By: Christine Lindner, EK Marketing Manager

For many high school students, deciding what comes next after graduation can feel overwhelming. Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program offers a unique opportunity to explore a career path, gain valuable work experience, and earn wages while still in school. At EK, we are proud to support the next generation of skilled trades professionals through hands-on learning opportunities that help students build a strong foundation for the future.

One of those students is Austin Schuetz, a senior at Fall River High School and a Youth Apprentice at EK.

Learning by Doing

Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship program is a statewide “earn-while-you-learn” initiative that allows high school juniors and seniors to gain real-world experience while earning school credit and a paycheck. Students complete at least 450 hours of industry training under the guidance of experienced mentors, helping them develop both technical and employability skills.

Austin joined EK’s Youth Apprenticeship program last summer and has spent the past year gaining valuable experience as a CNC Machinist.

In his role, Austin works with Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining equipment, running parts through programmed machines and verifying that each component meets quality and tolerance specifications.

“It’s been great experiencing new things and learning the trade,” Austin said. “Ultimately, my goal is to be hired on at EK as a full-time CNC Machinist.”

Turning Classroom Learning into Career Experience

Austin’s interest in the trades started long before he stepped onto EK’s shop floor.

At Fall River High School, he has taken courses including Woods I and Woods II; Home Maintenance; Building and Trades; and Welding I.

Fall River School Career and Technical Education Instructors, Ryan Seichter and Ryan Christian, have built strong community connections in the last four years working with local businesses to foster meaningful work experiences for students to get involved in Youth Apprenticeship.

“For the 2025-2026 school year we had a record 18 students in YA and work experience programs that connects classroom learning with real-world experience, preparing students for future trades, agriculture and nursing careers.” In the last five years, Fall River has increased apprenticeships by nearly 1800%, and Austin is a rising student who has benefited greatly from the program.”

Austin is also actively involved in SkillsUSA, competing in woodworking since his freshman year and participating in masonry competitions since his junior year. SkillsUSA, is a career and technical student organization (CTSO) that empowers students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and community members.

Outside of school, Austin volunteers with Blood Cancer United, helping support fundraising events aimed at finding cures for cancer. Austin is a childhood cancer survivor and is 12 years of being cancer free.

His involvement in both technical education and community service demonstrates the dedication and work ethic that help Youth Apprentices thrive.

A Head Start on a Career

For Austin, the biggest benefit of the Youth Apprenticeship program is gaining hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment while still in high school.

The program allows students to go beyond the classroom and see what a future career could look like before graduating. Students who successfully complete the program earn an Occupational Skills Proficiency Certification, a credential recognized across Wisconsin that validates their skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience.

When asked what advice he would give other students considering a Youth Apprenticeship, Austin shares:

“Learn as much as you can before getting hired. Ask as many questions as you need to.”

His plans after graduation have been shaped by his Youth Apprenticeship with EK to continue pursuing a career in the skilled trades.

A Win-Win for Students and Employers

Matt Bell, CNC Manager at EK, shares how Youth Apprenticeship creates benefits for both students and employers.

“Youth Apprenticeship is a win-win for everyone. It is easier to train a young student and help mold them into a successful employee. EK has seen the value in the Youth Apprenticeship program.”

By providing students with mentorship, training, and meaningful work experiences, EK is helping close the skilled trades gap while creating career pathways for youth.

EK’s Commitment to Developing Future Talent

EK is proud to be a leader in Wisconsin for Youth Apprenticeship, providing opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in manufacturing careers. Each year, EK hosts a Youth Apprenticeship Signing Day to celebrate students as they begin their career journeys.

Established in 1970 and headquartered in Fall River, Wisconsin, EK is a diversified manufacturer serving industries including agriculture, construction, aerospace, transportation, power generation, and more. Across six facilities and more than 800,000 square feet, EK’s family-centric and safety-first culture continues to support employees, customers, and communities alike.

Recently recognized as a 2026 Madison Top Workplace for the third consecutive year and named 2026 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year, EK remains committed to investing in people and building the future of manufacturing.

Interested in Learning More?

If you know a student, parent, educator, or school interested in learning more about Youth Apprenticeship opportunities at EK, we’d love to connect.

Programs like Youth Apprenticeship help students like Austin gain the confidence, skills, and experience needed to launch successful careers in the trades, proving that the path to a rewarding career can start long before graduation day.

Learn more about EK and explore our current Youth Apprentice opportunities at https://www.ekmachine.com/careers/.