For the Wausau Times

WAUSAU — This summer, The Branch Academy will return to offer juniors and seniors to be an opportunity to earn college credit while showcasing their talents for business and community leaders.

Students will work weekly as a team on a challenging innovation problem presented by Northcentral Technical College. The Branch Academy will present students with an opportunity to add a real-world experience to their college applications and career portfolio.

The program’s summer session is accepting applications through May 12. Coach mentors for the program are also needed and can apply at www.thebranchwi.com/mentor-application.html.

The Branch and The Branch Academy are workforce development initiatives formed in partnership by the Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce, Northcentral Technical College and Church Mutual.

“This is an opportunity for students to enter an environment where they can apply their classroom skills and transfer it into a real-world business setting.” said Dave Eckmann, Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce president/CEO.

Students and their guests are invited to attend The Branch Academy’s Demo Day Aug. 12 at 5 p.m., in the Timberwolf Conference Center at Northcentral Technical College in Wausau. The event will include a presentation by students to the leadership team from Northcentral Technical College. Those interested in attending Demo Day should register at WausauChamber.com or RSVP by Aug. 6 to Brian Otten, marketing manager at the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce at botten@wausauchamber.com or 715-848-5947.