A quarterly newsletter by Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County featuring updates on our McKenzie Regional Workforce Center and CareerForce Build UP! Programming.

New Fall Programming at MRWC

Thanks to the dedication and insight of community partners, the McKenzie Regional Workforce Center is ready to launch an exciting season of fall programming.



One highlight is the NextGen Builders - Residential Skills Academy, designed for ages 16-24. Participants will gain hands-on training with the HBI PACT Curriculum, OSHA-10 and First Aid/CPR certifications, and essential tool and material instruction. The academy also offers mentorship and the chance to earn up to $1,000 upon completion.

This fall’s lineup reflects the shared vision we built together, programs that prepare youth for bright futures and strengthen our community’s workforce. Thank you for helping make these opportunities possible.

Deborah Walsh Signs with Cru Concrete

The McKenzie Regional Workforce Center proudly celebrates Deborah Walsh, a recent graduate of the NextGen Builders, Residential Skills Academy. Deborah’s signing day with Cru Concrete marks more than the start of a job, it represents the launch of an exciting skilled trades career. Through her dedication and the hands-on training she received, including HBI PACT curriculum, OSHA-10, First Aid/CPR, tool and material instruction, and mentorship, Deborah is ready to thrive in the construction industry. We look forward to seeing the impact she will make in her new role. Congratulations, Deborah, on this inspiring next chapter!

Youth Take on Entrepreneurship

Earlier this summer, our morning Entrepreneurship class turned ideas into action by launching their own lemonade stand in the lobby of the McKenzie Regional Workforce Center. From planning and budgeting to marketing and teamwork, these young entrepreneurs learned what it takes to build a business from the ground up. Staff showed their support by stopping by for a refreshing cup of lemonade in three delicious flavors along with some sweet cookies. It was a great day of learning, responsibility, and real-world experience.

Blaze Girls Build Skills and Confidence

The McKenzie Regional Workforce Center, Blaze Girls Camp wrapped up this summer after another exciting and empowering experience. Throughout the week, campers explored hands-on trades like electrical work, drywall installation and more. They practiced these new skills by working on the sheds built during last summer’s Blaze Camp, adding electrical boxes, installing drywall, and improving the interiors. The campers also built picnic tables and benches, gaining confidence and experience in construction and teamwork. A big thank you to the Madison Area Builders Association for sponsoring the camp and helping make this opportunity possible for future builders and leaders.

NextGen Field Trip to Hoffman EV

In August, NextGen Builders students took their learning on the road with a field trip to Hoffman EV, where they discovered how classic cars are transformed into modern electric vehicles. The team at Hoffman EV shared the science and creativity behind converting gas-powered engines to clean electric power, sparking curiosity and excitement among the group. A highlight of the visit was seeing a 1990 Bentley that had been completely converted to run on electricity, proving that even timeless automobiles can embrace a sustainable future.

LOOKING FORWARD

Koats for Kids!

Our Koats for Kids campaign is in full swing with the help of our sponsors. This annual effort helps keep children in our community warm through the winter months with distribution on October 24th.

We will need volunteers to help sort, organize and hang coats and to help out on distribution day. Information about distribution is coming soon! Your time and support will help ensure a smooth and welcoming event for families.

SAVE THE DATE

Lace Up for Youth of the Year!

On Friday, November 7, our Allied Family Center in Fitchburg will host an inspiring Youth of the Year celebration. This year we’re raising the bar to showcase the remarkable talents and potential of our youth like never before. We’ll be celebrating right in the gym where futures are built every day. Formal attire is encouraged, but be sure to pair it with your favorite sneakers! Secure your tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities today.

Youth Coordinator (Skill Trades)

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County is hiring a Youth Coordinator (Skilled Trades)

The Skilled Trades Youth Coordinator introduces middle and high school students to construction careers through fun, hands-on learning at schools, Clubs, and the McKenzie Regional Workforce Center. This full-time, afternoon-to-evening role plans and delivers engaging activities, ensures safe environments, and builds positive relationships with youth and community partners while traveling across Dane County.

Job Responsibilities:



• Plan and lead construction-related activities and career exploration programs for youth ages 5–18.
• Maintain a safe, supportive, and well-organized environment while supervising youth and volunteers.
• Partner with schools, families, and community groups to strengthen programs and achieve positive youth development outcomes.

McKenzie Regional Workforce Center

5215 Verona Road, Fitchburg, WI 53711

Full-time

$18.00 - $20.00 an hour

On behalf of Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County, we'd like to extend our deepest gratitude to our program partners. Because of you, we are making a profound impact in our community and will continue to do so for years to come.

Our goal is to train and connect hundreds of young people and emerging adults to the trades for generations to come. Click the button below to connect with our VP of Workforce Development, Alan Branch, and get involved with our skilled trades & and entrepreneurship programming.