Last held in November of 2019, the much-anticipated Externship Day returned to the Joseph J. Goetz Training Center in Coloma. This fall’s event, held over two days, was record breaking with close to over 1200 students, educators, and parents from over 90 school districts in attendance.
Developed as a day for Wisconsin’s youth to explore the Operating Engineer pathway, this was the largest turnout to date. As worker shortages make headline news across the country, attracting a future workforce is critical. Externship Day introduces a rewarding and exciting alternative to 4-year college to students who like working with their hands and making lasting contributions to their communities.
This free event, planned in the spring and fall, rotates attendees through tours of the training center and 400-acre site, hands-on time with the simulators and mini-excavators in the training arena, an overview of apprenticeship and direct conversations with contractors.
All attendees, including the 200+ volunteers and members, started their morning with an opening message from IUOE General Vice President, President/Business Manager Terry McGowan and Vice President, Training Director Dan Sperberg. Special guests present to recognize the importance of apprentice and construction in Wisconsin included:
- Department of Workforce Development Secretary Amy Pechacek
- Senator Brad Pfaff
- Representative Don Vurwink
- Representative Katrina Shankland
Five contractors participated in an employer’s roundtable, sharing practical advice with the students on what makes a qualified candidate and how the opportunities for advancement are worth considering. Thank you for your partnership and commitment to joining us for important workforce development outreach events:
- The Boldt Company– Ginelle Hussin
- JP Cullen – Mark Ihlenfeldt
- Integrity Grading & Excavating – Kyle Beld
- Michels Corporation – Haily Joas
- Walbec Group, Inc. – Dan Eckstrom & Dan Webster
Thank you!
An event of this magnitude would not have been possible if it were not for the amazing work of all the dedicated staff at the Training Center and the over 200 apprentices, members and retirees that helped – driving the buses, serving as tour guides, or helping with the simulators and mini-excavators. Special commendation to Kip Gutke who spent countless hours planning and organizing not only the logistics of the groups, setup, food, and buses, but also the outreach to all the volunteers. Truly the success of team effort by all!