Fox Valley Technical College | Focus Magazine | Fall 2022

focus Fox Valley Technical College

ONE OF A KIND

From aviation to neurodiagnostics, many of our programs are in a class of their own.

volume 16, issue 2 • Fall 2022

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APPLETON (5) BELLEVUE KIMBERLY

DARBOY DE PERE HOWARD

GREENVILLE MENASHA (2) NEENAH (4) MANITOWOC TWO RIVERS NEW LONDON

NICHOLS OSHKOSH (3) WAUPACA

contents 4 Focus is published bi-annually for the communities of Fox Valley Technical College.

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Director of College Marketing Barb Dreger Executive Editor Carmelyn Daley-Hinkens Art Director Cara Jakubiec Editor Casey Britten Contributing Editor Susan Lucius

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Photographers Gary Brilowski, Lucky Cha, Brandon Landwehr, Mike Roemer President Dr. Chris Matheny Fox Valley Technical College

1825 N. Bluemound Dr., P.O. Box 2277 Appleton, WI 54912-2277 1-800-735-3882 • www.fvtc.edu TTY (hearing impaired) 711 State Relay System baughman@fvtc.edu (email inquiries) Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission since 1974.

FVTC offers more than 200 associate degree, technical diploma and certificate programs, and instruction related to 15 apprenticeship trades, in addition to providing services to business and industry. The college serves about 45,000 people annually, more than any other technical college in Wisconsin. © 2022 Fox Valley Technical College.

Fox Valley Technical College is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action institution, providing equal opportunity to all persons, including members of underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds, females, veterans and individuals of all abilities. For questions regarding the College’s nondiscrimination policy, contact: Rayon Brown – brown@ fvtc.edu (Affirmative Action), TitleIX@fvtc.edu (gender discrimination, including sex-based violence) or Elizabeth Burns – burnse@fvtc.edu (disability related discrimination).

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One Of A Kind

9

Alumni Spotlight: Prachi Khare Associate degree leads to master’s degree for this IT grad.

10

Developing the Workforce FVTC eLearning & Technology Solutions is helping Zebra Technologies train global workforce.

11

Open for Business Entrepreneurship training helps a succulent plant business grow.

OUR MISSION IS TO: Provide relevant technical education and training to support student goals, a skilled workforce, and the economic vitality of our communities.

OUR VISION IS TO BE: A catalyst in engaging partners to bring innovative educational solutions to individuals, employers, and communities – transforming challenges into opportunities.

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From aviation to neurodiagnostics, many of our programs are in a class of their own.

Foundation Scholarship recipient wants to share passion for tech ed with younger students.

13

Beyond the Classroom Volunteering opportunities are a win-win for FVTC students and the community.

14-16 Around FVTC See what’s making news.

Win a $50 rd!

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ocusSurvey www.fvtc.edu/F

ONE OF A KIND From aviation to neurodiagnostics, many of our programs are in a class of their own.

Brain Waves Hannah Hubacher was drawn to FVTC by the incomparable Neurodiagnostic Technology program.

By Casey Britten

Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore is one of the most wellknown and renowned hospitals in the world. It’s consistently ranked in the top five hospitals in the nation, and people come from all over the world to seek care from the specialists there.

It’s also where 23-year-old FVTC alumna Hannah Hubacher chose to start her career as a neurodiagnostic technologist.

“I always knew I wanted to work in a large hospital somewhere,” says the Oconto native, who loves the urban environment and access to healthcare that big cities offer.

“We didn’t even have a hospital in my hometown. Living and working where I do now is like night and day.”

Hannah found the FVTC Neurodiagnostic Technologist (NDT) program somewhat by chance. She had been taking general education classes at NWTC when she learned about a new program that was coming to Fox Valley Tech, so she inquired. “There wasn’t a lot of information on it yet, but I started doing research and realized that there were no other two-year options in Wisconsin for neurodiagnostic technology,” she says. “It was really unique and I was fascinated immediately.”

What is Neurodiagnostic Technology?

NDTs study and record electrical activity in the brain and nervous system alongside neurologists. Among other tools, they use electroencephalography (better known as EEG) to monitor patients and support diagnoses. “We monitor your brain activity, making sure everything is working the way it should,” says Hannah. “I work with a wide range of patients of all ages, from babies to 100-year-olds.”

