Blackhawk Magazine: Winter/Spring 2026

Winter/Spring 2026

BLACKHAWK MAGAZINE FEATURED INSIDE: Alumna Maddie Dobbs’ Journey Dental Clinic Expands & Honors Local Family Earn Credit for Prior Learning Student & Faculty Spotlights Commencement Photos and more…

Aligning Passion with Purpose

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In This Issue

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4 Blackhawk Alumna: Maddie Dobbs 5 Driving Success: How Wyatt Marshall Leads by Example 6 Dental Clinic Adds Capacity; Open to Public 7 Dental Lab Honors Local Family 8 Student Profiles: Brooke Girard + Thaddeus Sieger 10 Earn Credit for Prior Learning 12 Kelsey Doyle Leads Allied Health Programs 14 Continuing to Inspire: Kelsea Anderson Memorial Scholarship 15 Air Quality Monitoring Program 16 December Commencement 19 RUHS is Getting Noticed 20 Blackhawk on the Rise

Winter/Spring 2026

WINTER/SPRING 2026 MAGAZINE Editor-in-Chief Cassie Hartje Managing Editor, Reporter Ryan Kanable Art Director, Photographer Amanda Urish Contributing Designer, Photographer Angie Kablar Digital Editor Dave von Falkenstein Contributing Editor Carrie Arnold

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Message from the PRESIDENT

Nine years ago, Blackhawk Technical College launched a strategic plan built on a vision to deliver innovative education that enriches our community. Coupled with the plan is a mission focused on meeting our students where they are at by providing flexible educational options that support their success. As enrollment, student success, and community engagement on campus rise along with growing support for the Blackhawk Foundation, we are excited to see tangible results of this focus. For the fifth year in a row, the Janesville Gazette named the College “Best of the Best” in higher education for our region. We thank you for your recognition of the work we are doing to build a better Blackhawk.

Included in the strategy was a master facility plan envisioning a reduction of the College’s footprint from five Rock County campuses to one. The completion of the new Public Safety and Transportation Complex and opening the Innovative Manufacturing Education Center (IMEC) on the Beloit-Janesville Campus complete the last phase—consolidating programming and services in Rock County while highlighting the quality of educational opportunities available.

Not only does a single campus better serve all of Rock County, but the consolidation opens the door to focus on our second campus in Monroe. To prepare, the College completed a concentrated planning process for Green County in collaboration with the Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission team. This effort culminated in an action plan to invest and grow services in Green County. Two early examples of new investment include the establishment of a dedicated nursing program in partnership with SSM Health Monroe and an industrial maintenance program to support the manufacturing sector.

As we near completion of the strategic plan, Blackhawk's District Board kicked off a new strategic planning process at a retreat in March. Beginning in May and continuing through November, key internal and external

stakeholders engaged in planning sessions and focus groups to gather input on the future of the College.

This work marks the start of a comprehensive planning process that will conclude in an updated strategic plan in spring 2026 that will propel the College into the future.

As we transform from our traditional technical college roots into a comprehensive college serving our community, we are evolving our image through expanding programs, increasing services, and developing facilities. Our partnership with the School District of Janesville and Rock University High School (RUHS) exemplifies how the College is changing to better serve our region. Located on the Beloit-Janesville Campus and celebrating its 10-year anniversary, RUHS was named a top 20 high school in the state of Wisconsin by U.S. News & World Report and was rated “Significantly Exceeds Expectations” by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. RUHS is the only high school in Rock County to earn that rating. Our common goal for RUHS to become the best public high school in the state is within reach.

The College is transforming programmatically with the growth of our new Associate of Arts and Associate of Science transfer programs; through services to students with athletics and student housing; collaboratively through growth of bachelor’s degree offerings with our University Center partners; and visually through renovation and new construction projects.

We are excited to share the stories of our students, faculty and staff, and highlight the impact your college has on our community as we continue to develop the workforce of today and tomorrow, fulfilling our mission to provide a flexible education in a supportive environment to communities in Rock and Green counties.

Tracy Pierner, Ph.D. President, Blackhawk Technical College blackhawk.edu

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Blackhawk Alumna:

MADDIE DOBBS ‘Agvocating’ and Educating

Between La Crosse and Black River Falls in Wisconsin, there are two small towns called Melrose and Mindoro that share a school district.

