Elmbrook Schools Receives $25K Grant For Fabrication Laboratory

BROOKFIELD, WI — A new grant announced Wednesday will provide the Elmbrook School District and several districts across the state with a new high-tech fabrication laboratory, according to a news release from the governor's office.

The $560,000 in grants will go toward 25 schools across the state in an effort to create the fab labs to train students in science, tech, engineering, arts and math. The labs generally include a host of computer-controlled machineries like 3D printers, laser engravers, CNC routers and plasma cutters, the news release said.

“If we want our kids to be successful, we need to make sure they have the skills and tools they need to join the 21st-century workforce,” said Gov. Tony Evers in the news release. “Fab labs are important tools to help students gain the skills, expertise, and equipment necessary to become the industry leaders of tomorrow, and we’re proud to be awarding funds to 25 school districts today so they can establish or expand their fab lab programs, which will continue to provide benefits to for students, community members, and businesses across our state.”

Districts were able to apply for up to $25,000 in funding with awards matched by each district. This year, 25 schools applied for the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation grant.

“Fab Labs allow businesses and schools to work together to provide students with STEAM education that will translate into real-world career skills,” said WEDC Secretary Missy Hughes in the release. “Fab labs benefit not only the students themselves with important technology and career skills, but they’re also a win for Wisconsin employers who will be able to find workers with the right skills to allow their companies to grow and thrive.”

In the past 8 years, the WEDC said it has put over $4.5 million into 118 schools across the Badger State in an effort to help students learn high-demand skills.