Building the Future: Deck Dogs’ Commitment to Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship Program
At Deck Dogs, we believe that investing in young talent is key to the future of the construction industry. As a proud participant in Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship Program (YA), we provide high school students with hands-on experience in the trades while supporting their career development. Through our partnership with Wisconsin Heights School District, we are helping to shape the next generation of skilled builders—one deck at a time.
What is the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship Program?
The Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship Program is part of a statewide School-to-Work initiative designed to provide high school students with valuable industry experience alongside classroom instruction. This one- or two-year elective program allows students to combine academic learning with mentored on-the-job training in fields like construction, manufacturing, and skilled trades. By enrolling in the program, students receive both technical instruction and real-world work experience, preparing them for college or a full-time career after graduation.
For more information, visit the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship Program website.
Deck Dogs & the Wisconsin Heights School District: A Local Partnership
Deck Dogs proudly partners with Wisconsin Heights School District in Mazomanie, WI, helping students gain firsthand experience in deck building, carpentry, and construction project management. Our involvement in the YA Program isn’t just about filling short-term labor needs—it’s about mentoring, training, and inspiring the next generation of tradespeople.
- Real Job Experience: Students work alongside our experienced crews, learning essential skills in deck construction, safety, and craftsmanship.
- Career Pathway Opportunities: We have already hired a full-time employee from the YA program and continue to create career opportunities for graduates.
- Community Impact: By supporting youth employment and education, we strengthen our local workforce and ensure that skilled trades remain a thriving industry in Wisconsin.
Learn more about the Wisconsin Heights School District Youth Apprenticeship Program.
Why This Program Matters
The construction industry is facing a nationwide labor shortage, with fewer young people entering the trades. Through our participation in the YA Program, Deck Dogs is taking a proactive approach to:
- Introduce students to career opportunities in the skilled trades
- Provide structured training and mentorship
- Develop a pipeline of skilled workers for the future
We take pride in teaching proper work ethic and hands-on skills that will serve these students for years to come—whether they continue in the trades or apply their experience to other fields.
Looking Ahead
Deck Dogs is committed to continuing our partnership with the Wisconsin Heights School District and expanding our involvement in the Wisconsin YA Program. By providing local students with early career training, we’re ensuring that they have the skills and confidence to succeed—whether they choose to enter the workforce or pursue further education in construction and related fields.
We proudly recognize both the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship Program and Wisconsin Heights School District for their commitment to fostering career development for young people. We encourage other businesses in our industry to consider joining this program and supporting the future of skilled trades in Wisconsin.
Interested in learning more about the Youth Apprenticeship Program? Visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development YA Program website for details on how businesses and students can get involved.