Teaching in that district is Blackhawk Technical College alumna Maddie Dobbs.

“I began my journey at Blackhawk Technical College in 2016 studying Agribusiness Science and Technology,” Dobbs said. “After graduating, I moved to westcentral Wisconsin to be closer to my now-husband’s family farm.

I’ve worked in several areas of the agriculture industry—from serving as a secretary at a local co-op to working in agricultural technology.”

Her true passion In July 2023, a few years after graduating, she took a chance and ended up discovering her “forever career” teaching agriculture, Dobbs explained.

degree. But in Wisconsin, it’s possible to earn a teaching license based on previous industry experience. My participation in Blackhawk’s Postsecondary Agriculture Students (PAS) program helped me realize that my true passion was in ‘agvocating’— educating and inspiring others about the importance of agriculture. Now, I get to do that every day in my classroom!”

Dobbs now teaches sevenththrough 12th-grade agriculture classes and is an advisor for the National FFA Organization, or FFA. What began as a love for agriculture at a young age on her grandparents’ small dairy farm has blossomed into a dream career that allows her to give back to the industry.

Education close to home “I was excited to find a program close to home that aligned with my passion for agriculture. The Agribusiness program offered

I was excited to find a program close to home that aligned with my passion for agriculture. The Agribusiness program offered at the Monroe campus was the perfect fit.

—Maddie Dobbs

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“Many people are surprised to learn that I was able to become an agriculture teacher with a two-year

at the Monroe campus was the perfect fit—it allowed me to pursue my education without the additional expense of student housing, and it offered hands-on, real-world agricultural training,” Dobbs said. “Watching my family

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work hard to care for the land, animals and their community gave me an appreciation for the agricultural industry and the people who make it thrive.”

Students interested in a career in agriculture should not be afraid to take the less traditional path, Dobbs shared.

“Every experience you gain—on the farm, in the classroom, or through internships—adds value to your story. The agriculture industry is full of opportunities (ones you are not even aware of) for people with passion and drive, regardless of where you start. Stay curious, keep learning, and always take a tiny step outside your comfort zone.”

Thankful and busy Immensely appreciative of the opportunities provided

by Blackhawk, Dobbs said the program gave her technical skills as well as personal and professional growth.

“Blackhawk was the starting point for a career that allows me to give back to the industry that shaped who I am today, and I will forever be grateful for that,” she said.

These days, Dobbs and her family stay busy in the agricultural community, spending time outdoors, helping out on their family farm, and fulfilling requests from their 2-year-old to “see cows.”

She is also active in her local FFA alumni chapter and participates in community events.

DRIVING SUCCESS

How Wyatt Marshall Leads

by Example Wyatt Marshall, a Blackhawk Technical College student in the Agribusiness Science and Technology program, consistently led the Talons Men’s Golf team this fall, ending the season as a clear leader.

Coach Nick Hagen said it's been a privilege to have the opportunity to work with someone of Wyatt's level who, in addition to being a good teammate, is always looking to improve his own game.

“There's a lot of talent there, and he hits the ball as well as anyone I've been around,” Hagen said. “What I like most about Wyatt is, though he's a very good player, he wants to get better. His teammates see his drive to improve, and it makes them want to improve also. It's leading by example at its finest, and it has such a positive impact on the team.” blackhawk.edu

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Renovations Add Capacity to Blackhawk’s Dental Clinic In 2025, Blackhawk Technical College updated and expanded the Dental Clinic on its Beloit-Janesville Campus through $2 million in grant funding from a Wisconsin Oral Health Education Grant plus a Delta Dental grant.

The renovation work expanded the clinic from six permanent treatment areas to 11 while two mobile treatment areas, which had significant ergonomic and 6

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accessibility limitations, were eliminated. Additionally, sterilization capacity was doubled, intraoral imaging equipment was upgraded, two glycine air polishers and a second dental laser were installed, and a large study and collaboration area was added for students.

The clinic now has more flexible scheduling options with increased hours for patient care.

“Supervised patient care is an

essential part of students’ education,” Lisa Johnson, Blackhawk’s Dental Hygienist Program Director and Lead Instructor, explained. “The goal is to make it more convenient and welcoming for patients from the community.