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www.fvtc.edu www.fvtc.edu Fox Fox Valley Valley Technical Technical College College

Heidi Hartle, department chair of the NDT program explains: “Any test dealing with the nerves, the brain and the spinal cord, that’s what we do.” This includes brain wave and sleep studies, peripheral nerve testing, as well as assisting surgeons during neurosurgery procedures.

The program launched in 2017, with Heidi at the helm. “I heard that Fox Valley Tech was looking to start a program, so I reached out to the dean and said, ‘If you need someone to teach, I would be absolutely interested in doing it.’ And here we are today.”

Prior to teaching, Heidi had been working as an NDT at Prevea Health. Now that she’s made the leap to the classroom, she has found joy in witnessing the lightbulb moments. “I love seeing the students’ expressions and their eyes light up when something finally clicks. Then they get excited and then they try to help other students understand,” she says.

Students like Hannah appreciate that level of commitment.

“The program that Heidi developed is like no other,” she explains. “I see that even more now that I’ve been working for two years. This field is wide, and there are so many different specializations you can go into—but Heidi teaches all of it. It’s challenging, but when you graduate, you’re 100% prepared for success and feeling confident to work anywhere.”

Including Johns Hopkins.

“When I found out that Hannah got accepted to Johns Hopkins, I felt like a happy mama bird,” says Heidi. “I was so proud of her because in the medical field, Johns Hopkins is elite. It’s no small feat that she’s there.”

• • • Video + more of this story available online at:

www.fvtc.edu/HannahHubacher

Hannah Hubacher in the FVTC Neurodiagnostic Technology lab.

100%

grad employment for Neurodiagnostic Technologist grads

6 months after graduation

focus fall fall2022 20222 3 focus

Flying Start Seth Defour-Remy is living his dream of becoming an airline pilot.

By Casey Britten

When Seth Defour-Remy was 16 years old, he was working at Cherryland Airport in Sturgeon Bay, learning to fly and dreaming of flight school.

He’d always known he wanted to be a pilot, but wasn’t sure where to study.

His flight instructor suggested all the well-known flight schools, but also highly recommended Fox Valley Technical College. “He encouraged me to take a tour at FVTC, along with the private fouryear schools,” says Seth.

He toured them all. “When I looked at Fox Valley Tech, I couldn’t believe how low it was in cost, and how fast

the program was,” he says. “It was only

He’s also continuing his education.

two years, and I would get all the same

Upon graduating from FVTC in 2018,

ratings as I would at Embry-Riddle, which

Seth took advantage of a transfer

was a four-year school but there I would

agreement between FVTC and

pay so much more in tuition.” Another

UW-Oshkosh and will graduate in

selling point for Seth was that FVTC is

December 2022 with a bachelor’s degree

located in Oshkosh, the city that hosts

in Aviation Management.

AirVenture, one of the greatest aviation events in the world.

Upon enrolling in the Aeronautics-Pilot

And after that? “Get to the majors, then eventually fly internationally,” he explains. “I’ve always envisioned

Training associate degree program, he

myself flying overseas seeing different

was hooked. “It’s a very small, family-

places, meeting new people, and just

oriented environment,” he says. “That’s

experiencing the world.

one of the major reasons I chose it. The

“Aviation has been my passion since I

instructors know their stuff and helped

was a kid. I've always wanted to fly. Now

me get to where I am right now.”

that I’m doing it, it just brings me a lot of

Now 25 years old, Seth is a First Officer with Air Wisconsin Airlines, flying regionally for United Express. “There’s

joy. It doesn't feel like a job.”

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/Aviation

no standard day, which is really nice,” he says. “And I get to see a lot of the Midwest and East Coast.”

Oshkosh Equals Aviation Oshkosh, Wisconsin is synonymous with aviation. And in Wisconsin, Fox Valley Tech is synonymous with aviation. We are one of the only technical colleges in the state to offer aviation-related degrees. In addition to our Pilot Training program, we also provide training in Aircraft Electronics and Airframe & Powerplant Mechanics at our S.J. Spanbauer Center.

$89,907

average annual salary for Aeronautics grads

3 years after graduation 4

www.fvtc.edu Fox Valley Technical College

Seth Defour-Remy at Air Wisconsin Airlines.

