Blackhawk Magazine: Winter & Spring 2023

BLACKHAWK

PRESIDENT Message from the

Time seems to march on at an ever-increasing rate. It is hard to believe it has been six months since our last issue of the Buzz. Even though the time has flown by, we continue to make great strides in remaking Blackhawk Technical College to better support our community and workforce needs. If we had to put a label on this era of Blackhawk Technical College, it would be TRANSFORMATIVE. Recent renovations to our Central Campus have created a new Student Commons, Cafeteria, and Conference Center combined with breaking ground on the final phase of the Public Safety + Transportation Complex which continues to reshape your community’s college.

It is a time of metamorphosis – of transformation to fulfill our promise to deliver “Flexible Education in a Supportive Environment.” Supportive environment means we are dedicated to your success. We understand that the education and training you receive at Blackhawk Technical College is not your end goal, but rather a pathway to help you achieve your ultimate goal – the knowledge, the skills, and the abilities needed to succeed.

This puts your preparation, your education, and your skills at the center of all we do. Any journey can be fraught with hurdles and obstacles that could derail us; however, the Blackhawk Technical College team is here to help. Our commitment to excellence is exhibited in the quality of our programs and services led by an outstanding team of faculty and staff who are focused on preparing you for the future.

Our new programs in Dental Hygiene and Hospitality Management support our industry needs while the new Associate of Arts and Associate of Science transfer degrees provide more economical and high-quality options for students who wish to pursue a four-year degree. This is an exciting time to be a part of the Blackhawk Technical College family. Our dedicated faculty and staff await to serve you in your journey to success. Whether you are here to begin a program that leads to the workforce or to take advantage of the new pathways to our college and university partners, Blackhawk Technical College is the place to be.

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

University Transfer Programs

Offer Affordable Path to a

After graduating from high school, Grace Wood set off on a path to earn a bachelor’s degree at a four-year university. This is what most of her high school classmates were doing, and it felt expected of her.

But Grace wasn’t sure yet what she wanted to study, and she found her classes too large. She started to feel lost. Then, the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, prompting her to take time off.

“I felt I had to go to school even though I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” said Grace, who lives in Lima and graduated from Whitewater High School. “It didn’t go as planned, and I needed to take some time to figure out what would work best for me.”

This fall, Grace found a path that works for her. She is one of the first students in Blackhawk’s new Associate of Science program – one of two new University Transfer offerings that give students a streamlined, low-cost path to a bachelor’s degree.

With a focus on science, Grace is taking general education classes at Blackhawk. After two years, she plans to transfer to a University of Wisconsin school to study forestry.

“This has been a big change for me. I like the class sizes here, and I have closer relationships with my instructors. I have found my path forward at Blackhawk,” Grace said.

Made possible through a partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and UW-Whitewater at Rock County, Blackhawk’s University Transfer programs allow students to build an academic foundation at Blackhawk, earning credits to be put toward a bachelor’s degree program at UW-Whitewater or any fouryear university.

As a technical college, Blackhawk’s focus is on career or trade-specific training, but these new programs mark a significant shift for the college by also focusing on general education. Students will take general requirement courses at Blackhawk and at UW-Whitewater at Rock County that emphasize either arts or sciences based on their individual educational goals.

“We are pleased to work in partnership with UW-Whitewater and UW-Whitewater at Rock County, providing another opportunity for students seeking a bachelor’s degree,” said Dr. Tracy Pierner, President of Blackhawk. “These programs give students a broad range of study that will offer a seamless transfer into a bachelor’s program.”

Dr. Tricia Clasen, Dean and Assistant Vice Chancellor of the College of Integrated Studies/Rock County Campus, said the new partnership will open doors for even more students in this region.

By leveraging the many strengths of the UW-System and by building bridges with our regional partner, we are creating even more opportunities for students in Rock County,” she said.

Marissa Greuel Hainstock, Blackhawk’s Transfer Coordinator, said students often experience a loss of college credits as they transition from the two-year to the fouryear sector, but through these programs, students can transfer as a junior to a fouryear university or college.

This partnership between the two-year and four-year colleges in our area creates a stronger educational community for our residents.

-Marissa Greuel Hainstock

Similar to Grace, Ella Kuschel, 18, of Milton wasn’t sure what she wanted to do after high school. She didn’t want to take a year off. When she learned about Blackhawk’s University Transfer programs, she knew this was the best path for her. She enrolled this fall in the Associate of Science program.

