Whitewater Times

The Elkhorn Area School District (EASD) and Delavan-Darien School District (DDSD) have announced the launch of the Craftsman with Character (CWC) Program. This initiative, starting on January 22, 2025, is a semester-long program that connects students with skilled trades while emphasizing character development.

Students from Career & College Academy and Delavan-Darien Technical School will participate in the program. Participants include Abel Chavez, Colten Welch, Griffin Brieschke from Career & College Academy, and Cesar Medrano, Josh Hersrud, Rafael Perez from Delavan-Darien Technical School. These students will work four days a week with local companies Propshaft, R & L Springs, Wisconsin Oven, Integra, Continental Plastic Corporation, and Royal Basket Trucks, Inc. They will also engage in weekly classroom-based learning focused on character development led by Jon Anzalone and Lisa Pavett.

The program is coordinated by Chris Trottier and Mike Rick and aims to enhance educational experiences by bridging school-to-work programs and supporting youth apprenticeships while instilling character.

Founded in 2013 by Dave Hataj of Edgerton Gear, Craftsman with Character provides a structured model combining job shadowing, character education, and mentorship. Dave Hataj stated: “In choosing ‘craftsman,’ we honor the tradition of excellence while embracing the diversity of talents and voices that contribute to the world of craftsmanship.”

This collaboration between EASD and DDSD emphasizes their commitment to preparing students for careers in skilled trades through real-world experiences paired with values-based learning. The districts acknowledge the contributions of local businesses and mentors who are facilitating this experience.