Growing program Blackhawk has operated a successful, accredited Dental Assistant program since 1977. The Dental Hygienist program was added in 2022, and the campus clinic opened for patient care in spring 2023. The demand for dental hygiene education is higher than ever, and the clinic’s recent

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Blackhawk’s New Dental Lab Honors Local Family Retired local dentist Dr. Gregg Dickinson, DDS, and his wife, Helen, have quietly donated more than $1.1 million since 2020 in support of Blackhawk students. To celebrate and honor their generosity, the lab inside Blackhawk’s newly updated Dental Clinic has been named after their son, Ben, who died in 2014.

The Ben Dickinson Honorary Dental Lab was introduced at a special Blackhawk Foundation event in September 2025. When the students arrived to meet the Dickinsons, one made a point to say, “Dr. Dickinson— you gave me my braces!”

“It’s not often two people like Gregg and Helen Dickinson come into your life—and when they do, you should count yourself lucky. You are a shining example of what it takes to be a part of this community,” Executive Director of Advancement and Foundation Cassie Hartje said.

Dr. Dickinson practiced pediatric dentistry in Janesville from 1976 until 2013. His wife worked as a dental assistant with him for years, then went on to become a travel agent working for AAA Travel.

Dental Clinic is Open to the Public HOURS Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closed for spring, summer and winter breaks

COST • Seniors ages 65+: $20 • Adults and teens ages 14+: $30 • Children ages 3-13: $20 • Infants ages 0-2: FREE

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT Call: (608) 743-4402 Email: dental@blackhawk.edu NOTE: Due to the instructional nature of the facility, appointment times are 2-3 hours in length, and multiple appointments may be required to complete treatment.

expansion enabled Blackhawk to increase annual enrollment in the Dental Hygienist program by 20%, Johnson shared.

“We currently have 14 dental assistant students,” Johnson said.

“Up to 18 may enroll each year. We also have 22 dental hygienist students.”

The students are excited about the increased number of clinical treatment areas, she said, and the additional sterilization space helps keep the clinic organized, safe and clean. blackhawk.edu

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BROOKE

GIRARD

Dental Hygienist Student

WHERE FLEXIBILITY MEETS OPPORTUNITY Brooke Girard Chose Blackhawk to Achieve Her Goals

“It is OK to find your own path,” Brooke Girard, a first-year Dental Hygienist student, said.

Girard chose to attend Blackhawk Technical College because it offered a way for her to continue her education in Blackhawk’s Dental Hygienist program while still gaining experience as a dental assistant.

“I started working full-time as a dental assistant while waiting to petition for the Dental Hygienist program, and I realized how much I love being able to interact with so many different people and help them not only with their oral health issues, but 8

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by being someone who can listen compassionately to their problems when they feel they have nobody to talk to,” she said.

Girard attended a four-year university after high school, but quickly realized it wasn’t the right place for her. She got a job at a dental office and “fell in love with it,” she explained. That experience led her to enroll at Blackhawk.

“I love the flexibility that Blackhawk offers so no matter what a student has going on, they are able to pursue their education.

I have also found all my instructors to be very kind and considerate and willing to work with their

students to help them succeed,” Girard said.

Girard notes life circumstances should not stop you from achieving your goals.

“Investigate all the options for courses and degrees that Blackhawk offers because there is something for everyone, no matter what your personal life looks like.”

She plans to graduate in 2027 and then begin work as a dental hygienist in a clinical setting.

She also wants to travel, starting with the Pacific Northwest or Canada.

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Blackhawk Student Thaddeus Sieger Cooks Up a New Path At 64, Air Force veteran Thaddeus Sieger is embarking on a new mission to enter the culinary field full-time. He already earned his Blackhawk associate degree in Culinary Arts and will complete his work on a Business Management Specialist diploma in May 2026.

Sieger was born in Kenosha, moved to Fond du Lac, then moved again to attend high school in West Bend.

He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1979 until 1984 as a masonry specialist. He was stationed in Italy, Washington, D.C., and Montana.

Once out of the military, Sieger continued working in the construction field in Montana. But in time, his thoughts turned to cooking up a different future.

“I chose Blackhawk because I heard about the great culinary program and the instructors here. Cooks

are in very high demand nowadays, plus the cost is very manageable,” he said. “The atmosphere is unreal here, and the people that work around campus are friendly and courteous. The groups here help a person connect with others who share the same educational goals as themselves. If you have any questions, you just need to ask, and someone will know someone with the answers.”

