WRTP/BIG STEP's History

WRTP was initially created to renew our traditional industrial base in the Milwaukee area during the 1990s.  The recovery of manufacturing, retirement of an aging workforce, and diversification of the regional economy created a growing skills shortage by the end of the decade.  In response to this threat to economic growth and prosperity, we created our successful model of pre-employment training for job seekers to qualify for family-sustaining jobs in the industrial sector. 

The development of our industry-driven model coincided with the implementation of Wisconsin Works (W-2) by Governor Thompson’s administration.  Our program offered an opportunity to former welfare recipients and other low-income central city residents to acquire the skills they needed to qualify for family-sustaining jobs.  The program has promoted the goal of helping community residents achieve self-sufficiency.

WRTP received funds from the Annie E. Casey Foundation to develop a model program in manufacturing training in 1997.  In 2000, WRTP was awarded a demonstration grant from the United States Department of Labor to replicate the program in other sectors. The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation selected WRTP for a national Sector Employment Impact Study in 2003. 

The collaboration between WRTP and BIG STEP began during the Department of Labor grant term when construction was one of the industry sectors selected for replication.  Since 1996, WRTP has provided central city workers with training in a dozen career paths in construction, manufacturing, health care and other industries.  The success of these programs gave WRTP/BIG STEP the status of a national leader in developing sector-based, creative workforce solutions by bringing together both resources and partners in their efforts to help their members.  The model is not just about retaining jobs in a community but also about maintaining the competitiveness of the companies that provide those jobs.