Sheila Weninger at Ballweg Implement Co., Inc.

Precise Program for Ag Alum Precision Agriculture Technician is exclusive program to FVTC.

By Carmelyn Daley-Hinkens

After graduating in 2019, Sheila was hired full-time at Ballweg.

She continues to apply her FVTC education to her job as a precision agriculture consultant.

“Every day is different; one day I can be on the road, helping customers troubleshoot or install new equipment,” Sheila says.

“Or, I can be in the office and remoting into their machines to see what is going on.

Having grown up on her family’s dairy farm, Sheila Weninger

“With a shortage of labor, precision agriculture has an

knew that whatever she studied in college, she wanted a career

opportunity to continue to grow. Autonomy is right around the

in agriculture. Shortly after starting at Fox Valley Technical

corner. When customers are busy in the fields, they may run into

College, an elective class she chose would give her precise

issues with their equipment. With our tools and technology, we

direction.

can quickly get them back up and running.”

“I took Introduction to Precision Agriculture as an elective my first semester of college,” Sheila explains. “The class hooked me on precision agriculture. I like working with computers and this was a good fit for me.”

Sheila interned at Ballweg Implement Co., Inc. in Waupun while pursuing an associate degree in Agribusiness Science and Technology – Agronomy and a technical diploma in Precision Agriculture Technician.

“Precision Ag focuses on the technology of farm machines like tractors, combines, sprayers and other equipment,” Sheila explains. “The technology is used to record data so you know what is happening in the field at any time. It can also involve technology to control tractors, sprayers and combines to drive themselves. The technology creates efficiencies and reduces costs for farmers.”

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/PrecisionAgriculture

Precision Agriculture Technician at FVTC is a one-ofits-kind program throughout the Wisconsin Technical College System. FVTC has a 100% employment rate within 6 months of graduation with an average salary of $32,500. The 30-credit technical diploma prepares students for careers in: • Agricultural Equipment Sales • Agriculture Equipment Operator • Agriculture Service Technician • Agronomy Sales/Service • Custom Crop Applicator • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technician • Precision Ag Specialist

focus fall 2022 2 5

Rethinking Communications Communications degree was the key to getting ahead for Denise Heckner.

By Casey Britten

Working full-time and raising two kids, Denise Heckner needed a program that was flexible and would allow a seamless transition to her ultimate goal: a bachelor’s degree.

“I was looking for something cost-effective that would help my career, could be done 100% online on my own schedule, and be a path to a bachelor’s degree,” she says. “The Professional Communications program checked all my boxes.”

A longtime employee of J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc., Denise has held a variety of roles in creative fields, but needed this degree to unlock opportunities for more writing. Her recent advancement to her role as an associate curriculum developer was the result. “People noticed the improvement in my communication

Denise Heckner at J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.

skills,” she says. “This degree paved the way for advancement opportunities.”

In her new role, Denise develops content for safety and regulatory compliance training, which involves taking complex information and breaking it down into easy-to-understand modules for adult learners. “My new job involves a lot more writing and interaction with how people learn,” she says. “It's definitely a lot more challenging, but my brain needed the challenge.”

She has also been able to transfer her FVTC credits to UW-Oshkosh, aligning well with previous credits she had earned there and allowing her to check that final item on her list.

“It’s a fantastic program,” Denise says. “The

If you love writing, a degree in Professional Communications can open doors to a variety of careers: • Documentation Specialist

• Training Specialist

• Social Media Manager

• Web Content Developer

• Technical Writer FVTC is the only technical college in Wisconsin offering this fully online program. It’s a versatile degree that combines communication with technology—the result is a wealth of skills that can be applied to just about any industry. Students learn everything from

variety of material you learn is so valuable.”

designing and writing content for the web, to grant writing, technical writing, social

• • • Learn more:

media and video publishing. Professional Communications alumni earn an average

www.fvtc.edu/Communications

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What can you do with a Professional Communications degree?

www.fvtc.edu Fox Valley Technical College

annual salary of $65,912 five years after graduation.