“I recommend this path, especially to students who don’t know what they want to study yet. It’s a great, affordable option,” said Ella, who plans to eventually transfer to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and pursue a degree in pharmacy.

Students also could potentially save thousands in tuition by starting at

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Meet the Duo Behind University Transfer

If there’s one word that describes both Marissa Greuel Hainstock and Tiffany Garrison-Stanley, it’s passionate.

Both women are focused on creating the best possible student experience inside and outside the classroom for Blackhawk’s new University Transfer programs.

MEET MARISSA

Blackhawk’s new Transfer Coordinator

Marissa is inspired by what she sees as a drive to succeed by Blackhawk students. Her new position as Transfer Coordinator will enable her to support students in furthering their educational needs.

She was drawn to a career in higher education and specifically in student services because of the ability to impact students’ career and life goals.

At Blackhawk, she started as a member of the Recruitment Team and transitioned to an Academic Advisor position before taking on her new role.

“At Blackhawk, we are able to celebrate success, support challenges, and foster a sense of community,” she said.

MEET TIFFANY

Blackhawk’s new General Education Chairperson

GRACE WOOD AA/AS Program

Tiffany Garrison-Stanley came to Blackhawk four years ago as a full-time Science instructor. After becoming Academic Chair of Math and Science, she is now moving into the role of Administrative Chair of the General Education Department, overseeing the launch of the new Associate of Arts and Associate of Science programs.

Tiffany believes the technical college system is an integral component of bettering the community and the opportunities of those that live here, and she enjoys seeing her students succeed.

Blackhawk. The average cost per credit at a public, four-year college or university in Wisconsin is $290, according to Education Data Initiative. For an Associate of Arts or an Associate of Science degree at Blackhawk, it’s $188.90 per credit.

Blackhawk received final approval to offer these new programs in July from the Higher Learning Commission, Blackhawk’s accrediting agency. Many of the other colleges within the Wisconsin Technical College System are moving forward with similar programs.

“This career allows me to experience the resilience of the human spirit every single day,” she said. “To witness our students overcome the challenges they face and rise to a place of pride and achievement is truly inspiring.”

This has been a big change for me. I like the class sizes here, and I have closer relationships with my instructors. I have found my path forward at Blackhawk.

Pictured from left to right: Tiffany Garrison-Stanley, Grace Wood and Marissa Greuel Hainstock.

OUR College

Campus Construction Projects Enhance Student Experience

Construction projects and renovation efforts are transforming the Blackhawk experience. From the new Public Safety + Transportation Complex to a newly renovated Conference Center, the college is growing and changing to meet the needs of today’s students and the greater community in Rock and Green counties.

Public Safety + Transportation Complex

All of the projects on the main training grounds of this complex were completed and opened for use in spring 2022. In addition to significantly enhancing Blackhawk’s safety and transportation programs, the new complex is available for rent by both governmental and non-governmental entities.

Public Safety EDUCATION CENTER

Construction began in November on this final building within the Public Safety + Transportation Complex. The new 75,000-square-foot building will be located next to the Center for Transportation Studies and house classrooms for Blackhawk’s emergency services, fire and police programs as well as a track, gym and fitness center. Completion of this building is expected in late spring 2024.

CONFERENCE CENTER

Located on the west side of the main Central Campus building, this new 7,700-square-foot space can accommodate 500 people in theater-style seating and 300 seated at round tables. With a built-in stage and top-notch audio and visual equipment, the new space will host both student events as well as community events. The Conference Center is also available for rent.

Student Commons and COURTYARD CAFÉ

The newly-opened Café and Commons area is 9,400-square-feet of studentcentered space. Designed for group gatherings as well as individual study spaces, the Commons features an eSports area, a pool table, foosball, multi-purpose room and an IDEA Lounge, dedicated to the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility efforts of the college.

Operated by Canteen, the cafeteria is open for breakfast and lunch and features a Starbucks coffee bar as well as both hot and cold food options.

The Courtyard

After some setbacks, the courtyard project is slated to begin in spring 2023. The outdoor space is at the heart of Blackhawk’s Central Campus and will be renovated to include seating areas, a fire pit and open areas to host events.

