M-Cubed Work-Readiness Conference Builds Real-World Skills and Strong Employer Connections

This winter, Milwaukee Public Schools students took meaningful steps toward their future careers through the M-Cubed Work-Readiness Conference at Alverno College. Designed to give students in-person practice with real-world situations, the conference brought students together on two dates: January 14, 2026, for 11th and 12th graders, and February 25, 2026, for 9th and 10th graders.

Across both days, about 600 students attended from multiple MPS high schools. Students came away with greater confidence and practical tools they can use immediately, whether they’re preparing for their first job, an apprenticeship, a summer placement, or a long-term career path.

By structuring the day into two sessions, students could move through activities in small groups, ask questions, practice what they learned, and receive direct feedback. This turned “career readiness” from an idea into a true skill set ready to be used.

Through hands-on station rotations, students learned about resume development, financial literacy, obtaining/protecting a driver’s license, nailing the interview, finding a first job, and other work-readiness skills. Attendees also enjoyed a “Dress for Success” fashion show with samples of appropriate attire for different job types. A key feature of the event was a session on Social Capital & Networking led by Jasmine Markesha Salton from UWM. 

Volunteer community and employer partners were essential in supporting students. These mentors coached students through mock scenarios, provided resume feedback, gave examples of professional communication, and helped students understand the hiring process and workplace expectations.

The workshops were made possible by the collaboration among M-Cubed partners MPS, MATC, and UWM, along with partner organizations and outstanding employer volunteers who offered their time and expertise to students. Ultimately, the conference demonstrates what’s possible when schools and employers collaborate around a shared goal: helping students see themselves as capable, prepared, and connected to opportunity.

As Erin Cherney, Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator in the MPS Department of College & Career Readiness, shared, “We can’t assume students are ready for the workforce based solely on what they learn in the classroom. Meaningful experiences like these give students the opportunity to practice, grow, and develop the lifelong skills needed to succeed.”

We are grateful to the partners who invested their time and expertise to mentor MPS students. This involvement helps strengthen Milwaukee’s future workforce and expands what students believe is possible.

Want to get involved? Community and employer partners can support future work-readiness experiences by volunteering, hosting job shadows, offering internships, or participating in mock interviews and career exploration events. For more information, please visit this page: https://uwm.edu/m-cubed/programs/work-based-learning/