Lake Geneva-based Trostel, a custom rubber molding and compounding company, recently launched a manufacturing youth apprenticeship program in cooperation with GPS Education Partners, a nonprofit that provides immersive work-based education programs. The manufacturer began providing learning space and apprenticeship training to high school students at its Whitewater and Lake Geneva operations in September.
Trostel decided to partner with GPS on the program as a way to address the skills gap problem that involves manufacturers struggling to find skilled labor. The company said the collaboration benefits students, meets the needs of manufacturing and serves to strengthen local communities where it does business.
“Collaborating with GPS is more than an investment in our business and industry,” said Steve Dyer, president and chief executive officer of Trostel. “This is an investment in our students and the communities we serve. Education is key to helping our community’s youth to be successful in their future careers and in their lives. We are delighted to open the door to this program and proud to be a partner in this important initiative.”
In support of the program, Trostel donates classroom space; trains three youth apprentices as part of the program’s business rotation model; and contributes essential classroom learning materials like a projector and dry erase board.
“We are grateful to have business and community partners like Trostel who share our passion and vision for providing innovative pathways to help students succeed, and help local businesses and communities thrive,” says Stephanie Borowski, president of GPS.