Culinary Arts 1300 WING AREA

On the lower level adjacent to the new Courtyard Café, the Culinary Arts space and nearby classroom space will undergo a renovation, beginning in the spring. A new culinary kitchen and a dining space, called The Blackhawk Room, will be a focal point of this renovation. Existing classroom space will be renovated to accommodate a staff and faculty office suite.

Improving campus infrastructure and building new facilities will give students both a valuable social and academic experience while making the college a destination for the community as a whole.

-Dr. Tracy Pierner, President

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OUR College

New District Board Members

RACHEL ANDRES

Rachel Andres is the Senior Vice President of Operations at Prent Corporation, where she has worked for nearly a decade.

Her community involvement includes membership with the Stateline Manufacturing Alliance and Forward Janesville. In addition to Blackhawk, she also serves on the boards for Prent and GOEX.

Outside of work, Rachel enjoys spending time with her four daughters and husband, traveling, cooking and going to Badgers games.

MARK HOLZMAN

Mark Holzman is the Superintendent for the School District of Janesville. He began the position in July after serving as the Superintendent of the Manitowoc Public School District.

He serves on the Advisory Board Committee for the WIAA and recently accepted an invitation to join the Blackhawk Region United Way.

Holzman is an avid sports fan, a competitive runner and baseball player. He and his wife, Shawn, also an educator, have two adult sons.

Blackhawk Receives “Best Local College” Honor

Blackhawk Technical College received the 2022 Best of the Best Local College award in August at the Janesville Gazette’s 2nd Annual Community Choice Awards dinner. Blackhawk was a finalist for the Local College category along with Beloit College and UW-Whitewater at Rock County. This is the second year in a row that Blackhawk has won in that category.

“This award represents ongoing hard work by a team of dedicated staff and faculty whose focus is providing flexible education in a supportive environment day in and day out,” said Dr. Tracy Pierner, President of Blackhawk.

Approximately 123,000 votes were cast by people throughout the community for these awards, which celebrate and recognize the best the community has to offer in many categories, including education.

Blackhawk Technical College received the 2022 Annual Community

Blackhawk was a finalist for the Local College category Whitewater at Rock County. This is the second

“This award represents ongoing hard work by a focus is providing flexible education in a supportive

This year, approximately 123,000 votes were cast these awards, which celebrate and recognize the

Commencement

2022 Best of the Best Local College award in Community Choice Awards dinner.

category along with Beloit College and UWyear in a row that Blackhawk has won in that team of dedicated staff and faculty whose supportive environment day in and day out,” said

DECEMBER 2022

About 50 graduates from various programs participated in Blackhawk Technical College’s December 2022 Commencement on Tuesday, Dec. 20. This is the first time in at least a decade that the college has held a December graduation. The event also was the first time the ceremony was held in the college’s new Conference Center.

cast by people throughout the community for the best the community has to offer in many

AGRIBUSINESS STUDENT

Serves as National PAS Vice President

TRINITY DYERSON

Agribusiness/Science & Technology program student, Vice President-National Professional Agricultural Student Organization

Trinity Dyerson, a student in the Agribusiness/Science and Technology program, is serving as a vice president for the National Professional Agricultural Student Organization. She was elected to the post last spring and will serve in the role for the 2022-23 school year.

Trinity said the support she has received from her teacher, Dustin Williams, was instrumental in her election.

“When I asked if there was interest, Trinity never hesitated! She jumped on the opportunity,” said Dustin. “We have had a few state officers in the past but have never had anyone run for national office - let alone be awarded a position on the team.”

The role is a year-long commitment that includes monthly meetings and regular visits to attend state conferences all around the country and recruit new chapters.

This, along with many other opportunities that she has experienced, are the main reasons she thinks students who are considering Blackhawk should give it a shot. The Cross Plains native and graduate

of Mount Horeb High School chose Blackhawk after her high school agriculture teacher suggested it.

“I was drawn to this program because of how many aspects of agriculture the program covers and the many career paths you can take with this degree,” she said.

Trinity also liked the flexibility of how you can take classes, and she has enjoyed the many experiences she received in just her first year as a student.

She also found that communication is a cornerstone of being a Blackhawk student, realizing how important it is to

Blackhawk offers so many experiences and opportunities that I believe everyone should try because you never know if you will get another opportunity like that again.

talk with your teachers who all want to help you reach your goals.

“Blackhawk has helped me pursue my goals because of the experiences that I have gained so far there,” she said.