Studying at Blackhawk taught him patience and good study habits, Sieger shared. It also allowed him to build a few connections.

“The courses are well planned for you to complete your degree and learn all the latest things associated with your career choice. Through my involvement with the veterans group here at Blackhawk, I have been able to go to the Student Veterans of

Air Force veteran Thaddeus Sieger, a Blackhawk Culinary Arts graduate, is ready to spice up his next career chapter.

America conference and meet other student veterans who share their experiences and hardships.

Through this, I also made several new contacts in the academic world and a few political ones, also,” he said.

“My advice to anyone who wants to learn about different foods and cultures is to enroll in the culinary program. You will eat amazing food and meet interesting people along the way. Also, if you are a veteran or National Guardsman/Reservist, use your benefits and meet others who have also served. Friendships will last a lifetime.” blackhawk.edu

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Credit for Prior Learning Reduces Time, Cost for Blackhawk Students James Joyce wrote in his novel “Ulysses” that “To learn, one must be humble. But life is the great teacher.”

While that may be true, translating life’s teachings into college credits isn’t always easy, and Blackhawk Technical College is working to make this process simpler.

Dr. Kelley Grorud, Registrar, said, “The goals of a credit for prior learning system are to acknowledge that students can acquire knowledge, skills and competencies through a variety of education, work-based and life experiences. Credit for prior learning is about honoring educational experiences that

for prior learning if they meet certain requirements. This helps students reach their goals faster.

Lilly Noble, an Early Childhood Education student at Blackhawk who went through the process to get credit for prior learning, said, “I was able to receive credit for three classes—it shrunk my graduation time. It was really nice.

Credit for prior learning is about honoring educational experiences that occur outside the Blackhawk classroom. It helps students accelerate time to completion and decrease the cost of their degree. —Dr. Kelley Grorud

occur outside the Blackhawk classroom. It helps students accelerate time to completion and decrease the cost of their degree.”

With a diverse population of learners, the Registrar’s Office takes life experiences into consideration when new students begin taking classes. Whether through post-secondary classwork, work experience, military training, certifications or licenses, special high school coursework, apprenticeship or an exam, Blackhawk students can get credit 10

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It progressed me forward in a good way, and that way I can just keep trekking along.”

Noble, who works full-time at a Janesville daycare and has been working in childcare for several years, hopes to have her own classroom after completing her associate degree.

“I want to be able to teach 2-yearolds or 3-year-olds or even 4-yearolds. And that has been a dream of mine since I was young. So just for it to be reality in a couple of

semesters, it makes me proud,” Noble said.

In order for a student to get credit for learning attained outside of Blackhawk, a student must work in tandem with Blackhawk staff members. Life experiences get documented into a portfolio, which is developed with support from a faculty expert and the student’s advisor. When completed, the portfolio is submitted to the Registrar’s Office to record the credit and administer a $90 portfolio fee.

Study insights A summer 2025 study done by Blackhawk’s Credit for Prior Learning Continuous Process Improvement, or CPI, team showcased the efforts of Blackhawk’s Early Childhood Education program. That program’s process guides students through developing a portfolio.

Michelle Weirich, Early Childhood Education Instructor, said students need considerable coaching to provide all the required materials for course credit as the course credit must meet Department of Public Instruction guidelines in order to transfer.

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Instructor Michelle Weirich, standing, played an integral role in helping alumna Lilly Noble accelerate her path through Credit for Prior Learning.

accelerating my journey and empowering me to pursue continued growth and success in the field with confidence and purpose.”

Next steps forward The CPI team’s recommendations from the study are now moving forward into action. An implementation team has been established to start applying the improvements to Blackhawk’s credit for prior learning process.

Two pilot programs are underway.

Each will identify a point of contact for student questions, implement the recommendations from the CPI team, and track data so Blackhawk leaders can learn how to scale up the process for other programs.

Weirich is supporting both programs and considers herself an advocate for credit for prior learning.

“On average, students took approximately 10 to 12 hours to complete the portfolio, though this varied depending on the student's writing ability, familiarity with the content, confidence, and access to supporting materials,” Weirich said. “Faculty members also spent five to 10 hours per student providing guidance, reviewing portfolio submissions, offering feedback and participating in assessment and evaluation,” she explained.

