Next year marks the 25th anniversary of GPS Education Partners, a nonprofit that prepares hundreds of students across Wisconsin for fulfilling careers. The organization partners with businesses and schools to provide work-based learning experiences to high school students.
These juniors and seniors have the chance to work hands-on with manufacturing, technology, and many more businesses, gaining hands-on experience in the workplace that prepares them for rewarding careers. Simultaneously, GPS Ed supports businesses and the local economy by training the talent they need to operate and creating a pipeline of prepared workers.
“We believe that a four-year college degree should not be the only measure of success. Many students seek alternative routes to fulfilling ca reers,” says Laura Derpinghaus, GPS Ed’s director of marketing and fund development.
“Through our innovative Education Center & Youth Apprenticeship Program, we connect local high school students – especially those who thrive outside traditional education – with hands-on experiences and career exploration opportunities.”
GPS Ed students don’t have to pay for their apprenticeships – the cost is covered by schools, businesses and donations. Besides the apprenticeships themselves, those donations also cover additional costs, such as transportation and wraparound services, that could otherwise prevent students from attending the program. Donations also allow GPS Ed to invest in new technologies, such as virtual reality tools, that bolster its apprenticeships.
“The generous support that comes from donors is really an opportunity for them to bring career-connected learning to students and break down some of those barriers to participate in the program,” says Derpinghaus.
What We Do
- GPS Education Partners (GPS Ed) is a nonprofit organization committed to creating equitable access to educational opportunities, ensuring all students have a pathway to succeed. It provides students with work-based learning experiences at businesses across the region.
- By partnering with businesses, schools and communities, GPS Ed bridges the gap between education and workforce readiness, empowering young people to gain valuable skills and pursue meaningful careers.
Where Your Money Goes
- Donations help close the gap in funding from businesses and schools, ensuring program costs are not passed down to families.
- Funds enable GPS Ed to invest in new technologies, equipment and learning resources.
- Contributions also go toward covering essential costs, such as transportation and meals, removing barriers that could otherwise prevent students from participating in GPS Ed programs.
GPS Education Partners
N19 W24075 Riverwood Dr., Suite 300, Waukesha | 262-226-2001
gpsed.org