Trinity plans to graduate in spring 2023 and looks to pursue a career in crop insurance. She also plans on continuing to take on leadership roles so she can continue to do her part to better the industry.

WTCS AG DAYCelebration -Trinity Dyerson

MARCH 23, 2023 at Blackhawk Technical College Monroe Campus Ag Learning Center

KHALIA SINGLETON

Early Childhood Education

Education Student Returns with a Goal of Success

Khalia Singleton originally came to Blackhawk right out of high school, but a house fire a few years into her educational journey forced her to take some time off. Now, as the mother of five children, she decided it was time to get back on board and continue her journey in the Early Childhood Development program.

Khalia, who lives in Beloit, chose Blackhawk because she was told by former students that the college had one of the best Early Childhood Development programs and professors.

“I have always had a passion for working with children as well as learning from them,” she said. “Young people are our future and knowing that I can help be a part of their success to teach them and guide them makes me feel great as a person.”

The diversity that Blackhawk has is something that Khalia loves. She also enjoys being able to connect and build a relationship with her professors, which she feels makes the journey easier by not being afraid to reach out for help.

“I’ve learned giving up doesn’t make for greater success, but pushing through those challenges and overcoming them while still handling business will make your success trip even more worth it,” she said.

Being a mother to five children comes with its share of challenges, but Khalia has learned not to let that stop her, as her instructor Michelle Weirich notes.

“Khalia reflects many of our students at the college. She is juggling 5 young children, working full-time, and is completing a degree,” she said. “Khalia’s tenacity and hard work will open doors for her family that wouldn’t have been available without an education.”

Khalia hopes that anyone considering Blackhawk follows their dreams and takes meaningful action. She says the most important thing is to find the best

learning styles that fit your needs and make sure you use what the college offers to your benefit.

“Make connections and relationships with your professor and classmates,” she said.

Planning to graduate this year, Khalia hopes to work within the Beloit School District, with a long-term goal of running her own childcare facility.

Being a college student may not be the easiest for most but having those relationships and support can help guide you when tough times arise.

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OUR Faculty and Staff

MARLENE BURGOS-STEWART

Nursing Faculty

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The education and degree that I earned at Blackhawk Technical College changed the trajectory of my family’s lives in the most positive way, and I know it can do the same for all of our students.

Blackhawk ‘Like Home’ for New Nursing Administrative Chair

Marlene Burgos-Stewart’s path to becoming the new nursing administrative chair started when she was a nursing student at Blackhawk.

“The education and degree that I earned at Blackhawk Technical College changed the trajectory of my family’s lives in the most positive way, and I know it can do the same for all of our students,” she said.

Growing up in Evanston, Illinois, Marlene’s parents moved to southern Wisconsin when she was a sophomore in high school. She graduated from Black Hawk High School and married later that same year.

Marlene has always loved caring for people, starting out as a caregiver but finding herself wanting to be more involved in her clients’ plan of care. It was then she decided to enroll in nursing school. After graduating

from Blackhawk Technical College, Marlene earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Viterbo University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Edgewood College.

While working as a nurse, Marlene realized she loved training and developing her staff. “After working in the field and moving into management, I found great satisfaction in working to develop policies and practices that had a positive impact on the quality of care that our patients were receiving,” she said.

Marlene, who started teaching at Blackhawk three years ago, sees the college always striving to strengthen the support it gives to students.

“Blackhawk Tech’s faculty and staff value each and every student,” she said.

“This college is on a quest for constant improvement for the advantage of the student’s experience and the learning environment they will work in.”

Marlene and her husband, Rodney, live on a hobby farm in southern Wisconsin with their eight “ankle biters,” a mixture of Chihuahuas and Papillons. They have three adult children and two grandchildren. They love to travel and spend time in the Northwoods at Burrows Lake.

JON MLADIC

BLACKHAWK WELCOMES

New Director of Teaching and Learning Resources

In his new role, Jon Mladic will oversee the college’s Student Success Center and the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning. He will provide leadership in planning, developing and implementing innovative teaching and learning practices. He also oversees the academic support services, including developmental education, adult basic education, tutoring, testing, the Writing Center and the Math Lab.

“I’m excited to bring my experiences to Blackhawk to help further shape teaching and learning experiences.”

Prior to Blackhawk, Jon served as the Dean of Library and Learning Services at Rasmussen University in Rockford. He holds a Master of Arts in English from DePaul University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Illinois Wesleyan University.

