KTEC Schools of Innovation Puts Wisconsin on the Map in U.S. Department of Education’s CTE CHIPS Challenge

Published On: May 28th, 2025

KTEC Schools of Innovation in Kenosha has been named one of 36 semi-finalists in the U.S. Department of Education’s CTE CHIPS Challenge and is the only school in Wisconsin to advance to Phase 2 of the national competition.

The CTE CHIPS Challenge – launched in October 2024 – is a multi-phase, $1 million competition designed to expand innovative student recruitment, training, and placement strategies in semiconductor fabrication and advanced manufacturing career pathways aligned with the CHIPS and Science Act. A panel of judges selected 36 semi-finalists nationwide to advance to Phase 2, where from April through December 2025 participants will receive tailored technical assistance and join a dynamic community of practice to implement their proposed action plans.

Ktec Chips Map

KTEC Schools of Innovation is the only Wisconsin semi-finalist in the national CTE CHIPS Challenge—one of just 36 selected across the country to advance with plans to train and place students in high-demand careers.

Phase 2: Preparing Students for CHIPS-Aligned Careers

Phase 2 of the challenge focuses on turning ideas into action. As a Phase 2 semi-finalist, KTEC will refine and roll out its plan with support from challenge organizers. From now through the end of 2025, KTEC’s team will benefit from expert guidance, resources, and collaboration with peer institutions to help bring their vision to life. The ultimate goal is to better connect KTEC students with high-demand careers in the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industries, in line with the CHIPS Act’s workforce development objectives.

Dr. Angela Andersson, Founder of KTEC Schools of Innovation, expressed excitement about the honor. “Being the only school in Wisconsin to advance to Phase 2 of the CTE CHIPS Challenge is a tremendous honor for our community and a testament to our students and staff,” said Dr. Andersson. “We are thrilled to continue expanding our innovative programs and partnerships through this opportunity. Our students are gaining the skills and experiences they need to thrive in advanced manufacturing fields, and we couldn’t be more excited to lead the way for Wisconsin.”

KTEC’s Innovative Program and Diverse Student Body

KTEC Schools of Innovation is a tuition-free public charter school serving grades 4K–12 in Kenosha, focused on hands-on learning and career readiness in science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing. KTEC High School, opened in 2022, integrates industry-recognized certifications directly into its curriculum. The school serves a diverse student population, including approximately 60% of students from low-income families and 10% English learners. This inclusive approach ensures that traditionally underrepresented groups have access to high-quality technical education and career opportunities.

All KTEC students follow career and technical education (CTE) pathways, earning certifications in key technologies starting in 9th grade. Early courses like Bionics, Mechatronics, and Exploring Electricity are built into core science classes. As students advance, they study robotics, PLCs, and sensor technology in junior year, followed by fluid power and mechanical systems in senior year—graduating with industry-recognized credentials. Developed in partnership with the National Coalition of Certification Centers and global industry leaders like Festo, these certifications align with real-world workforce needs. With support from the CTE CHIPS Challenge, KTEC will expand its offerings to include semiconductor manufacturing and Industry 4.0—giving students even more hands-on experience in automation and electronics.

Strong Industry Partnerships Fuel Success

KTEC’s success in the CHIPS Challenge is strengthened by strong industry partnerships—especially with Festo Didactic, a global leader in automation technology and technical education. Festo has been instrumental in advancing KTEC’s vision for workforce readiness and highlights the critical need for skilled talent in the region’s growing manufacturing sector. “Through our collaboration, KTEC will play a pivotal role in supplying a diverse and highly skilled workforce essential for the effective installation, operation, and maintenance of the latest automation technology,” said Steven Lehr, Director of Business Development. He added, “This synergy holds great potential to significantly enhance productivity and drive growth in local industries.”

As part of the partnership, KTEC is creating a new advanced manufacturing Center of Excellence at its campus, outfitted with Festo’s state-of-the-art automation equipment and training resources. This collaboration gives students hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies – from robotics and pneumatic systems to digital controls – in a real-world lab setting. By working directly with industry-standard tools and curricula, KTEC students gain practical skills that align perfectly with the modern job market, inspiring them to explore careers in robotics, engineering, and semiconductor technology. Festo Didactic’s support, alongside partnerships with other companies and organizations, is helping KTEC build a truly interdisciplinary program that connects classroom learning to the needs of local and national industries.

A Celebratory Milestone for Kenosha’s Education Community

KTEC Schools of Innovation’s selection as a semi-finalist in the CTE CHIPS Challenge showcases the significance of investing in innovative education. It shines a spotlight on Kenosha as a leader in cultivating homegrown high-tech talent. “This recognition is not only about KTEC – it’s a win for our whole community,” Dr. Andersson noted. “When our students succeed, our local industries and economy succeed. We’re excited to represent Wisconsin in this national effort and to continue forging pathways for our kids into the careers of the future.”

About KTEC Schools of Innovation:
KTEC Schools of Innovation, a public charter school in Kenosha, Wisconsin, redefines education by integrating academic excellence, technical education, and career readiness. Serving students in grades 4K–12, KTEC equips learners for an ever-changing world through hands-on, project-based learning and strong community partnerships.

KTEC is now enrolling students and invites families to attend the upcoming open house on June 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. The school offers career pathways aligned with the most in-demand industries in Kenosha County, giving students a competitive edge and real-world skills that matter.

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