Workforce Success: Williamson Street Art Center

Madison Area Art Business Continues Expansion with Support from Transitional Jobs Program

Local artist and muralist Sharon Kilfoy operates the Williamson Street Art Center—where she offers art instruction courses, artist-in-residency programs, and community arts projects. She began efforts to expand her Madison-based business with a recent remodel and renovation of her business’ interior. As part of her expansion plan, Sharon recognized a need to hire additional staff support to organize the new space and help her prepare for several upcoming artist-in-residency and mural projects.

She had recently heard about the Transitional Jobs Program—a short-term employment program administered by the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin. After learning about the program, she quickly signed on as a Transitional Jobs worksite in February 2011 and a participant was placed at her business shortly thereafter. Currently, Sharon has her new staff helping with mural preparation—including basic wall taping, placing drop cloths, organizing art supplies, and other painting preparation duties.

Sharon adds that the participant is not only learning technical skills, but job readiness skills, as well. “She’s learning the importance of good communication skills and taking initiative—and it shows in her eagerness to learn new skills.”

As an employer and community leader, Sharon recognizes the mutual benefits of this program. “I’m getting the help I need to build and organize my business and she [the Transitional Jobs participant] is building on the skills she needs to help prepare for future employment and to contribute to her community. It’s been a positive learning experience for both of us and I would definitely recommend this program to other employers.”