The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) is now accepting applications for its 2026 student scholarship program, offering seven scholarships valued at a total of $29,000. Interested applicants must submit their materials by February 20, 2026, through the official application portal at WisCheeseMakers.org/Scholarships.
According to WCMA Executive Director John Umhoefer, the initiative reflects the association’s commitment to supporting the next generation of dairy industry professionals. He emphasized the importance of nurturing fresh talent and helping dedicated students build meaningful careers in the dairy sector.
Available WCMA Scholarships for 2026
1. WCMA Myron P. “Mike” Dean Cheese Industry Student Scholarship
Two students will receive $5,000 each under the Myron P. “Mike” Dean Scholarship.
Eligibility:
Employees or children of employees at WCMA dairy manufacturing, processing, or marketing member companies
Preference for students pursuing dairy-related degrees and careers
In 2025, this award was presented to Derrick Koehn of Foremost Farms USA and Cara McWilliams of Glanbia Nutritionals and Southwest Cheese.
2. WCMA Cheese Industry Supplier Student Scholarship
Three students will each receive $5,000 through this scholarship.
Eligibility:
Employees or children of employees at WCMA supplier member companies
Preference for candidates pursuing dairy industry–relevant studies
Previous 2025 winners include Macy Cook of Caloris Engineering, Natalie Curtis of Hydrite Chemical, and Riese Thornberry of BIOIONIX.
3. Brian Eggebrecht Student Scholarship (Skilled Trades)
Two students will be awarded $2,000 each.
Eligibility:
Students attending any Wisconsin technical school
High school students accepted into a Wisconsin technical school
Priority for applicants pursuing technical certificates, diplomas, or associate degrees relevant to dairy industry careers
No requirement to be connected to a WCMA member company
In 2025, this scholarship was awarded to Wesley Nelson and Neil Venhuizen.
Application Requirements
All WCMA scholarship applicants must submit:
Official school transcripts
A letter of recommendation
A completed application form
Application forms are available online at WisCheeseMakers.org/Scholarships or by contacting WCMA Programs & Policy Manager Amelia Neas at (608) 419-7913 or [email protected].
Important Dates
Application Deadline: February 20, 2026
Announcement of Winners: March 2026
Award Ceremony: April 15, 2026, at CheeseExpo in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
FAQs – WCMA Scholarships 2026
1. Who is eligible to apply for WCMA scholarships?Eligibility varies by scholarship category, with some requiring a connection to WCMA member companies and others open to any Wisconsin technical school students.
2. What is the total value of the WCMA scholarships?The 2026 program offers $29,000 across seven scholarships.
3. Do applicants need to submit supporting documents?Yes, all applicants must submit transcripts, a recommendation letter, and a completed application form.
4. Is the Eggebrecht Scholarship limited to WCMA members?No, this is the only WCMA scholarship that does not require affiliation with a WCMA member company.
5. When will scholarship winners be announced?Winners will be announced in March 2026, with awards presented on April 15 at CheeseExpo.
