Whitewater Times

Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) have announced that Elkhorn Area Middle School is to receive a $25,000 grant to fund new Fabrication Laboratory (fab lab) facilities. This initiative will provide students with essential skills needed for the global economy of the 21st century.

The WEDC's Fab Labs Grant Program is intended to aid public school districts by supporting hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM). The grant allows for the purchase of equipment such as 3D printers, laser engravers, computer numerical control routers, and plasma cutters for educational purposes.

The fab lab at Elkhorn Area Middle School aims to provide introductory Career and Technical Education (CTE) learning experiences to increase participation and interest, particularly among female and minority students. The long-term objective is to enhance CTE certifications at the high school level, allowing more students to obtain industry-recognized credentials and Youth Apprenticeships at Elkhorn Area High School.

"EAMS is grateful to the WEDC for the opportunity and their ongoing commitment to innovation in our schools. Our grant writing team deserves our utmost gratitude for making this possible. Expanding the opportunities in our Fab Lab will accelerate our ability to foster creativity in our students and create additional opportunities to partner with our local business partners," stated Ryan McBurney, Principal of Elkhorn Area Middle School.

Governor Tony Evers remarked, "Fab Labs provide students throughout Wisconsin with access to high-tech equipment for hands-on experience and training necessary to prepare them for the jobs of the future."

"We are pleased to award more than $496,000 to 20 school districts today so they can establish or expand their fab lab programs," he continued. "These great spaces for learning are of enormous benefit to students directly, of course, but also their communities by fostering collaboration, bolstering access to technology, encouraging innovation, and inspiring the next generation of leaders."

Missy Hughes, secretary and CEO of WEDC, stressed the significance of the investment: "WEDC has invested over $5.5 million over the past 10 years to 133 school districts across the state, funding for the equipment necessary to help students learn high-demand skills, including technology, manufacturing, and engineering."

Secretary Hughes also noted, "Fab Labs benefit the students themselves with important technology and career skills, as well as Wisconsin employers, who will be able to find workers with the right skills to allow their companies to grow and thrive."

Alongside Elkhorn Area School District, 20 school districts across the state are receiving more than $496,000 in grants this year to establish or expand their fab labs.

For additional information, those interested can visit WEDC's fab lab resource page.