Milwaukee Machining Program Sees New Batch Of Graduates

A group of students and officials marked a step forward Monday for skill-training programs that try to connect the jobless with a job.

A partnership between the city of Milwaukee, the state, the federal government and the private sector held a graduation ceremony for 15 people who’ve completed 10 weeks of training in a machinists program known as CNC.

One of the graduates, Linda Hazard House said she’s been laid off from two other jobs in recent years, and as she held a piece of scrap metal, she expressed optimism about finding work.

“When the chips are down, we sweep them up, we recycle them and we rejoice, because according to the employers, when you make chips you’re making money,” said house.

Parts of Milwaukee still have among the highest unemployment rates in Wisconsin. But Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett said the local manufacturing partnership is trying to connect potential employers with qualified workers.

Correction: An earlier headline of this story described the graduates as the fist to complete the program. It has been updated.