The CPI team contacted students who had used the Early Childhood Education program process to see how it had impacted their educational experience.

Noble told the team, “Having my prior workforce experience recognized for college credit not only affirmed the value of my years in early childhood education, but also gave me a strong academic foundation to build on. It bridged the gap between real-world practice and higher education,

“I am passionate about expanding access to credit for prior learning and empowering students through recognition of their work,” she said.

Noble encouraged students to go through the process.

“Give it a try,” she said. “Make sure you take your time to look over the questions. And don't be afraid to ask questions because your teachers want you to succeed just as much as you do. So, just give it a whirl!”

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Doyle Leads Allied Health Programs Along with a love of health care education, Kelsey Doyle brings a breadth of expertise and infectious passion to her new leadership role as the Allied Health Administrative Chair.

“What drew me to the position most was the combination of education, health care and leadership. I’ve always been passionate about helping people succeed, whether that’s patients receiving quality care or students preparing for their future careers. This role allows me to have the best of both worlds—shaping programs that strengthen the health care workforce while mentoring students and faculty to reach their goals,” Doyle said.

After receiving her undergraduate degree in diagnostic medical sonography from Concordia University of Wisconsin, Doyle took a role at a maternal fetal medicine department in Madison, Wis., as a perinatal sonographer. She then earned a master’s degree in adult education at Colorado State University.

As a speaker at several regional and national ultrasound conferences, her experience in high-risk obstetrics has benefited countless patients as well as current and future health care professionals.

Doyle said she believes the significant evolution of health care education, with a strong emphasis on technology, simulation and hands-on training, will better prepare students for real-world clinical environments.

“Blackhawk is deeply invested in its community, and that commitment is evident. The college provides high-quality teaching and training that equip students with the skills they need to succeed in the local workforce,” Doyle said.

At home, Doyle and her husband, Trevor, have two children, Miles and Collins, who keep them busy. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading a good book with some iced coffee, and traveling.

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A NEW FACE in First Response Gurkirat Toor, or "G" to his students, is Blackhawk’s new Fire and EMS Program Coordinator.

Toor spent over a decade in California working as a firefighter and paramedic and has been involved in fire and EMS education since 2016.

The Sacramento, Calif., native holds a bachelor of science degree in healthcare administration and master of business in public administration. Toor is also currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program in educational leadership.

“I want to effect growth and positive change in the fire and EMS industry. Those changes begin in the classroom,” Toor said.

Outside of work, Toor is married, and the couple has a son on the way. He enjoys playing basketball and spending time with his family. He’s also a big advocate of mental health awareness for first responders. blackhawk.edu

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CONTINUING

toInspire

Eric Pearson Awarded Kelsea Anderson Memorial Scholarship In only 23 years, Kelsea Anderson left an imprint on countless lives through her radiant kindness, tenacity and quiet leadership.

She was passionate about helping others—especially through her work as a physical therapist assistant.

Through the Kelsea Anderson Memorial Scholarship at Blackhawk Technical College, Anderson continues to inspire.

Established in 2018 by OrthoIllinois, this scholarship supports students in Blackhawk's Physical Therapist Assistant program. Anderson was a Blackhawk alumna and a valued member of the OrthoIllinois team.

She passed away in a car accident on New Year’s Day in 2018.

“She was a dedicated therapist and the epitome of a Blackhawk student,” said Heather Riley, an OrthoIllinois physical therapist assistant who worked with Anderson. “She had a love of life, learning and adventure, and was a world-class Rock Aqua Jays ski team member.”

During a reception at OrthoIllinois in August 2025 honoring Anderson and celebrating the eighth recipient

of the Kelsea Anderson Memorial Scholarship, it was shared that the same qualities that set Anderson apart as a person and a professional are reflected in this year’s recipient, Eric Pearson.

“Eric is looked up to by his classmates, and he has really taken a role as a quiet leader. He wants to learn and explore, and he is passionate about this,” Enid Halewyn, Administrative Chair for Physical Therapist Assistant & Health Occupations at Blackhawk, said.

Pearson was praised for his dedication to the field coupled with unmatched energy and positivity

by Kayce Visger, Physical Therapist Assistant Instructor at Blackhawk.

