Madison Area Technical College announced on Apr. 29 that its trade apprenticeship students have been awarded $228,000 through Ascendium Tools of the Trade grants.
The funding is intended to help apprentices cover training-related expenses and reduce financial barriers as they pursue careers in high-demand fields such as electricians, industrial electricians, plumbers, machinists, and telecommunications VDV installer technicians. Each of the 114 students received up to $2,000 for tools, equipment, clothing or tuition.
Madison Area Technical College President Dr. Jennifer Berne said the support from Ascendium will make a difference for many students. “Apprenticeships create real opportunities, giving students a direct path to in-demand careers while helping employers build their workforce,” Berne said. “Ascendium’s support removes financial barriers so more of our students can succeed and contribute to Wisconsin’s economy.”
Ascendium has distributed over $8.8 million in scholarships to more than 5,000 apprentices across Wisconsin during the past 13 years. Keith Witham, President and CEO of Ascendium, said apprenticeships are an important option for learners seeking direct paths to good jobs and that these scholarships help ensure success within those programs.
The announcement comes amid record growth for apprenticeship enrollment in Wisconsin. According to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Biennial Report, participation reached unprecedented levels in 2025 for a third consecutive year.
Madison Area Technical College extends its educational reach across south-central Wisconsin according to the official website. The college features state-of-the-art facilities designed for practical training according to the official website and is affiliated with the Wisconsin Technical College System according to the official website. It offers more than 190 associate degrees, technical diplomas, certificates and apprenticeship programs—including online options—and provides open access aimed at fostering lifelong learning across diverse communities according to the official website. Dr. Jennifer Berne serves as president of Madison Area Technical College alongside collaboration with its District Board of Trustees according to the official website.
As apprenticeship opportunities continue expanding statewide and demand grows among employers for skilled workers, college officials say these grants are expected to help even more students advance toward stable careers.
