Firecrest Aerospace helped demonstrate regional workforce demand; USA MADE will train at least 150 workers and support 20 manufacturers
Mid-State Technical College has been awarded a $5 million grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to expand hands-on workforce training and technical assistance for small manufacturers across central Wisconsin.
Mid-State is one of 11 organizations nationwide selected for the SBA's Manufacturing in America Empower to Grow (E2G) Grant Initiative. The College's 12-month project, USA MADE: Upskilling and Strengthening America's Manufacturing Advancement and Development Ecosystem, is designed to strengthen the region's manufacturing workforce, improve small-business competitiveness and build domestic supply-chain capacity.
Firecrest Aerospace played an important role in helping Mid-State identify the scale and urgency of the region’s emerging workforce needs and in driving the College’s pursuit of the grant. The company’s plans to establish advanced propulsion manufacturing in Stevens Point underscore the growing demand for highly skilled workers, advanced technical training and a strong network of manufacturing suppliers throughout central Wisconsin.
Although Firecrest helped catalyze the grant effort, USA MADE is designed to serve eligible manufacturers throughout Mid-State’s district and across a wide range of industries.
“Firecrest Aerospace’s planned investment is one example of the advanced manufacturing growth taking shape in central Wisconsin,” said Paul Lemke, CEO of Firecrest Aerospace Inc. “The long-term success of projects like ours depends on a deep pool of skilled talent and a strong regional manufacturing network. Mid-State’s USA MADE initiative will help build that capacity while creating opportunities for manufacturers and workers throughout the region.”
"This investment recognizes both the importance of manufacturing to central Wisconsin and Mid-State's ability to respond with practical, employer-driven solutions," said Dr. Shelly Mondeik, president of Mid-State Technical College. "By connecting workers and small manufacturers with advanced training, industry expertise and state-of-the-art facilities, USA MADE will help our region compete, grow and create lasting economic opportunity."
Through USA MADE, Mid-State plans to serve 20 manufacturing businesses and train at least 150 workers. The project targets 75 industry-recognized credentials, 20 technical-assistance engagements and 15 operational-improvement initiatives during the grant period.
Training will be offered tuition- and fee-free to eligible participants, with qualifying certification application or exam costs covered by the project. Five stackable certificate pathways will allow workers to build foundational skills and advance into specialized areas including quality management, manufacturing engineering, advanced manufacturing, supply-chain development and workforce leadership.
"Small manufacturers need more than a one-size-fits-all training menu," said Dr. Chris Severson, Mid-State provost and vice president, academic affairs. "We will begin by listening to each participating employer, assessing its workforce and operational needs, and then building a customized plan that combines hands-on instruction with targeted technical assistance. The goal is measurable improvement for both employees and the businesses that depend on their skills."
Participating manufacturers will receive customized operational assessments and technical assistance addressing needs such as lean manufacturing, process optimization, quality systems, advanced manufacturing readiness, supplier development, cybersecurity and compliance, workforce planning and operational effectiveness. Engagements may be delivered by Mid-State faculty and staff, industry subject-matter experts or qualified third-party consultants.
Much of the hands-on training will draw on resources at Mid-State's Wayne H. Bushman Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, and Apprenticeship (AMETA®) Center in Stevens Point. The 48,000-square-foot facility includes specialized labs and equipment supporting automation, robotics, welding, machining, manufacturing operations and mechanical design.
USA MADE is expected to begin in September 2026, with initial outreach and employer onboarding followed by customized organizational and individual training. Mid-State will share eligibility, application and course information as program details are finalized.
The SBA announced the $50 million national grant initiative on Aug. 5. Through E2G, eligible small businesses receive free courses, practical workshops and one-on-one advising to support growth, operations, workforce development, regulatory compliance and competitiveness in government contracting.
Learn more about Mid-State's customized workforce training and the AMETA Center at mstc.edu.
