Peering into a powerful compound light microscope at a glass slide smeared with staph bacteria, Majuma Omar could see her future.

“This is amazing,” the sophomore at Milwaukee High School of the Arts said. “I could get used to looking at this kind of stuff all day long.”

Omar was one of nearly 1,500 sophomores from 20 Milwaukee Public Schools high schools who came to Milwaukee Area Technical College on Thursday, March 19, to get information about careers and educational opportunities.

The event, called Explore Your Future, was organized by M-Cubed, an innovative collaboration between MATC, MPS and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Its goals include ensuring student success, meeting the needs of the region’s business and industry, and improving the well-being of Wisconsin residents, their families and communities. 

Read about the  and the .

On Thursday, students explored an array of career opportunities at all four MATC campuses: from animation and automotive technician at the Downtown Milwaukee Campus, to physical therapy assistant at the Mequon Campus, fire science at the Oak Creek Campus, and welding at the West Allis Campus.

Dr. Phillip King, MATC’s executive vice president and provost, told students at the Downtown Milwaukee Campus that he considered numerous careers when he was young. “There was architecture, there was photography, there was psychology,” Dr. King said. “It doesn’t matter if you don’t know yet. The great news is that you don’t have to take this journey alone.”

Dr. King urged the students to ask questions on their tours, begin building networks, talk to teachers and stay engaged with MATC. “We’d love to see you all back here in a few years,” he said.

At the college’s Downtown Campus, Omar peered into the microscope while exploring MATC’s Medical Laboratory Technician program, which prepares students to perform a wide range of laboratory tests that aid in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases.

The starting salary for laboratory technicians today is between $24 and $30 per hour, said Joelle Pietrzak, the program’s instructional chair. “It’s a nice field to be in,” she said. “There are so many things you can get into. You’ll never be bored.”

In the Baking and Pastry Arts classroom, students watched instructors Kurt Fogle and Andrew Schneider whip up dainty pastries topped with toasted meringue and fresh fruit pancakes.

“I don’t know if I could do this,” said Dillon Ham, a student at Milwaukee Hamilton High School. “I’d eat everything I made.”

In the Al Hurvis/PEAK Transportation Center, students used a pneumatic wrench to remove the lug nuts on the college’s PEAK high-performance race car. They also heard about in-demand automotive careers that can pay up to $50 an hour.

In the Baber/Cosmetology classrooms, students learned how to hold a straight razor and how to use cutting-edge technology to examine the scalps of customers. “We are all about the importance of safety and sanitation,” said Julie Stubenrauch, a cosmetology instructor.

Thaysoe Paw, a student at Pulaski High School, was fascinated by the artificial latex arm used by the Phlebotomy program. “When I press down on it, it feels like a bicycle tire,” she said with a laugh. “If I was drawing blood from someone, I’d be afraid their arm would pop.” 

These tours give students early exposure to the college’s 180 programs and can help them make informed decisions about their future, said Nutan Amrute, MATC’s manager of student career, employment and transfer. 

“This is all about getting these students to start thinking about not only what they want to do, but hopefully, what they will love to do,” Amrute said.

by Mark Feldmann, March 23, 2026

The post Finding a Spark: MPS Students Check Out Careers at MATC appeared first on M cubed - MATC, 51ÁÔĆć, MPS Collaboration.

Across both days, about 600 students attended from multiple MPS high schools. Students came away with greater confidence and practical tools they can use immediately, whether they’re preparing for their first job, an apprenticeship, a summer placement, or a long-term career path.

By structuring the day into two sessions, students could move through activities in small groups, ask questions, practice what they learned, and receive direct feedback. This turned “career readiness” from an idea into a true skill set ready to be used.

Through hands-on station rotations, students learned about resume development, financial literacy, obtaining/protecting a driver’s license, nailing the interview, finding a first job, and other work-readiness skills. Attendees also enjoyed a “Dress for Success” fashion show with samples of appropriate attire for different job types. A key feature of the event was a session on Social Capital & Networking led by Jasmine Markesha Salton from 51ÁÔĆć. 

Volunteer community and employer partners were essential in supporting students. These mentors coached students through mock scenarios, provided resume feedback, gave examples of professional communication, and helped students understand the hiring process and workplace expectations.

The workshops were made possible by the collaboration among M-Cubed partners MPS, MATC, and 51ÁÔĆć, along with partner organizations and outstanding employer volunteers who offered their time and expertise to students. Ultimately, the conference demonstrates what’s possible when schools and employers collaborate around a shared goal: helping students see themselves as capable, prepared, and connected to opportunity.

As Erin Cherney, Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator in the MPS Department of College & Career Readiness, shared, “We can’t assume students are ready for the workforce based solely on what they learn in the classroom. Meaningful experiences like these give students the opportunity to practice, grow, and develop the lifelong skills needed to succeed.”