“I came to the program with a different perspective because I

Designing a New Career

was already practicing in the industry, but I still wanted to gain

Interior designer seizes an opportunity during a difficult time.

program, in particular, helped me understand new things, such

By Carmelyn Daley-Hinkens

more knowledge,” Ben says. “The Kitchen and Bath Design as the importance of having the knowledge and skills to tackle highly detailed and multi-layered building plans, along with

Ben VerGiesen didn’t have a traditional interior design degree

the requirements to manage demanding multi-faceted design

when he started B. Lewis Design in 2017. But he did have a plan.

projects.”

“Part of my business plan was to invest in design classes

While B. Lewis Design specializes in residential and commercial

part-time while I was starting my interior design business and

design, in 2021, Ben co-founded the Lewis Rose Design studio

by the time I graduated, I would have the industry standard as

with FVTC Interior Design graduate Dana Enderby. Their

far as continuing education goes,” Ben explains. “But business

partnership includes a designer collaborative studio and retail

took off quickly and any continuing education aspirations were

space to work with clients on synergetic design projects. He

put on pause.”

knows his time at Fox Valley Tech, as challenging as it was,

That is, until Fall 2020.

has challenged him to develop into an even more accomplished

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, many design projects

professional interior designer.

stalled and Ben needed to be home with his two children while

“The program is a solid foundation for anyone interested in

they attended classes virtually. Ben decided to take advantage

interior design,” Ben says. “And I know there isn’t another college

of the challenging times and enrolled in interior design classes at

in the area offering this program which gives the programs at

FVTC. After four semesters and two summers of juggling home,

FVTC even more distinction in the system.”

work and school demands, Ben graduated with honors in May 2022 with dual associate degrees: one in Interior Design and one in Kitchen and Bath Design.

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/InteriorDesign

FVTC is the only area technical college to offer associate degrees in Interior Design and Interior Design – Kitchen and Bath Design, plus certificates in Interior Design Entrepreneurship and Kitchen and Bath Design.

These programs have a 92% graduate employment rate in careers such as visual merchandiser, design consultant, interior designer and sales associate.

Ben VerGiesen at B. Lewis Design.

focus fall 2022 2 7

Deacon Ante in the FVTC Automotive Lab.

Steering to a Career in Imports

Student Deacon Ante takes advantage of unique automotive program.

By Carmelyn Daley-Hinkens

To understand Deacon Ante’s interest in automotive vehicle repair—specifically import vehicles—you must go back in time to when the V8 engine was cool. Commonly associated with full-size vehicles and often called gas-guzzlers, Deacon grew up with many different types of these vehicles around him.

“My dad was big into vehicles with V8 engines,” Deacon explains. “It was just normal for me to see them around. So when I saw small import cars going faster than V8 vehicles, and doing it with half the cylinders and half the weight, I was impressed.”

Deacon was intrigued enough to start a hobby of working on import cars, particularly with smaller engines to improve total horsepower and torque. It was during one of those times of tinkering that his fiancée asked him why he wasn’t fixing cars for a living, as he already spent so much of his downtime working on them.

In the fall of 2021 Deacon enrolled in the Automotive Technology – Imports program at Fox Valley Technical College, a one-of-its-kind associate degree program within the Wisconsin Technical College System. Throughout school, he’s also worked part-time on many import brands. He’s now at Bergstrom Acura, where he hopes to stay after he graduates in May 2023. Until then, he’s taking in every bit of knowledge and skill he can from this unique program at FVTC, its instructors and his co-workers.

“The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable because they came from the field themselves,” Deacon says. “With the experience they have it adds another level to the classes because it is not just from a book; it’s from a person who has been there and done it.”

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/Automotive

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www.fvtc.edu Fox Valley Technical College

The Automotive Technology – Imports is a 64-credit associate degree program. Students learn about all eight areas of Automotive Service Excellence, along with hybrid vehicles. The program also prepares a student to become a Certified Master Technician, which is required by many dealerships. FVTC alumni make an average annual salary of $55,876 five years after graduation. Other career opportunities include: • Import Technician • Parts Specialist

• Service Manager • Service Writer

ALUMNI

Alumni Spotlight: Q&A with Prachi Khare Associate degree leads to master’s degree for this IT grad.

By Casey Britten

When Prachi Khare decided it was time to update her technical skills, she enrolled in the Software Developer associate degree program at FVTC. She’d already earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science, but knew that in order to get ahead, she needed to keep her skills sharp. She made full use of her time here, graduating with honors in 2018.