She said, “This has really come full circle. Eric is exactly like Kelsea was.”

Pearson is no stranger to professions focused on helping others. He is in his second year of the program after retiring from a career in law enforcement. He is also an Army veteran. Following graduation in May 2026, Pearson plans to start working.

The Blackhawk Foundation is honored to be a part of stewarding Kelsea’s legacy. If you would like to learn more about setting up a scholarship in honor or memory of your loved one, contact the Foundation at (608) 757-7704.

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Eric Pearson (right) puts classroom knowledge to practice on fellow student Derek Ping (left).

“Long-term, I would like to further my education and specialize in chronic pain and lower back disorders to help people return to work or enjoy their lives as best as they can,” Pearson said. "Once I have more experience, I’d like to help out with students in the future.”

When asked what drew him to the physical therapist profession, Pearson explained, “I have had experience with both good and bad physical therapy. The last therapist I saw inspired me to get into this field, as I saw the difference good physical therapy can make. The program at Blackhawk is awesome. It continually develops, everyone is top-notch and specializes in their field.”

At the close of the reception, Pearson said, “Thank you so much for this scholarship. Just hearing what I have about her today, I have a really big role to fill. I am honored to receive her scholarship, and I will do my best to follow Kelsea’s example of an exceptional PTA and person.”

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BLACKHAWK JOINS AIR QUALITY MONITORING PROGRAM Knowing the health of its community is paramount, Blackhawk joined a network of outdoor air quality monitoring sites to help collect data in Rock County.

Through a Wisconsin Department of Health Services “Taking Action with Data” mini-grant, Rock County Public Health implemented a county-wide outdoor air monitoring program in August 2024.

Outdoor air monitors were installed at 10 schools—including Blackhawk—to continuously record PM2.5, which is particulate matter present in the air that is 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter. Rock County Public Health provided the sensor for each location.

Karen Schmitt, Blackhawk’s Vice President of Academic Affairs, said, “Citizen-science data collection systems to monitor environmental changes are widespread and are an opportunity to connect our students to real issues of public health and environmental health.”

Rock County does not have an Environmental Protection Agency or Department of Natural Resources monitor for PM2.5, explained Rick Wietersen, Rock County’s Environmental Health Manager.

“So, in the past, we were dependent on data provided from monitors in Madison or other counties in Wisconsin that are not that close to us. Although these low-cost air monitors that we have installed are not regulatory, it is hoped that the data they produce will be available for the DNR to evaluate when making future decisions on where EPA monitors should be installed in Wisconsin.”

Wietersen added that the timing has been great to have the monitors installed due to the Canadian wildfire smoke that reached Wisconsin.

“There definitely were some very elevated levels on several days,” he said. “We will be doing monthly evaluations of the data to determine if there are any other incidents or differences across the county that may warrant further evaluation.”

The air-monitoring sensor at Blackhawk is about the size of a softball and shares real-time data that is shared publicly online.

All the data is shared to a website run by PurpleAir, Inc., a company based in Draper, Utah, that shows air quality information from around the globe. Each location has a direct link to the PurpleAir Map to view real-time sensor data for each location. blackhawk.edu

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We did it!

maz

an a t a h W

ent!

hievem c a g in

Commencement

Blackhawk Technical College held a commencement ceremony on Dec. 16, celebrating more than 90 graduates.

The event was held at Blackhawk’s Beloit-Janesville Campus.

Featured speakers included Avery Bohm, WTCS Ambassador, and Kiara Magana, Early Childhood Education graduate.

For commencement photos and video, visit blackhawk.edu/commencement

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Congrats! :)

So Proud of Yo

u!

INTERESTED IN JOINING THE NEW ALUMNI ASSOCIATION? Contact the Blackhawk Foundation at btcfoundation@blackhawk.edu

esome!!

You did aw

blackhawk.edu

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Lily Wallace Graduates Three Times in 2025 In our last issue, we shared how Lily Wallace was attending Rock University High School and taking Blackhawk Technical College courses at the same time.

Now, she is a graduate of both plus Blackhawk’s Law Enforcement Academy.

“I've been interested in law enforcement since I was very young and started watching police shows,” Wallace said.

Wallace graduated from Blackhawk’s Criminal Justice associate degree program in May, then graduated from Rock University High School in June, and then graduated from the Law Enforcement Academy in December. That means she had three graduations in 2025.

