If Ranard (Northeast HCST Coordinator) recommends someone, that comes with a high stamp of approval. HCST graduates demonstrate professionalism like shaking hands, making eye contact, and showing respect that many people never learned elsewhere.
As Wisconsin’s construction industry continues to grow, contractors across the state are searching for dependable, job-ready workers who can contribute from day one. Forward Service Corporation’s Highway Construction Skills Training (HCST) program has emerged as one of the most effective solutions to this challenge. In just six weeks and at no cost to participants, HCST prepares individuals for real, sustainable careers in road construction and related trades.
To strengthen collaboration and gather industry insights, HCST recently hosted Contractor Engagement Events in both Madison and Northeast Wisconsin. Held at the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) office in Madison and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) in Green Bay, these events brought together contractors, unions, educators, and agency partners to share feedback, discuss workforce needs, and celebrate HCST’s growing impact statewide.
Industry Leaders Confirm: HCST Is Working
Across both regions, partners expressed overwhelming support for HCST and the quality of its graduates. Attendees included representatives from Walbec Group, Murphy Concrete & Construction (MCC), North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters (NCSRCC), Laborers Local 330 and LIUNA, Northeast Asphalt, Integrity Excavating & Grading, Fahrner Asphalt, Arbor Green, ABC of Wisconsin, the Department of Corrections, and several divisions of WisDOT.
Their message was clear: HCST graduates show up ready.
Employers consistently praised the professionalism the program instills—highlighting traits such as reliability, strong communication, respect, and workplace readiness.
A representative from Walbec Group noted, “If Ranard (Northeast HCST Coordinator) recommends someone, that comes with a high stamp of approval. HCST graduates demonstrate professionalism like shaking hands, making eye contact, and showing respect that many people never learned elsewhere.”
Contractors emphasized that HCST participants don’t enter the field as beginners—they enter as professionals.
Training That Mirrors Real Jobsites
HCST’s six-week curriculum is intentionally rigorous, blending hands-on training with classroom instruction. Participants learn fundamental skills such as safety, construction math, flagging, equipment awareness, and communication—giving them a realistic preview of jobsite expectations.
Employers appreciated the built-in interaction opportunities. Contractors, unions, and industry organizations regularly visit classes to present opportunities, answer questions, and conduct interviews. One NCSRCC representative shared: “We can teach people the trade. What we need is professionalism—showing up, being accountable, and communicating well. HCST teaches that, and it shows.”
This alignment between training and employer needs is one of the program’s strongest assets.
A Program That Changes Lives—and Strengthens the Workforce
While partners acknowledged challenges—such as transportation barriers or acclimating to seasonal work—they were unanimous in their praise for the solid foundation HCST provides. WisDOT leadership emphasized that HCST’s success stories speak for themselves: graduates leave with technical skills, confidence, discipline, and a clear path forward.
The Contractor Engagement Events underscored what makes HCST truly exceptional: collaboration, communication, and a shared mission to build Wisconsin’s future workforce. By bringing together contractors, unions, educators, and state agencies, these events generated new ideas, reinforced partnerships, and strengthened the network that helps HCST graduates launch long, fulfilling careers.
Take the Next Step—As a Participant or Employer Partner
With strong employer partnerships, hands-on training, and a proven track record of success, the HCST program remains one of Wisconsin’s and Forward Service Corporation’s most effective pathways into construction careers.
Whether you’re ready to start a new career—or an employer seeking reliable, job-ready talent—Forward Service Corporation’s Highway Construction Skills Training program is ready to help you move forward.