Prachi now lives in Atlanta with her family and is a data warehouse analyst for a global tech firm that provides IT resources to its clients. She’s also gone on to earn her master’s degree in software engineering, and as of May 2022 is a new graduate of Kennesaw State University.

Why did you choose Fox Valley Technical College?

Prachi Khare in 2017 with IT instructor Steve Ebben. Prachi is now a Data Warehouse Analyst working for a global tech firm.

I have always been very passionate about learning and

Tell us more about what you do day-to-day as a Data Warehouse Analyst.

improving my technical skills. I was excited to gain knowledge

My role is to lead, collect and analyze business requirements

from the experienced teachers of FVTC, plus the environment

for projects. I develop queries to analyze data based on

was so friendly. One of my friends advised me to earn a

business requirements, ensure data accuracy and find data

degree from FVTC rather than looking for some certifications,

issues. I also work with other IT members, stakeholders and

and I am glad that I made the right decision.

customers in various capacities.

What did you enjoy most at FVTC?

What’s the best part of your job?

Everyone is so helpful and there are plenty of opportunities

I am learning so many new things every day. Not only am I

to grow yourself professionally and as a human being. I

improving my IT skills but I am improving my people skills as

was the President of Women in Technology-Wisconsin and

well. I love interacting with different stakeholders and trying to

Vice President of the Association of Information Technology

gather information.

Professionals. College offers part-time jobs and internship opportunities as well; at FVTC I also did an internship as a

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/IT

multimedia developer and learned a lot.

Why are IT skills so important right now?

IT skills are not related to certain kinds of jobs anymore—they are everywhere. In this digitalized world it is really important to have IT skills. One need not be a technical expert; basic knowledge helps in daily work as well.

$78,829

average annual salary for Software Developer grads

5 years after graduation focus fall 2022 2 9

DEVELOPING THE WORKFORCE

Training Roadmap

FVTC eLearning & Technology Solutions is helping Zebra Technologies train global workforce.

By Casey Britten

When Jen DeBraal’s senior operations manager at Zebra Technologies Corp. asked her if she could do one thing to improve processes, she didn’t hesitate to answer. “I said, ‘I want to develop a training program,” the operations manager explains.

Zebra Technologies is a global company that manufactures and sells devices, software and services to help companies work more efficiently. You may not know the name, but you’ve undoubtedly interacted with its products. Many stores use Zebra scanners for personal shopping and checkout, and hospital wristbands are printed on Zebra devices. The scanners are used in retail, warehouse distribution, healthcare, manufacturing and many other industries around the world.

Jen’s team oversees operations at Zebra’s Greenville, Wis. location, one of seven flexographic printing facilities that creates labels for printers. “Labels are a small but important piece of Zebra’s business,” she says. “We’re not just labels, but a critical piece of the business. So how do we make sure that we produce the best possible labels? We need to have the besttrained employees we can have.”

Jen decided to reach out to FVTC for help implementing a training program and was connected with Kim Buechel, manager of the FVTC eLearning & Technology Solutions team (formerly known as Learning Innovations).

Jen DeBraal on the Zebra production floor with Jay Chang.

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www.fvtc.edu Fox Valley Technical College

“We started discussing what the training could look like, and we landed on a program called structured on-the-job training,” Kim explains. “We expanded on the existing on-the-job training to identify very specific, measurable training goals.” This type of hands-on training not only provides employees with helpful tools and resources to learn what they need to know, it also helps management understand who is trained on what. Together the team created videos, checklists and full sets of work instructions that incorporate practical demonstration of knowledge gained.

The result is the Global Supplies and Sensors Training Program, which focuses on new hires and the transition into a new role. Employees demonstrate specific skills to a targeted proficiency level from day-one through day-90, laying the foundation for their future success.

And it caught the attention of senior Zebra leadership, expanding the scope beyond Greenville to include every Zebra supplies division location in the U.S. and Europe. “It was a teeny tiny idea that blossomed into a huge opportunity for the supplies sites,” Jen says. “It’s creating consistency that can transfer across sites.”

“We had a vision, but felt a bit lost,” says Jen. “That’s where Fox Valley Tech came in. They gave us the path so we could start to make this dream a reality.”

