Mid-State awarded $1.8 million grant from the EDA

October 14, 2024

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Mid-State Technical College will receive a $1.8 million grant from the U.S. Commerce Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to create a workforce development center on the Adams Campus to provide training in the healthcare, welding and construction sectors. 

This EDA investment will be matched with $1.8 million in local funds and is estimated to create 150 jobs, retain 50 jobs and generate $2 million in private investment.

Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said this EDA investment will help support essential technical jobs, diversify the local economy and boost regional economic resilience in Wisconsin Rapids for decades to come. 

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and External Affairs Cristina Killingsworth said this project will enable Mid-State to bolster the in-demand talent pool of workers in Adams County to ensure that good-paying jobs remain in the region.

Currently, Mid-State’s Adams Campus serves more than 632 students annually through workforce training, professional development and adult education courses. 

According to Mid-State’s Adams Campus dean, Rick Anderson, the funds will be used to remodel the existing 2,025-square-foot building, as well as constructing and equipping an additional 1,700 square feet.

Anderson said this facility currently provides the only postsecondary career and technical education training within this rural community and county – which is historically underserved. 

“Our technical colleges play a critical role in helping train and retain talented workers, so I am grateful to the EDA, Mid-State Technical College and the Biden-Harris Administration for their partnership in helping create family-supporting jobs and prepare highly skilled workers right here in Wisconsin,” Gov. Tony Evers said.