Career Education

Sponsored by the Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC), the Youth Apprenticeship program connects employers of all industries with current St. Thomas More students seeking work experience and professional mentorship. Students receive an hourly wage, high school credit, and valuable professional experience that will help them stand out when applying for entry-level jobs.

Student participants must work 450 hours over the course of a year, with 250 hours occurring during the school year. The remaining hours may be completed during the summer. To maximize the educational experience, students must receive growing responsibilities during their time working with a participating employer. All participating students and their parents must sign an agreement with St. Thomas More and the employer stating that they will complete the required work hours and abide by the program’s and their employer’s rules and regulations.

In our Nursing Assistant Certification Program, students learn the skills and procedures needed to assist patients with their daily living activities and specialized care needs. The program consists of college-level instruction in medical theory held at MATC and clinical hours performed at local healthcare facilities.

After finishing their classwork, on-site responsibilities, and a proficiency exam, students become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), a credential required to assist Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in patient-care facilities. Students who complete the program earn valuable hands-on experience that will help them stand out in college and their early professional careers.

Combining elements of engineering, fine arts, and business, S.M.A.R.T. (Safety, Mechatronics, Automation, Robotics, Tools) Manufacturing introduces students to common manufacturing techniques, such as mechatronics, computer-aided design (CAD), lathe turning, laser engraving, and 3-D printing.

Students first learn the safety and professionalism standards used in the manufacturing world. Developed in collaboration with local educational institutions and businesses, S.M.A.R.T. Manufacturing teaches the guidelines set by the Manufacturing Skills Safety Council (MSSC), ensuring that students remain safe while gaining the knowledge and training needed as manufacturing or engineering professionals.

After passing a state-administered exam, students earn MSSC’s Certified Production Technician (CPT) Safety Certificate. This professional certification indicates that they are qualified for entry-level manufacturing positions and possess the academic foundation needed to pursue additional education in engineering, product development, and supply chain management.