We are grateful to the partners who invested their time and expertise to mentor MPS students. This involvement helps strengthen Milwaukee’s future workforce and expands what students believe is possible.

Want to get involved? Community and employer partners can support future work-readiness experiences by volunteering, hosting job shadows, offering internships, or participating in mock interviews and career exploration events. For more information, please visit this page: /m-cubed/programs/work-based-learning/ 

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Around 1,200 Milwaukee ninth graders got a firsthand look at college life last week as they visited the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, part of the M³Â initiative aimed at helping students envision their future and take concrete steps toward higher education. The half-day visits took place Dec. 1-4. Building on this experience, In March, about 1,500 MPS 10th graders will visit MATC campuses for hands-on career exploration.

M³ is a partnership between Milwaukee Public Schools, Milwaukee Area Technical College and 51ÁÔĆć with the goal of connecting Milwaukee’s youth to clear pathways for higher education. This partnership builds bridges that support and empower students at every step along their journey, and the goal of the campus visits is to give students an immersive campus experience that demystifies higher education and empowers students to take the next steps.

At 51ÁÔĆć students began their day with a tour of Sandburg Hall, exploring the student lounge and dining hall, followed by a stop at the Klotsche Center to see workout facilities and learn about athletics, campus recreation and intramural sports. Then they toured the Golda Meir Library and Student Union.

College students share experiences

A highlight of the day was a student panel, where current 51ÁÔĆć students shared personal experiences about academic opportunities, transitioning to higher education and finding a sense of belonging.

Later, students engaged with representatives from 51ÁÔĆć’s schools and colleges, Honors Program, Undergraduate Research, Centers for Advocacy and Student Experience (CASE) Offices, Multicultural Centers and Student Involvement. This exhibition-style event concluded with a vision board activity, encouraging students to imagine where they see themselves in four years.

For many students, the experience was eye-opening. Aaliyah Cooper Durant, a ninth grader at Golda Meir School, said this was her first university tour.

“I was just here like a Friday ago for Girls Who Code, but this was my first official tour,” she said. “It’s very informative. We’re actually seeing the buildings and talking to current students and getting our questions answered.”

Cooper Durant plans to attend 51ÁÔĆć after high school and is interested in creative writing and web development.

Insider tips

Mikayla Williams, a 51ÁÔĆć third-year student majoring in criminal justice and criminology, led tours while walking backward most of the time. She gave students a glimpse into campus life, from workout equipment and extracurricular activities to personal stories about choosing 51ÁÔĆć and managing her schedule.

Williams also shared a few insider tips, like the time she got free Chick-fil-A nuggets for being an early attendee at a 51ÁÔĆć men’s basketball game. She also explained how 51ÁÔĆć supports students as they transition into the workforce through field placement programs and 51ÁÔĆć’s Center for Student Experience and Talent.

John Hickethier, a school counselor at Golda Meir who chaperoned a group, emphasized the value of the experience.

“The exposure is amazing. I don’t think you can get a better experience or research other than physically being on campus,” Hickethier said. “They’re hearing about college life from current students, and I think it’s invaluable. Just to have the exposure and learn what college provides opens pathways students might not otherwise pursue.”

Since 2017, 11,000 MPS freshmen and sophomores have toured 51ÁÔĆć and MATC campuses as part of the M³ initiative.

By Luella Dooley-Menet, December 9, 2025

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Monday, October 13, 2025
High school seniors—it’s time to apply for financial aid for college and technical schools! The first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application shows students their eligibility for grants and loans, and is used by colleges across the country to develop each student’s financial aid package.

MPS kicked off the opening of the FAFSA season with an event on October 13 at Washington High School. MPS Superintendent Brenda Cassellius, along with Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, MATC President Anthony Cruz, and 51ÁÔĆć Chancellor Thomas Gibson, encouraged students to submit their FAFSA as soon as possible.

All MPS families should be aware that completion of the FAFSA is a graduation requirement for the Class of 2026. Filling out the FAFSA often shows students that college can be affordable through grants and loans and opens a pathway to college or technical school. More information and the application link are available at  . When filling out the application, be sure to click on the link for the 2026–27 school year.

Families and students who have questions about the FAFSA or the graduation requirement should meet with a high school counselor or College and Career Center advisor to learn more. After a meeting, families who are still unable to submit the FAFSA may request a waiver for this graduation requirement.

MPS has College and Career Centers in 21 high schools to help students fill out the FAFSA, explore colleges, write essays, and complete college applications. Hours vary by school. MPS students can contact any College & Career Center to get the help they need from a college and career advisor. For more information about College & Career Center locations, hours, and services, visit the MPS .

Students who wish to fill out the FAFSA should visit . Applicants are cautioned to use only this website and to avoid any websites that charge a fee.

