WDBSCW Initiatives Transform Youth Passion into Profession

WIOA Youth Participant Zoe Mathias Finds Long-Term Employment Through Youth Apprenticeship

Zoe Mathias (pictured on right) at SkillsUSA, where she won second place in Welding Sculpture.

Zoe Mathias always had a creative spark and a passion for working with her hands. Her curiosity led her to discover welding and sculpting — a hobby that quickly became a powerful skill. What started as an interest soon turned into a talent, which didn’t go unnoticed.

Zoe stood out at the 2024 SkillsUSA State Conference, a competition showcasing students’ talents in technical education and career readiness. As one of just 12 students representing Monona Grove High School, she competed against 1,600 peers from across the state and earned an impressive second place in Welding Sculpture.

As a junior, Zoe began exploring career options. She connected with our WIOA Youth Career Planner, who helped her to secure a subsidized WIOA-funded work experience as a Welding Apprentice at Custom Metals in Madison, Wisconsin.

Upon completion of her Youth Apprenticeship at Custom Metals, Zoe was offered a permanent position there as a Welder/Metal Fabricator.

The opportunity gave her hands-on job experience along with needed wraparound support. She was able to receive safety equipment, transportation assistance, and financial education to help her plan for future goals like buying a car. 

Building on that momentum, Zoe worked with her WIOA Youth Career Planner to apply for the Youth Apprenticeship Program. Administered by the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin (WDBSCW), this program allows juniors and seniors to gain work-based learning and earn industry-recognized credentials while completing their high school graduation requirements. 

Custom Metals saw Zoe’s potential and supported her as a Youth Apprentice. Upon completing the program, they offered her a permanent position— an opportunity she describes as “a perfect fit.” 

“It feels so good to come to work every day and know I’m doing something I love,” Zoe shared. “I’m proud of what I create, and I’m excited to keep learning and growing.”

Looking ahead, Zoe is preparing to begin coursework at Madison College this fall. She’ll pursue a certification in metal fabrication — another step she credits to the continued mentorship and encouragement she received from her WIOA Youth Career Planner. They also helped her navigate financial aid, college application and admission process, connecting her with the resources to make a postsecondary education affordable.

With access to supportive mentors, structured workforce pathways offered through the WIOA Youth Program and the Youth Apprenticeship program, Zoe's building a career she loves— and a future that’s set.