Jon is the current president-elect for the College Reading & Learning Association, which is a professional development organization for professionals working at the college and adult levels in the fields of reading, learning assistance, developmental education and tutoring. He also is a volunteer with the Rockford Golden Apple Foundation, which recognizes K-12 teachers, principals and volunteers for outstanding work in schools.

Outside of work, Jon and his wife, Joanna, enjoy fixer-upper projects on their home in Roscoe. Jon and Joanna both love history and enjoy visiting museums and historical sites. Joanna just completed her Doctor of Education degree, and with a little more time back, the couple plans to adopt a puppy.

There are many great things happening at Blackhawk, and I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone.

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Director of Teaching and Learning Resources

OUR Programs

Dental Hygienist Program

Declining Workforce

In response to a declining oral health workforce, Blackhawk’s new Dental Hygienist associate degree program makes it possible for program graduates to become licensed dental hygienists and fill the many vacant positions throughout the region and state.

A recent survey published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene found that 8 percent of dental hygienists left the field during COVID, and many others are retiring without new workers to replace them.

In Wisconsin, 49 percent of dental offices are recruiting a dental hygienist, according to the Wisconsin Dental Association. In particular, Wisconsin’s community health centers, which are designed to increase access to health care for underserved communities, are struggling to fill vacant dental hygienist spots. According to a recent report by the Wisconsin Primary Health Association, 33 percent of dental hygienist positions are vacant in those centers.

Haley Dunphy initially chose Blackhawk because it was close to her home in Evansville. She completed the Dental Assistant certificate at Blackhawk in 2016 and when Blackhawk announced that it was starting a Dental Hygienist degree this fall, she was thrilled.

Being a single mom, Haley has struggled with the balance of school, work and home life. She credits her hard work and persistence with getting her to where she is today.

If it was not for Blackhawk starting this program, I can confidently say I don’t know if I would have been able to pursue the career of Dental Hygiene.

-Haley Dunphy

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Hospitality Management Program

Many jobs in the fast-paced hospitality industry don’t require a post-secondary degree. But as the hotel, restaurant and tourism sectors grow and change, employers are seeking individuals with a myriad of skills, including communication, budgeting, revenue forecasting and business management.

Blackhawk’s new Hospitality Management degree program is designed to give students that knowledge base to help them advance their careers in the hospitality industry. Courses include accounting, marketing, culinary supervision and hospitality cost control.

Dave Jaeckel started the program in August. As a former chef, he was planning to reopen a restaurant, but he is now thinking about other career paths within the industry.

“I’ve really learned about all the different options there are in hospitality. I’ve been thinking about possible careers in the food or beverage service. The knowledge that is taught – management skills, communication skills – apply to a lot of jobs,” he said.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly hurt the hospitality industry with a sharp employment decline. But according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the leisure and hospitality sector is seven of the top 20 fastest growing industries. The BLS also predicts that the food services and drinking places industry is expected to have the largest employment increase of any industry, adding close to 1.3 million jobs from 2021 to 2031.

Blackhawk’s Hospitality Management program is a 63-credit associate degree program. Most of the classes can be taken

either in-person or online. Students can take the degree full- or part-time.

Hospitality Management is a very versatile degree. With opportunities ranging from hotels and restaurants to stadium and other outdoor recreation, you will be prepared in hospitality management with transferable skills.

-Renee Pierpont Hable, Hospitality Management Program Coordinator

BLAIN’S FARM & FLEET

Gives Financial Gift to the Blackhawk Foundation

The Blackhawk Technical College Foundation received a $100,000 donation in June 2022 from Blain’s Farm & Fleet and the Blain Gilbertson Family for the naming rights on the overhead commercial doors at Blackhawk’s Center for Transportation Studies building within the new Public Safety + Transportation Complex.

This gift supports Blackhawk’s automotive and diesel programs, which provide skills in service and repair of transportation, construction, industrial and farm equipment and provide a foundation on the latest technologies.

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To make this donation to an organization that does amazing work for our area and invest in the community that has supported both my family and our family-owned business is truly an honor. I am so proud to be a part of this incredible community.

