students earning the AWS SENSE level one certification in gas metal arc welding.

Hurley School District, Iron County | $20,258

Using grant funds for two manual milling machines and three manual lathe machines preparing students for successful careers in the manufacturing industry.

Muskego-Norway School District, Waukesha County | $50,000

Using grant funds for Electrical Fabrication and Wiring Learning Systems. This equipment giving students practical, hands-on experience in electrical wiring and thermal processing, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and management processes, equipping students with the skills needed for careers in these critical fields.

Peshtigo School District, Marinette County | $5,000

Using grant funds for Oculus Meta Quest headsets, iPads, and a hydroponic system to give students experience with skills needed for local, in-demand careers.

School District of Nekoosa, Wood County | $9,538

Using grant funds for six Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printers and two DJI Mini 4 Pro drones to expand manufacturing course offerings, including dual-credit credit courses with Mid-State Technical College.

School District of Holmen, La Crosse County | $10,869

Using grant funds for a Universal Laser System, a VLS Cylindrical material indexer, and an AD Oracle iQ with a compressor exposing students to new careers in manufacturing.

Augusta Area School District, Eau Claire County | $35,798

Using grant funds for a CRX collaborative robot integration package and a FANUC CNC Simulator. The equipment will provide students with industry-recognized certifications from FANUC-NOCTI and NIMS, ensuring they graduate with practical skills in high-demand manufacturing sectors.

School District of Jefferson, Jefferson County | $38,176

Using grant funds for mechatronics equipment, a Haas CNC Mini Mill machining center, a Universal Laser System, and a WAZER CNC water jet, providing students hands-on learning experience with mechanical systems that use electrical and digital components.

Madison Metropolitan School District, Dane County | $49,208

Using grant funds for CNC routers, VEX Robotic kits, and laser cutters, helping to foster student interest in robotics, engineering design, and smart manufacturing techniques.

Stockbridge School District, Calumet County | $5,000

Using grant funds for an Eastwood Elite 4x4 CNC plasma table with a plasma cutter, giving students the exposure, knowledge, and skill set needed for manufacturing careers.

School District of Superior, Douglas County | $25,243

Using grant funds for Multimatic 255 Multiprocess Welders, Dynasty 210 TIG welders, and accessories to create eight welding booths for students to gain exposure to welding and fabrication processes.

School District of Spencer, Marathon County | $7,844

Using grant funds for an Epilog Fusion Maker 24 40W laser engraver, which will expand students’ exploration of digital manufacturing, addressing critical equipment needs and preparing them for future careers in manufacturing.

School District of Rhinelander, Oneida County | $46,050

Using grant funds for a Fusion Pro 36 CO2 laser engraver 80W. This equipment will expand rapid prototyping and students’ exploration of digital manufacturing, addressing critical equipment needs and preparing students for future careers in manufacturing.

Elkhorn Area School District, Walworth County | $33,556

Using grant funds for a Haas Mini Mill CNC vertical machining center with 4th-axis drive, a servo rotary table, and a classroom simulator. The equipment will be used for advanced manufacturing industry training and certifications and will meet the skills demand of the local manufacturing workforce.

School District of La Crosse, La Crosse County | $17,393

Using grant funds for a 4x4 Foundational Robotics UGV Lab, CNC simulator, and TecQuipment Engineering Science kits. The equipment will enhance course offerings in engineering and manufacturing and provide more opportunities for high school students to earn college credit.