If that sounds like a lot, it is. At 19 years old, Wallace isn’t slowing down. She is getting an early jump on her law enforcement career and was hired by the City of Beloit Police Department after her latest graduation as one of four new officers.

“My biggest challenge was probably the high school/college balance. It was definitely a learning curve doing both at the same time,” she shared. The Janesville native said she plans to start working in law enforcement and eventually get a bachelor's degree.

Lily Wallace earned the Outstanding Physical Fitness Award, which was presented at her graduation from Blackhawk’s Law Enforcement Academy.

Talons Spring Season Preview Blackhawk Technical College is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association and offers a variety of sports programs. The Talons compete in Region IV, Division II of the NJCAA. “We’re looking forward to our spring season,” Athletic Director Nile Finney said. “Our coaches and athletes are building momentum and creating a culture of teamwork and sportsmanship.”

This spring, students can participate in: Men’s Golf Bowling Clay Target Shooting Game and competition schedules are available at athletics.blackhawk.edu

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RUHS is Getting Noticed Rock University High School shares Blackhawk Technical College’s Beloit-Janesville Campus. In 2025, the charter school earned important accolades.

RUHS was named No. 20 in Wisconsin high school rankings by U.S. News and World Report in October 2025.

Then in November 2025, the RUHS state report card from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction listed the school as “Significantly Exceeds Expectations,” making it the only high school in Rock County to earn that rating.

Congratulations to RUHS! Patty Hernandez is the principal of RUHS, a charter school in the School District of Janesville and a partner of Blackhawk Technical College.

The Talons bowling team celebrates a strike, golfer Koen Lueck gets set to tee off, and clay target shooting team member Jillian Schue takes aim.

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NEWS Round Up

BLACKHAWKon the Rise — Advancing the future with renewed vision, opportunity and impact. —

Blackhawk Sees Steady Enrollment Growth

Bachelor’s Degree Pathways Expanded

With fall 2025 enrollments increasing 7.5% over fall 2024, Blackhawk Technical College has seen enrollment increase more than 26% since 2022:

Blackhawk Technical College and Beloit College have entered into a new partnership agreement, which makes transferring from Blackhawk to Beloit College to pursue a four-year degree easier for students. A signing event was held at Blackhawk’s Beloit-Janesville Campus in October 2025 to officially launch the partnership.

• 2022: 3,315 • 2023: 3,626 • 2024: 3,671 • 2025: 3,964 • Projected 2026: 4,182 Blackhawk has experienced consistent growth over the past several years due to its new Talons athletics programs plus available student housing in partnership with Beloit College, according to Executive Director of Student Services Katie Lange, Ed.D. Other factors impacting enrollment include increased direct high school enrollment, the addition of university transfer programs, and newly added programs needed by local communities.

“We have also seen success working with returning students who were at Blackhawk, stepped away, and are interested in returning to finish their academic goals,” Lange said.

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"This collaboration represents a major step forward in supporting our students and our region," said Dr. Tracy Pierner, President of Blackhawk Technical College.

"Bachelor’s degree attainment in

Rock and Green Counties trails both the national and state average. By creating seamless pathways to these degrees, we can help close this gap, strengthen the regional talent pool, boost business competitiveness, and drive economic growth."

In 2023, Blackhawk announced groundbreaking partnerships with three Wisconsin universities to make the path to a bachelor’s degree easier for its students. Now, Beloit College is the fourth. The new partnership makes Beloit College a Tier 1 partner with Blackhawk. For students, that means credits earned at Blackhawk will transfer through new articulation pathways to Beloit College and be fully counted.

In October 2025, Blackhawk entered into a new partnership agreement with Beloit College, which makes it easier for Blackhawk students to transfer to Beloit College to pursue a four-year degree.

NEWS Round Up

BLACKHAWK MAGAZINE

Blackhawk’s Auto Program Gains ASE Accreditation Blackhawk is proud to announce the Automotive Technician program has been granted ASE accreditation through the ASE Education Foundation.

“This accreditation demonstrates to the industry, students and other stakeholders that we are committed to excellence and the support of our students to succeed in the real world,” Automotive Instructor John Hayes said.

