Career EXCELerate™ Wisconsin celebrated its latest cohort of students to earn certificates through the collaborative program operated in partnership with Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW), Fox Valley Technical College and Rawhide Youth Services.
During the Winter 2025 ceremony, students were given certificates in Certified Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Technician, Professional Truck Driving, Welding Fundamentals, and Manufacturing Technician.
Career EXCELerate is a comprehensive career-training program that was created in summer 2022 with support from a Workforce Innovation Grant from the state of Wisconsin. The program is offered at no cost to individuals who want to launch a lasting career and would benefit from individualized support to advance in their profession, enter a career or return to the workforce.
The goals of the program are to support individuals as they seek in-demand careers in specific areas of study and create a pipeline of job seekers who have the credentials to fill vital roles across Wisconsin.
As of November 17, 2025, 382 individuals have received certificates through the Career EXCELerate program. In addition, those who have completed the program and attained employment are benefiting from improved financial stability, as they have seen an average increase of approximately $11.36 in wages from intake to their current job.
“My job is absolutely amazing, and I’m loving every minute of it.” said Sarah Lipps, a participant in Career EXCELerate truck driving pathway who now drives for Ottery Transport. “I’m so grateful for the CE program—it has truly given me the best situation for my family.”
The program focuses on providing pathways that have future career development options. Enrollment takes place on an ongoing basis for all educational certificate programs. Educational tracks offered by Career EXCELerate include:
- Health Services
- Certified Nursing Assistant
- Certified Direct Care Professional
- Pharmacy Technician
- Patient Care Technician
- Manufacturing
- Welding Fundamentals
- Manufacturing Technician
- Retail
- Retail Fundamentals
- Truck Driving and Maintenance
- Professional Truck Driving – Class A CDL and Maintenance
For job seekers: Individuals interested in earning a certificate through Career EXCELerate can complete the online application form at CareerEXCELerateWI.org.
For local employers: Employers can partner with our team to recruit qualified candidates. Contact careerexceleratewi@goodwillncw.org to learn more.
If you know someone who could benefit, they can be referred to Career EXCELerate by any local agency, nonprofit, employer or personal contact.