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The award celebrates the city’s outstanding efforts in preparing southeastern Wisconsin’s future workforce through innovative work-based learning programs.

The honor was presented during the annual M³ Employer Partner Celebration, held Wednesday at the 51ÁÔĆć Student Union Ballroom. The event featured remarks from 51ÁÔĆć Chancellor Thomas Gibson, MATC President Anthony Cruz, MPS Superintendent Brenda Cassellius and Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, along with a panel discussion involving local employers.

Since its inception in 2018, the M³ Work-Based Learning Program has connected more than 5,000 students with career exploration opportunities across various industries. The initiative places students from MPS, MATC and 51ÁÔĆć into internships and apprenticeships, allowing them to earn wages while gaining hands-on experience in public service and private sector roles.

Johnson, who accepted the award on behalf of the city, praised the program’s impact.

 â€śThis initiative represents the best of Milwaukee. Employers are showing young people that their skills are valued and that their future is bright, right here in Milwaukee,” Johnson said.

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson (left) celebrates the award with City of Milwaukee Human Resources Manager Kristin Urban and City of Milwaukee Diversity Recruiter Kobena-Marcus Collins, who was recognized during the award presentation as being one of the key drivers for the city’s work-based learning program success. (51ÁÔĆć Photo/Troye Fox)

Gibson emphasized the importance of bridging education and employment, sharing his own experience as a student worker. “You are opening doors and inviting our students to explore who they might become,” he said.

Cruz highlighted the development of transferable skills among students, thanking employers for their continued support. Cassellius noted the transformative power of work-based learning, saying, “It helps students see themselves in a career they never expected.”

This year alone, 271 students from 18 high schools participated in the Work-Readiness Conference, and over 1,100 students engaged with 121 employers at job fairs. Nearly 900 employer evaluations affirmed students’ core competencies, and 92% of employers expressed intent to hire students they met through these events. At 51ÁÔĆć, more than 4,500 students participate in experiential learning each year, including internships, co-ops, student teaching, clinical placements and community-based research.

The City of Milwaukee’s recognition underscores a growing commitment to youth empowerment and workforce readiness, positioning the city as a leader in building a diverse and skilled talent pipeline for the future.

By Luella Dooley-Menet

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This three-year, $300,000 grant, distributed in $100,000 annual installments, will expand and strengthen Smart Start’s proven efforts to ensure graduating MPS seniors successfully transition into college at MATC or 51ÁÔĆć.

Smart Start combats “summer melt,” which happens when students accepted to college fail to enroll, by providing coaching, peer engagement opportunities, and transition events throughout the summer and fall. Participating students receive up to $500 in scholarships while building skills and relationships that support their long-term success.

Since its launch, Smart Start has grown more than sixfold, from 106 students in its first year to 641 in 2024. Retention data underscores the program’s impact:

• At 51ÁÔĆć, 95.6% of Fall 2024 Smart Start participants continued into Spring 2025, compared to 86.1% of other MPS students.
• At MATC, 74.7% of participants persisted to the spring semester, compared to 68.9% of their peers.

“Smart Start reflects the kind of thoughtful, student-centered work we’re proud to support,” said JoAnne Anton, President and CEO of Herb Kohl Philanthropies. “This collaborative model helps young people navigate one of life’s most important transitions.”

The announcement comes as Smart Start gears up for key summer events, including:

• July 31 – MPS Summer College and Career Expo
• August 1 – Smart Start Social at 51ÁÔĆć Student Union (12:00-1:00 pm).

Media are invited to attend and see firsthand how students are preparing for their first semester of college with the support of success coaches and community partners.

For more information about Smart Start, visit .

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Hosted at the 51ÁÔĆć Welcome Center, the event marked another milestone in the program’s growing impact. Since launching in 2019, nearly 800 students have earned over 10,000 credits, saving families an estimated $3.1 million in tuition.

This year alone, students earned 1,775 credits and collectively saved $532,650. This is clear evidence of the program’s role in advancing college access and affordability.

“I’m really proud. I worked really hard to make sure I got good grades in all my classes,” said senior Faith Alford, reflecting on her experience in the MÂł College Connections Program. “I put a lot of effort into what I did and if I had questions, I had professors and [advisors] to help me with all that.”

M-Cubed College Connections is one of several pathways through which MPS students earn college credit with 51ÁÔĆć and MATC. Currently, 1,500 MPS students are enrolled in college-level coursework across both institutions.

Get Involved

M-Cubed College Connections is more than a program, it’s a powerful example of what’s possible when K-12 and higher education work together. By supporting efforts like this, we can expand opportunity, reduce college costs, and build confidence in students who are ready to thrive.

Whether you’re an educator, employer, or community member, your engagement helps sustain and grow these opportunities. Let’s keep working together to ensure more students graduate with a head start on college and a clear path to success.

