Mid-State Technical College is celebrating Manufacturing Month throughout October with a series of events highlighting the region’s strong manufacturing heritage, program growth and expanding partnerships that connect students directly to high-demand careers.

Manufacturing is central to Wisconsin’s economy and to Mid-State’s mission of providing education that meets regional workforce needs. This year’s celebration showcases how education, industry and innovation come together to create opportunity and inspire the next generation of skilled professionals.

Mid-State’s Manufacturing Month celebration features several hands-on events throughout October. Return to Learn, held at the Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, and Apprenticeship (AMETA™) Center, provided adults and career-changers with an inside look at advanced technology, training opportunities and local employer connections. K–12 Industry in Action welcomed middle school students from across the district to experience advanced manufacturing first-hand through program exploration and industry tours, introducing them early to high-skill, high-wage careers that power Wisconsin’s economy.

On October 17, Mid-State hosted a SkillsUSA Regional Welding Competition, bringing together students from six school districts to showcase their technical skills in a high-energy event that promotes excellence in the skilled trades. Winners from this event will advance to the state competition, representing their schools and the region on a larger stage.

The celebration continues on October 21 with Program Showcase, where students, families and community members can explore a variety of career options, including manufacturing, engineering and apprenticeship pathways. Visitors will meet instructors, engage in demonstrations and see how Mid-State’s hands-on training connects directly to local workforce opportunities.

Since the launch of the AMETA Center, Mid-State has seen tremendous momentum in manufacturing-related programming. The state-of-the-art facility has not only created new learning environments but also contributed to a 44 percent increase in enrollment in manufacturing and related programs since its opening.

“The AMETA Center has been a game changer for Mid-State and for the region,” said Ryan Kawski, Mid-State’s dean of Applied Technology. “It’s inspiring students, energizing partnerships and showing the next generation what modern manufacturing looks like—innovative, collaborative and filled with opportunity.”

“Manufacturing Month gives us the opportunity to celebrate progress, not just in technology and facilities, but in people,” Kawski added. “We’re proud to be connecting more students than ever to high-demand careers and to the employers that make this region strong.”

Mid-State’s manufacturing programs include Welding, Machine Tool Technician, Civil Engineering Technology-Highway Technician, Mechanical Design Technology and Industrial Maintenance Technician, among others. Each is built in close partnership with local employers to ensure graduates have the skills and confidence to succeed in today’s advanced manufacturing environments.

For more information about Mid-State’s manufacturing programs and upcoming events, visit mstc.edu.