Senior Operations Manager Richard Scott has led this project with Jen and echoes her feedback: “What started as a need to improve our front-line training program has evolved into a worldclass training experience that’s far exceeding my expectations.”

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/ETS

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

A Green Thumb for Business Entrepreneurship training helps a succulent plant business grow.

By Carmelyn Daley-Hinkens

Wei Phoebe is passionate about succulent plants. In her words, they are adorable, carefree plants that can magically trigger joy and happiness. And she should know; she credits these plants with helping her get through an exceptionally challenging time in her life.

Wei was living in China in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic began. She and her U.S.-born fiancé (now husband) were celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year when flights from China to the U.S. were about to be grounded. The couple cut plans short and returned together on the last U.S.-bound flight departing China on January 31.

Within weeks, Wisconsin went into lockdown. Wei was an immigrant, home alone while her spouse still worked, and she had no social outlet.

“I reached a low point and wondered, ‘Why am I here?

What should I do?’ I earned a bachelor’s degree in China and considered getting a master’s degree in Human Resources,” she explains. “But I can’t sit in front of a computer for a long period; I’m a creative person.”

During that time of deep introspection, on a whim, Wei

Wei Phoebe

purchased a few succulents. It was love at first plant. She bought more. And more. She found her happiness and her direction. “I told my husband that these plants make me so happy. Maybe they will make other people happy, so I think I should turn my hobby into a business.”

With her husband’s support, Wei started with a Horticulture course at Fox Valley Technical College. She enjoyed the class so much, she signed up for a few more. In spring 2022, Wei enrolled in the E-seedTM Express program through the Venture Center at FVTC. “The best part about this program through the Venture Center is we were taught by someone who is running his own business,” Wei explains. “Each class is three hours long, but our instructor was so passionate and wanted us to learn every

As if that is not enough, Wei and her husband are also building a greenhouse in Neenah. She hopes the added space will let her focus on wholesale succulents. She also wants to create a garden for customers to enjoy.

“As I was building my business, I did some research on how plants can help others, so I emailed the National Alliance on Mental Illness,” Wei says. “Within days, I received a reply with a dozen links to research that shows how plants help people; you take care of them, love them, and have a responsibility for them.

“We want to create a beautiful garden at our greenhouse so that no matter – whether you are happy or unhappy – you can visit and find happiness.”

second. We were hungry for ideas and he was eager to share.

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/VentureCenter

Our class stays in touch and we still help each other with our

• • •  View video: www.fvtc.edu/WeiPhoebe

business plans.”

Naming her business, The Way to Succulents, Wei is selling succulents retail and taking on décor projects such as interior landscaping, bridal/baby showers, and weddings; she even hosts classes on how to arrange and decorate with succulents.

This fall, she is enrolled in the Small Business Innovation Accelerator program to help fine-tune her business plan.

FVTC’s E-seedTM Express helps start-ups and earlystage entrepreneurs create management and planning tools for their businesses. Participants get insight into legal, management, marketing, accounting and financial aspects of running a business. focus fall 2022 2 11

FOUNDATION James Sternweis

From Cars to the Classroom

Scholarship recipient wants to share passion for tech ed with younger students.

By Carmelyn Daley-Hinkens

As a student at Waupaca High School, James Sternweis knew he wanted to work in automotive repair. What he did not know was his love for fixing vehicles would lead him back to the classroom; first as a college student and then as a teacher.

“I wasn’t sure whether to go into heavy equipment, automotive or diesel repair,” James explains. “Then two of my teachers asked if I knew about the Career and Technical Education Instruction program at FVTC. I was intrigued, so I did some research and decided this program was a good fit.”

Once James graduates with an associate degree, he can enter into a contractual agreement with a participating school district where he will teach technical education classes for three years while deciding whether to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

“I want to teach automotive technologies at the high school level and use the time to determine if I like teaching,” James says. “If I like it, I will start on my bachelor’s degree. If I do not like teaching, I will use the skills from the program for something else.”

In addition to a helpful nudge from his teachers, James also received a financial boost as a recipient of the FVTC Foundation Staff Giving Scholarship. In James’ case, the additional money lessens the strain of commuting from Waupaca.

