What is the Certified Co-op Program?

Wisconsin Certified Co-op is a statewide elective program for high school seniors that combines academic and technical classroom instruction with mentored on-the-job training.  It is an opportunity for students to experience a career while still in high school.  This program is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) as a part of Career and Technical Education.

Students attend their home high school and continue taking courses that are required for graduation.  Students also take related technical course work, which follows industry standards and is delivered at their high school.

The student employed in a paid position for 10-20 hours per week during the school year.  The employer pays the student, provides workmen’s compensation, training according to the competency checklist and mentoring.

Students who master the competencies and graduate from high school receive a state issued skills certificate from DPI.   

How does it work and how do students become involved?

This program works the same as the Youth Apprenticeship program and students get involved the same way by applying to the program through their high school.  The main difference is some of the certifications offered and that this is for seniors only.  Sometimes a student can be co-enrolled in both a Youth Apprenticeship and Certified Co-op depending upon the certification program.

Benefits to students

• Build a resume for career portfolio and/or college/scholarship applications
• Receive paid on-the-job training
• Develop skill set in their career field
• Complete advanced coursework in a specific career
• Earn a recognized skills certificate from the State of Wisconsin
• Develop a network of contacts in your career field