Mid-State expands meat-cutting program with state grant extension

Metro Wire Staff

CENTRAL WISCONSIN – Mid-State Technical College is expanding its meat cutting and butchery programming after receiving an extension of its Meat Talent Development Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

The grant will allow the college to continue tuition support for students through June 2026 and launch an Advanced Meat Cutting and Butchery technical diploma program. A certificate program offered entirely in Spanish is also in development.

“This grant extension reaffirms our commitment to meeting the needs of our community,” said Dr. Alex Lendved, dean of Mid-State’s 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.”

Lendved said the Spanish-language certificate program is part of a broader effort to make meat-cutting education more accessible and inclusive.

“Our goal is to ensure that everyone has access to high-quality meat-cutting education,” he said. “This program will empower individuals from diverse backgrounds, enhance workforce options and address industry shortages.”

The expanded grant will also support partnerships with K-12 schools to explore dual credit opportunities and develop transfer agreements. The college plans to integrate the new offerings with its Culinary Arts program and other meat and butchery training across the state.

For more information or to apply, visit mstc.edu/meat-cutting-and-butchery.