“One of the best things about FVTC is it’s much more affordable than a four-year college,” James explains. “But I still work full-time to pay for school.

The FVTC Foundation makes college possible for current and future FVTC students. Next year, one of those students could be you. High school seniors and returning adult students are encouraged to apply for scholarships.

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/Foundation

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www.fvtc.edu Fox Valley Technical College

The scholarship pays part of my tuition, which leaves me with more money for commuting to school.”

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/Foundation • • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/TeachTechEd

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

FVTC Students Give Back Volunteering opportunities are a win-win for FVTC students and the community.

By Casey Britten

Learning happens in the classroom, but also in the act of giving one’s time to others. Skills like communication, accountability, initiative and teamwork are learned through real-world volunteering experiences.

Acquiring them will make you a more desirable job candidate, no matter what industry you choose to specialize in. Plus, it’s just good for the soul.

Here are just some of the ways Fox Valley Tech students help others in the community.

International Students Students who come to Fox Valley Tech from around the

Business The FVTC Collegiate DECA club prepares emerging leaders to be career-ready. Each year, DECA students volunteer their time at Feeding America working on tasks like boxing cereal and cutting up fresh veggies for people in need.

world volunteer their time and energy in a number of ways.

Veterinary Technician

Distribution of food is

Students in the FVTC Vet

an important topic as it

Tech Club work alongside

is a similar concern in

the Fox Valley Humane

their home countries.

Association to help out

Riverview Gardens,

with vaccine clinics. It’s

St. Joseph’s Food

a great opportunity to

Pantry and Celebrate

learn new skills and meet

Diversity Fox Cities

practicing veterinarians.

are some examples of where they spent time last year.

Nursing Dental Hygiene & Dental Assistant

Each year, members of the FVTC Student Nurses’ Association

The FVTC Dental

lend a hand during the

Club volunteers with

Fox Cities Marathon by

organizations like

providing medical care in

Special Olympics and

the medical tent and at

Habitat for Humanity

the race finish line.

to provide dental care tips and brushing demonstrations as well as giving out toothbrushes and toothpaste.

• • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/StudentLife

focus fall 2022 2 13

AROUND FVTC

Two Great Schools Under One Roof

Lakeland University opens a new location on the FVTC campus.

Fox Valley Technical College has officially welcomed Lakeland University to campus. The two schools celebrated with an open house and ribbon cutting shortly before the fall semester began.

The university is located just inside Entrance 15 on the Appleton Campus and will have office space and access to several classrooms during the spring, fall and summer semesters.

Graduates from Fox Valley Tech have long been welcomed at Lakeland University. More than one-third of the students that Lakeland currently serves in the Fox Cities are FVTC graduates.

A transfer agreement between the two schools will allow students Lakeland President Beth Borgen & FVTC President Chris Matheny

who earn an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree at FVTC to transfer to Lakeland with junior standing and apply all their credits toward a Lakeland bachelor’s degree.

Lakeland offers more than a dozen bachelor’s degree programs and four master’s degree programs in the Fox Cities. Any FVTC graduate who enrolls in a bachelor's degree program with Lakeland will receive a 20% tuition discount.

Prepare to Launch: New Transfer Degree Options

College receives approval to offer a new pathway to a bachelor’s degree.

With approval from the Higher Learning Commission, Fox Valley Technical College is getting ready to offer two transfer-focused associate degree programs.

The University Transfer - Associate of Arts and University Transfer - Associate of Science degrees will allow students to earn a degree at FVTC and be eligible to transfer into a baccalaureate program with junior standing at UW Oshkosh and Lakeland University. Plus, additional four-year college partners will be added soon.

Each degree will meet the requirements for general education courses at both schools. The programs are made up of 60 credits, including 39 to 41 credits in general education and 19 to 21 credits in electives.

In recent years, a growing number of students have shown interest in beginning their college coursework at FVTC and

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www.fvtc.edu Fox Valley Technical College

then transferring to another school in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. In fact, 6.8% of FVTC students last enrolled during the 2020-21 academic year pursued additional credentials at a four-year college or university.

These transfer-focused degree programs are coming soon.

AROUND FVTC

FVTC Briefs For the latest Fox Valley Technical College news, visit www.fvtc.edu/News.