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— Jane Blain Gilbertson, Blain’s Farm & Fleet CEO, Owner & President

Pictured from left to right: Mickey Salamone, Diesel Instructor; Lisa Hurda, Director of Advancement and Foundation; Jane Blain Gilbertson, CEO, Owner & President of Blain’s Farm & Fleet; James Osinga, Scholarship Recipient; Mick Gilbertson; Tracy Pierner, President of Blackhawk; and Greg Phillips, Blackhawk Dean of Manufacturing, Apprenticeship, Technology and Transportation.

Blain Gilbertson Family Scholarship RECIPIENT FOCUSES ON FIXING MACHINERY

James Osinga has always loved to tinker with machines.

“If I can fix it myself, I will,” he said. “It’s very rewarding.”

The Blain Gilbertson Family Scholarship, which is a full-ride scholarship from Jane and Mick (Blain) Gilbertson and their two daughters, Nicole and Sarah. The family established the scholarship in early 2022 to provide financial assistance to students who are enrolled in the Agriculture, Business or Transportation, Distribution & Logistics programs at Blackhawk.

James, who is a graduate of Rock County Christian School, is a first-year student in the Diesel and Heavy Equipment Mechanic program at Blackhawk. Currently employed at DeLong Company, James also lives and works on his family’s small dairy farm in Janesville. He wants to be able to fix the farm’s machinery if it breaks down instead of relying on outside help, he said during a meet-and-greet event with the Gilbertsons last year.

“I’d like to be the person that people call for help,” James said. “I really want to be able to help someone else by fixing something for them.”

After graduation from Blackhawk, James plans to stay in farming in some capacity but also be an equipment operator and mechanic. He also would like to earn his Commercial Driver’s License.

“I don’t think we could have asked for a better first recipient of this scholarship,” said Jane Blain Gilbertson, who is the owner of 43 Blain’s Farm & Fleet stores in Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa and Michigan, as well as Blain’s Supply, Inc., which is headquartered in Janesville.

IDEAL Opportunity Scholarship Scholarship Makes College Possible for Electro-Mechanical Tech Student

Blackhawk Technical College and the BTC Foundation are proud to announce the 2022-2023 IDEAL Opportunity Scholarship recipient: Maranda Mendiola, a 2022 graduate from Beloit Memorial High School.

As a recipient of this scholarship, Maranda, who began the Electro-Mechanical Technology program in August, receives full tuition and necessary supplies to attend Blackhawk. She also has a faculty mentor, two paid internship opportunities and a stipend to help offset living expenses while she finishes her degree.

“I’ve always felt like I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I got great opportunities to explore. And I ended up here. It’s crazy how things work out. Now, I’m excited to be at Blackhawk,” Maranda said. “I’m very lucky to have this scholarship. Without it, I probably wouldn’t be going to college or getting such a great head start on my career and my future.”

Maranda’s post-high school plans all came together during her senior year at Beloit Memorial High School when she began a maintenance internship at Frito-Lay. That experience led her to Blackhawk’s six-week Industrial Maintenance Class this summer where she learned about the IDEAL Opportunity Scholarship - an intentional effort by Blackhawk to increase access to education and transform the lives of persons of color who are low-income and may be first-generation college students.

Through this scholarship program, Maranda will experience two internships while progressing through the Electro-Mechanical Technology Associate Degree program. For the fall 2022 semester, Maranda is working with the maintenance department at the Beloit Frito-Lay facility, and she also will intern at SHINE Technologies in the Spring 2023 semester.

Maranda credits her success to the support she has received from her family.

Instructor Bill Lobenstein, Maranda’s mentor in the Electro-Mechanical Technology program, said she has been a joy to teach.

“Maranda has accepted any and all the challenges of being a college student in the EM program. She brightens up when a task is presented and performed, which shows me that she will be a very successful technician in our industry with a very high ceiling for success,” he said.

Maranda is the third recipient of this scholarship since its inception in 2020. IDEAL stands for Inclusion – Diversity – Equity – Accessibility – Launch and is designed to support full-time enrolled students as they work toward degree completion in designated, high-need areas, including Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, ElectroMechanical Technology, Automated Systems Technology and Criminal Justice.

The scholarship program is sustained by many contributors, including PepsiCo, parent company of Frito-Lay, which donated $25,000 in July 2022 for the IDEAL Opportunity Scholarship.

For more information, please visit blackhawk.edu/ideal

Lisa Hurda, Director of College Advancement & Foundation

(608) 757-7704

Lhurda@blackhawk.edu

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My family has supported me by always making sure that I have what I need and always encouraging me to do my best.

