Mid-State Technical College is expanding its meat cutting and butchery programming, thanks to an extension of its Meat Talent Development Grant awarded by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). 

Building upon the success of existing initiatives, this updated grant will support expanded activities, enabling the College to implement an inclusive strategy for community access to meat training while fostering innovation and sustainability in the field. 

The expansion plan includes continuation of tuition funding for students through June 2026 and development of the Advanced Meat Cutting and Butchery technical diploma program. The new program will integrate seamlessly with Mid-State's existing programs while providing opportunities for further training. The grant will also allow Mid-State to introduce the Meat Cutting and Butchery certificate program entirely in Spanish.  

“This grant extension reaffirms our commitment to meeting the needs of our community,” said Dr. Alex Lendved, dean of the Marshfield Campus and School of Applied Technology. “We’re not only expanding educational opportunities but also paving the way for lifelong learning and career advancement in the meat industry right here in central Wisconsin.” 

With the integration of comprehensive services, the new Spanish language program reflects Mid-State’s dedication to inclusivity. “Our goal is to ensure that everyone has access to high-quality meat cutting education,” said Lendved. “This program will empower individuals from diverse backgrounds, enhance workforce options and address industry shortages.”

The grant supports strengthening partnerships with K-12 institutions by exploring dual credit opportunities. It will also focus on developing transfer agreements and fostering deeper integration with the College’s Culinary Arts program and other meat and butchery training throughout the state. These initiatives will provide students with a broad spectrum of learning pathways, ranging from continuing education to technical diplomas, to meet the evolving demands of the food and agriculture sectors.

Learn more about the Meat Cutting and Butchery certificate and apply at mstc.edu/meat-cutting-and-butchery.