For more information or to get involved, visit: /m-cubed/

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That’s how nearly 300 Milwaukee Public Schools students left the first M-Cubed Work Readiness Conference, held February 26 at Alverno College.

The event brought together students from 18 MPS high schools and more than 30 local employers and professionals to help students prepare for the working world.

Through interactive workshops and presentations, students learned how to write effective resumes, communicate professionally in interviews, and present themselves successfully at career events.

“Students were buzzing and immediately took steps toward youth apprenticeships and job fairs,” said one company representative at the conference. “There were real opportunities and real momentum.”

“It was great hearing students speak with confidence and conviction about themselves and their future,” said another employer. “The presenters and revolving work stations were engaging, relevant, and effective.”

Conference organizers hope to bring more businesses to future events, refine the content based on employer hiring needs, and strengthen school-to-career connections through ongoing, work-based learning opportunities.

M-Cubed partners can support this program by volunteering at the next event, encouraging local employers to host tables at M³ career fairs, and sharing the with interested businesses and partners.

About MÂł (pronounced M-cubed): MÂł seeks to transform the future of Milwaukee through education. By collaborating, coordinating and partnering, MPS, MATC and 51ÁÔĆć will increase the retention, graduation and career success of our students and provide a prepared workforce and citizenry for Wisconsin and its economy. MÂł will also provide the education and resources to help drive an entrepreneurial mindset for all students to increase choices and opportunities for growth. Find out more at /m-cubed/

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MILWAUKEE — High school juniors at Milwaukee Public Schools have a few days left to join nearly 1,500 of their classmates in applying early to college.

The deadline is June 1 for juniors to complete the free, simple M-Cubed Milwaukee Direct Admit form. In less than five minutes, students can apply to Milwaukee Area Technical College, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, or both. Students can go to to get started.

Milwaukee Direct Admit effort is part of M-Cubed, a partnership connecting MPS, MATC and 51ÁÔĆć to build bridges from K-12 to higher education and transform Milwaukee through education. As one initiative in the partnership, M-Cubed Milwaukee Direct Admit is specifically designed to simplify the college application process. There are no essays, no letters of recommendation, and no test scores, attachments, or transcripts for the students to send. MPS provides 51ÁÔĆć and MATC with transcripts and other needed information directly. And by starting the process early — during junior year instead of senior year — students can focus their senior year on finishing strong, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and getting registered for college classes. 

Students and families are already responding in increasing numbers. 

The 1,467 MPS juniors who have already applied represent 39% of the class, exceeding M-Cubed’s goal of 35% and nearly doubling the 21% who applied last year.

Last year’s applicants are now high school seniors and nearly 900 began their senior year with a college acceptance in hand. Through another M-Cubed initiative — Smart Start — they spent their senior year getting to know one another, registering for classes and getting oriented to college. They can participate in a summer program, and the support continues into their first year at 51ÁÔĆć or MATC. Together, these efforts are aimed at increasing the number of Milwaukee high school students who go on to and succeed in higher education, lifting up the individuals, their families, our community — and building a skilled, diverse workforce. 

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Locating classrooms.

Finding the cafeteria.

Calculating travel times.

Meeting new friends.

For Milwaukee Public Schools seniors heading to college, doing these things on campus sooner rather than later can enhance and improve their education experience.

MPS students planning to attend or the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee can connect with their new colleges before starting fall classes in an orientation program called Smart Start. The program is an initiative of the M-Cubed partnership among MPS, MATC, and 51ÁÔĆć, which helps clear pathways for students moving on to higher education.

The work starts while students are still in high school with application and registration support. Smart Start students work with a success coach who prepares them for a smooth first day of school and helps them build beneficial life and study habits.

Success coaches maintain a relationship with Smart Start students throughout the first semester to ensure students feel comfortable on campus and persist to their second semester.

Students can participate in summer and fall semesters. By completing a series of activities, they can be eligible to earn up to $500 in scholarships.

Smart Start, now in its third year, is working. At 51ÁÔĆć, the retention rate from Fall 2024 to Spring 2025 was 91.3% for Smart Start students, compared to 79.9% for all MPS students. At MATC, 65.6% of Smart Start students stayed in school, compared to 58% for all MPS students.

This year, the number of MPS graduates participating in Smart Start has significantly increased. In Summer 2024, 581 MPS graduates engaged in the program, with 298 (188 at MATC and 110 at 51ÁÔĆć) completing the requirements to earn scholarships. In Summer 2023, 190 students participated in the program—97 at MATC and 93 at 51ÁÔĆć.

MPS, MATC, and 51ÁÔĆć faculty, staff, and parents should encourage 2025 MPS graduates considering MATC or 51ÁÔĆć next fall to . Students who register will receive follow-up from MATC and 51ÁÔĆć.

Find out more about Smart Start at /m-cubed/programs/smartstart/

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