—Maranda Mendiola

Foundation

New Mercyhealth Scholarship to Benefit Multiple Students

Mercyhealth and Blackhawk Technical College announced a new scholarship in November to assist students studying in one of five programs that will lead to a career in health care.

The scholarship, named Mercyhealth-Making Lives Better-Scholarship and established in partnership with the BTC Foundation, is a full-ride scholarship (includes tuition, fees and books) and will be awarded to students for the entire length of their Blackhawk education. Mercyhealth is committing to a donation of $40,000 each year to fund the scholarships. Mercyhealth is also committing to provide a paid internship with Mercyhealth in a position that will align with the scholarship recipient’s program of study.

“We are grateful for Mercyhealth’s partnership and generosity as we work

together to prepare future health care workers,” said Dr. Tracy Pierner, President of Blackhawk. “This scholarship is a powerful way to ease financial burdens and set students up for success in the health care industry.”

The scholarships will begin being awarded in the spring of 2023.

“Mercyhealth is excited to provide the Mercyhealth Making Lives Better Scholarship to the deserving students to help fulfill their career aspirations,” said Javon Bea, Mercyhealth President/ CEO. “We’re also proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Blackhawk Technical College to further health care careers in the community.”

To be considered for the scholarship, students must be enrolled at a minimum as a part-time student (six credits). Preference will be given to students who demonstrate a financial need.

For more information about the scholarship and to how to apply, please visit blackhawk.edu/mercyhealth.

Members from Mercyhealth and Blackhawk Technical College and the BTC Foundation gathered after the announcement.

New Foundation Board Members

KARA SANKEY

Kara is the Vice President of Operations and System Chief Nursing Officer for Mercyhealth and oversees operations at Mercyhealth Hospital and Trauma Center in Janesville, Wisconsin, as well as the Javon Bea Hospital in Rockford.

Her community involvement includes serving on the Van Matre Encompass Health Rehabilitation Institute Governing Board in Rockford, Illinois.

Outside of work, Kara enjoys spending her free time with her husband and two kids, August and Ruby. They like to travel, watch the kids participate in extracurricular activities, and spend time with family and friends.

RENAE HENRY

Renae is the Community Relations Officer for Sauk Valley Bank in Janesville. She is active as an ambassador for Forward Janesville and a member of St. Patrick Catholic Parish.

Renae and her husband, Dave, have two grown sons, Michael and Owen. They enjoy attending Badger games, dining out and spending time with family and friends.

OPENING DOORS for Blackhawk Students

By giving a gift, you can change lives and open doors for our students. Your gift provides much more than financial support. You can give students, who are our future nurses, repair technicians, welders, police officers, mechanics and chefs, encouragement and hope.

Consider opening a door for Blackhawk students in 2023 by providing a gift to the Blackhawk Fund. Your gift will support our students through scholarships, student emergency assistance, textbook rental fees and unexpected expenses they face as they work to attain their degree.

Visit blackhawk.edu/btcgift to donate today. You also can contact the Blackhawk Foundation at (608) 757-7704 or btcfoundation@blackhawk.edu

Blackhawk Technical College held its annual Manufacturing Day on Tuesday, Oct. 25, showcasing manufacturing career opportunities to more than 200 high school students and connecting them with about 30 area employers.

Students also took tours of Blackhawk’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center and engaged with Blackhawk instructors to learn about the various technical and associate programs offered. They learned about the options to get started in high school, including

OUR Students

More than a dozen students graduated last summer from an inaugural Accelerated Industrial Maintenance (AIM) program made possible by a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.

In partnership with Blackhawk Technical College and the Stateline Manufacturing

Manufacturing Day

skilled workforce in Rock and Green counties.

Youth Apprenticeship, Internship and Job Shadow programs.

In addition to local employers and high school students, other public officials and economic leaders attended the event, including the Department of Workforce Development’s Assistant Deputy Secretary Danielle Williams, Rhonda Suda, Southwest Wisconsin Workforce Development Board Executive Director, and James Otterstein, Rock County Economic Development.

Alliance, the Accelerated Industrial Maintenance program was facilitated through the Southwest Wisconsin Workforce Development Board. SWWDB received a $1.6 million grant through the Evers initiative and administered through the DWD last fall to implement several projects to help assist and improve the

workforce needs in several critical areas, including industrial maintenance.