The five-step accreditation is engineered to evaluate a school’s automotive service program—its structure, processes, resources, materials and mission. ASE Education Foundation performs a thorough, strategic review and offers accreditation to programs that meet the requirements of the industry’s instructional standards.

New Industrial Maintenance Training in Monroe Green County residents are now able to take advantage of industrial maintenance-related courses at Blackhawk Technical College’s Monroe Campus. This type of training was highlighted as an area of interest in Green County

when Blackhawk’s Workforce and Community Development team conducted an employer training needs survey in late 2024.

Employers in the county were informed of the new opportunity late in summer 2025, and two companies have already enrolled employees in classes.

blackhawk.edu

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BLACKHAWK MAGAZINE

OUR Degree & Diploma Programs

Blackhawk Technical College offers a variety of degree and diploma programs designed to help you build skills, gain experience, and reach your goals. Explore your options and find the path that’s right for you.

UNIVERSITY TRANSFER

EDUCATION

MANAGEMENT & ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Associate of Arts

Child Care Services

Associate of Science

Early Childhood Education

Administrative Professional

Foundations of Teacher Education

Administrative Support Professional

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology (HVAC/R) Automation Systems Technology CNC Machine Operator/Programmer Computer Numeric Control Tech.

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FINANCIAL SERVICES ▲

Dental Assistant Dental Hygienist

Flux Cored Arc Welding

Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology

Gas Metal Arc Welding Gas Tungsten Arc Welding

Technical Studies - Journeyworker Welding ▲

AGRICULTURE

Human Services Associate

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PUBLIC SERVICE & SAFETY Advanced Emergency Medical Technician ▲

Criminal Justice Studies Emergency Medical Technician

Medical Coder

Fire Protection Technician

Medical Laboratory Technician

Law Enforcement Basic Jail Academy

Nursing

Law Enforcement Basic Recruit Academy

Nursing Assistant Nutrition and Dietetic Technician

Agribusiness Science & Tech.

Phlebotomy Technician ▲

Digital Marketing

Medical Assistant

Agribusiness Management Tech.

Farm Business & Production Management

MARKETING & SALES

Health Information Management ▲

Leadership Development Medical Administrative Specialist

Funeral Service

Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Welding Fabrication & Robotics

Individualized Technical Studies ▲

Behavior Technician

Entry Maintenance Technician

Residential HVAC

Human Resources

Accounting

HEALTHCARE & HUMAN SERVICES

Business Management Business Management Specialist

Accounting Assistant

Electro-Mechanical Technology

Manufacturing Engineering Tech.

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Physical Therapist Assistant

Paramedic Paramedic Technician

SUPPLY CHAIN & TRANSPORTATION

Radiography

Laboratory Food Science Tech.

Automotive Technician

Sterile Processing Technician

Laboratory Science Tech. Assistant

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

Substance Abuse Education

Diesel Medium & Heavy Truck Technician

CONSTRUCTION Electric Power Distribution

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IT – Helpdesk Support Specialist ▲

IT - Technical Support Specialist

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Web Software Developer

Substance Use Disorder Counselor Surgical Technology

HOSPITALITY, EVENTS & TOURISM

Supply Chain Assistant ▲

Supply Chain Management

Culinary Arts Culinary Production Line Cook

KEY

Hospitality Management

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University Center Partner Pathway

For more information about our university transfer pathways, visit blackhawk.edu/universitycenter

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Winter/Spring 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS | 2026 JANUARY 17 20

| MLK Commemoration | First Day of Classes

FEBRUARY 24 26

| Soul Food Luncheon | Health Sciences Career Fair

MARCH 16-20 | Spring Break

APRIL

Flexible Education Supportive Environment

16 21 22

| WTCS Ambassador Banquet | Senior Signing Day | Summer/Fall Registration Opens

(new students) 28 | Student Awards Banquet

MAY 2 | Behavioral Health & Wellness Fair 6 12 16

| Backyard Bash | GED Graduation | Commencement

JUNE 9

| Golden Brick Awards

ComiinngJune

First Talons Golf Outing

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID Janesville, WI PERMIT NO. 402

6004 S County Road G Janesville, WI 53546

An Affordable Start to A FOUR-YEAR DEGREE Complete your associate degree at Blackhawk and then transfer your credits directly to one of our University Partners.

Learn more at: blackhawk.edu/universitytransfer