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M A N U F A C T U R I N G A L L S T A R S 2 0 2 2 7 F or more than 20 years, GPS Education Partners (GPSEd) has built its reputation by helping businesses reexamine workforce challenges through its innovative work- based learning solutions. But even as the organization has evolved from a scrappy program launched in-house for a single manufacturer into a nationally recognized leader in work-based learning, GPSEd hasn't swayed from its original mission: to serve as a bridge between students and business partners by clearing the path to viable technical careers. GPSEd operates its Wisconsin Manufacturing Youth Apprenticeship Program through seven education centers hosted by area manufacturing companies. Menasha Packaging of Neenah is host to one and is the industry's largest independent, retail-focused packaging and merchandising solutions provider. It has served over 80 students since the partnership started in 2017. One exciting opportunity Menasha Packaging can offer GPSEd students is a bridge between the youth apprenticeship and its registered apprenticeship programs. This offers even greater opportunities for students to find work or continue their education right out of high school. For more information about GPSEd programs, go to GPSEd.org/YA4Mfg and follow us on our socials: GPS EDUCATION PARTNERS Waukesha school, I just helped every so often at Suburban's prefabrication shop. What kinds of technology do you use and interact with? We use work order software and task software. Why would you encourage someone to enter the manufacturing field? It's fun. There are a lot of different skills you can learn, and there are so many opportunities to learn and grow. Are there perceptions about manufacturing careers you would like to change? Anyone can work in this field; we need more women working in manufacturing. What has been the most fulfilling experience you've had at your company? The most fulfilling experience I have had at Suburban Enterprises would be seeing the things that I've made come to completion and seeing the positive impact they have for the installers on the construction sites. Being able to say, "I made that." How did your mentors impact your career? The people who I have worked with along the way all took their time to teach and show me new things. It impacted what I wanted to do because it allowed me to see new things/ opportunities and to learn more skills. What classes and training most prepared you with the necessary skills? I have a MIG welding certificate from NWTC. Other helpful classes have included those focused on material cutting applications, gas metal arc welding, weld symbols and blueprints. What kinds of technology do you use and interact with? We work with Navisworks and Lincoln and Miller weld machines. Why would you encourage someone to enter the manufacturing field? It is a very rewarding career. Are there perceptions about manufacturing careers you would like to change? Yes — that welding isn't just for men. What has been the most fulfilling experience you've had at your company? Helping others improve and getting the job done. How did your mentor impact your career? My mentor took the time to explain welding and gave me excellent support. S P O N S O R P A I D P R O F I L E Instagram: instagram.com/gpsed Facebook: facebook.com/gpsedpartners Twitter: twitter.com/gpsedpartners LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ gps-education-partners gpsed.org "By proactively investing in future talent and training the next generation workforce, we're providing very rewarding career opportunities right here close to home." — Jennifer Twombly, senior director of human resources, Menasha Corp. "GPSEd is a better opportunity because it gave me a chance to be out in the field. I will have more experience in the industry than many of my friends." — Bailey Mills, Appleton West High School student and GPSEd Class of 2021 at Menasha Packaging Education Center, Neenah