Empowering Tomorrow’s Workforce, Building Character Today

At Craftsman with Character®, our mission is clear: we are building an industrial workforce of young people who live and work with purpose and character.

Take the first step to transform your community – sign up for a Program Overview below:

A Semester-Long High School Program Connecting Students with Skilled Trades and Character-Building Experiences

Craftsman with Character® (CWC) is an innovative, semester-long workforce development course for high school students that prepares them for fulfilling careers in skilled trades while instilling values that support success in both work and life. Founded in 2013 by Dave Hataj of Edgerton Gear, CWC provides a structured model and curriculum that enable schools and local businesses to partner and deliver meaningful job shadowing experiences, character-building education, and mentoring within their community.

Through daily 90-minute sessions, students engage in hands-on activities, gain insights into industry practices, and build lasting relationships with mentors across various trades. For students, CWC opens doors to a future of purpose and career readiness; for businesses, it creates a pipeline of dedicated, prepared young professionals. By strengthening the workforce, CWC empowers communities, fostering economic growth and a shared commitment to building a better future.

Group of young people wearing green welding jackets, helmets, and safety glasses in a workshop setting.
Group of people posing with certificates in front of a "STOUGHTON" sign in an office setting.
Workers in a factory with safety helmets observing molten metal being poured into molds; industrial equipment and concrete molds visible.
Group of individuals wearing safety glasses standing in front of Fairbanks Morse Defense sign.
Two construction workers in safety vests operating a large excavator on a dirt site.
Two people wearing safety goggles and badges stand in a factory or workshop environment. They are in front of machinery and a tool chest, surrounded by industrial and workshop equipment.

Our Growing Footprint

From Wisconsin to beyond, this map highlights the communities where Craftsman with Character® is inspiring students through mentorship, hands-on learning, and real-world connections. Blue pins represent active CWC communities. Orange pins show communities currently in the onboarding process.

share your story

Have you been impacted by Craftsman with Character®? Whether you're a student, parent, teacher, or business partner, we’d love to hear from you.

Your stories inspire others and help grow this movement.