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Perkins State Plan

Perkins V: Strengthening Career and Technical Education in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Technical College System partners with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to expand access to high-quality career and technical education across the state. Together, we implement the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V), a federal investment in education and workforce development.

Through Perkins V, WTCS administers more than $21 million annually to support:

  • 392 school districts
  • 16 technical colleges
  • 2 tribal colleges
  • More than 500 CTE programs

This funding benefits over 160,000 secondary students and 120,000 postsecondary students statewide.

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Wisconsin’s Perkins V work is guided by two statewide goals

Increase Postsecondary Attainment

We aim to increase the number of Wisconsinites earning high-quality credentials, including certificates, technical diplomas, apprenticeships, and associate degrees, in career pathways aligned with high-demand, high-skill, and high-wage occupations.

Eliminate Gaps in Student Success 

We are committed to closing differences in access, participation, and outcomes across student groups, including students with disabilities, single parents, and other historically underserved populations.

How We Advance This Work

Perkins V supports a coordinated, statewide approach to career-connected learning by:

  • Expanding career pathways from middle school through college and into the workforce
  • Aligning programs with workforce needs through employer and industry partnerships
  • Increasing access to dual enrollment and work-based learning opportunities
  • Using data to continuously improve programs and student outcomes
  • Supporting educators through professional development and industry engagement

These efforts are built on strong collaboration among schools, colleges, workforce partners and communities statewide.

Impact

Career and technical education in Wisconsin delivers strong results:

  • 94% of graduates are employed within six months of graduation
  • Two-thirds of credentials are earned in high-demand fields
  • Most graduates work in jobs related to their training

Learn More

Wisconsin Technical College System

The Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) offers more than 500 programs awarding two-year associate degrees, one- and two-year technical diplomas, short-term technical diplomas, certificates and related education for apprenticeships. The System is the major provider of customized instruction and technical assistance for Wisconsin employers. With more than 293,900 people enrolling in a technical college each year, it is the largest higher education system in the state.

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