Nicholas Villarello, a graduate of Parker High School in Janesville, was one of 16 students who completed the AIM program. He spoke at the graduation. Villarello is now working at Scot Forge.

I really didn’t know what I wanted to do. I was thinking about welding or becoming a lineman. My mom actually recommended this course, and I took it because it was a really great opportunity.

“Exposing high school students to the job opportunities in manufacturing is key to helping close this gap and create a solid

-Dr. Tracy Pierner ”

-Nicholas Villarello

RISING STAR Alumni

inner Focuses on EMPLOYEES, GOOD FOOD W

She competed on Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games in May 2022. Around the same time, she accepted a position as People + Culture Specialist at Geronimo Hospitality Group after serving as the General Manager and Executive Chef of Geronimo’s Lucy’s #7 Burger Bar for seven years.

Now, Emily Hopper, 32, is the recipient of the Blackhawk Technical College’s Rising Star Alumni Award, a new award that recognizes alumni who are 35 or younger or graduated from the college within the past decade.

“I am honored to be receiving this award. Throughout my career, I have been presented with many opportunities, but without the push from my family, my fear would have allowed me to turn them down. Unqualified, fear of failure, not the path I planned to take... whatever the reason, I’ve learned that we must feed our faith, starve our fears and just go for it,” Emily said.

Emily received an associate’s degree in Culinary Arts from Blackhawk in 2010 and an associate’s degree in Business Management in 2012. She was nominated for the Rising Star Alumni Award by Chef Mark Olson, a Culinary Arts Instructor at Blackhawk, and unanimously chosen by the college’s Executive Council for her passion and drive in the hospitality industry.

Emily’s first job was at Café Belwah, which is now Merrill and Houston’s. She worked there while at Beloit Turner High School and through her years at Blackhawk, learning all aspects of the restaurant business before joining Lucy’s #7 Burger Bar.

“I have coached students from the Culinary Arts program at Blackhawk. I’m passionate about people getting into the hospitality industry, and Blackhawk provided me with a great foundation,” Emily said.

Emily’s new position as People + Culture Specialist at Geronimo puts together all of her years of experience by

“ Emily came to Blackhawk with a little culinary experience, a lot of desire and determination. She has since gained valuable experience and has used her degree to climb the ladder while balancing work and home.

-Chef Mark Olson

EMILY HOPPER

ensuring employees work in a supportive environment.

“The job encompasses a variety of things, but it all focuses on being an employer of choice and celebrating the wins,” she said.

Jeff Whiteman, Chief Operating Officer of Geronimo Hospitality Group, said he can’t imagine anyone who embodies the spirit of Blackhawk’s Rising Star Alumni Award more than Emily.

“She fuels those around her with a positive energy that is wonderful and infectious. Our guests and her co-workers are the beneficiaries of her professional drive and her caring heart. Emily has the “it” factor, and I am blessed to see the results every day,” Whiteman said.

Outside of work, Emily and her husband have two children, ages 4 and 2, and they own a farm, which she says is her husband’s hobby, but she’d like to become more involved when their children get older. She also just started to learn how to play the guitar.

“I’m excited about my new position and what the future holds for me and my family,” Emily said.

Photos courtesy of Geronimo Hospitality Group

OUR Degree Programs

LIBERAL ARTS

Associate of Arts

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TECHNICAL DIPLOMAS

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Central Service Technician ▲ Computer Numeric Control (CNC) Technician

▲

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ADULT EDUCATION

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APPRENTICESHIPS

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CERTIFICATES

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Secure Juvenile Detention Academy Supply Chain Management

EMBEDDED TECHNICAL DIPLOMAS

Accounting Assistant

Entry Maintenance Technician

Flux Core Arc Welding

Gas Metal Arc Welding

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding

Residential HVAC

Shielded Metal Arc Welding

Substance Abuse Education

▲ Advanced Manufacturing Training Center (AMTC)

■ Monroe Campus

All other programs are on our Central Campus.

TAKE A CLASS AT BLACKHAWK

Whether you want to advance your career or learn a new skill just for fun, Blackhawk offers a variety of courses to suit your interests. Come take a course this spring with one of our amazing faculty.

LEARN MORE AT blackhawk.edu/cceregistration BLACKHAWK | Flexible Education. Supportive Environment.