• A new certificate program is being offered at FVTC that will

prepare students for a career in the meat industry, where workers are in high demand. As part of a $5 million state grant, FVTC is one of the technical colleges able to offer the 8-credit career pathway. With state funding, students who successfully advance through the program will receive tuition reimbursement.

• FVTC has been awarded a $35,000 federal grant to create

a faculty-led, short-term study abroad program in the Bahamas. Students in Agriculture and Natural Resources programs will be eligible to participate. In traveling abroad, the students will get firsthand knowledge of resource management, agricultural practices and sustainability in the Bahamas.

• Electricity student Kaden Keenlance took home the gold award in the national SkillsUSA competition in Atlanta. Kaden competed in the Electrical Construction competition.

• Susan Kaufman, SHRM-CP, PHR, has been named Vice President of Human Resources at the college.

Kaufman joined FVTC in 2002 and has held various HR leadership roles, including Associate Director of Human Resources. Since December 2021, Kaufman served as Interim Vice President of Human Resources until being permanently named to the role in June 2022.

Susan Kaufman

• A new partnership has resulted in a specialized truck driver

training program for Afghan and Somali refugees. FVTC will administer the program, which will prepare students to earn a commercial driver’s license (CDL). The program is being coordinated with the Bay Area Workforce Development Board and COMSA, a community-based organization assisting refugees.

Kaden Keenlance

FVTC and Partners Launch Innovative Training Program Project will help reverse hardships created by pandemic.

Fox Valley Technical College and partners Rawhide Youth Services and Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin have teamed up to create an innovative training program designed to help reverse economic and mental health hardships created by the pandemic.

Through a $6.5 million state Workforce Innovation Grant, Career EXCELerate Wisconsin will offer a unique education and training program that identifies and connects high-potential individuals with employers. As part of this process, participants will receive job skills training at FVTC, wrap-around services such as classroom support, and comprehensive employment case management. The program is free to eligible participants.

The first cohort in Career EXCELerate Wisconsin will start in January 2023. Participants will receive training and certification in such areas as industrial maintenance technician, wood manufacturing/cabinet maker, welding fundamentals, plumbing, early childhood teacher’s aide, nursing assistant, truck driving, and mechanic-vehicle manufacturing.

The program intends to serve around 450 individuals through the 2024 calendar year.

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AROUND FVTC

Big Renovations at the Riverside Campus

Surgical Technology Lab

Surgical Technology program among updates bringing more healthcare training to Oshkosh.

The FVTC Oshkosh Riverside campus recently underwent major renovations, bringing new opportunities to students in Oshkosh and the surrounding areas.

At 66,000+ square feet, the Riverside campus is FVTC’s second-largest facility. It’s located along the Fox River and has been a pillar of the Oshkosh community since its construction in 1982.

The new 64-credit Surgical Technology associate degree program is the largest addition to the campus, which can be completed in its entirety at this location. This 4,000+ square-foot

Chemistry & Microbiology Lab

space welcomed the first class of students in fall 2022.

In addition, more than 3,800 square feet of science labs were constructed, creating space to offer classes in General Biology, Microbiology, Anatomy & Physiology and General Chemistry.

Remodeled facilities also include a Medical Assistant lab, a Nursing lab, a Nursing Assistant lab, and a Phlebotomy lab.

The full-service campus continues to offer student services and program classes in business and marketing, information technology, as well as adult education, English language learning and community classes.

FVTC Parent & Family Portal If you’re a parent or family member of a future or current FVTC student, sign up to stay engaged and focused on what matters most – your student’s success. The portal is designed to provide quick information and allows you to join a community of other family members who support their student’s academic journey. www.fvtc.edu/PortalSignUp

Read | Watch | Share See something you like? The articles in this magazine are easily accessible with additional links, photos and videos at www.fvtc.edu/Focus.

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Create Your Future!

You’ve got what it takes to do great things in the world. Now, get the degree to back that up.

We’re here to help turn your dreams into reality. Fox Valley Tech is known for award-winning faculty who provide hands-on career training that will have you job-ready on day one.

Prepare for a career that’s in demand and offers great earning potential. Put your future on the fast track with one of our 200+ career-focused programs like Business, IT, Health Science, Manufacturing and Automotive Technology. Or consider our outstanding programs in Aviation, Public Safety, Culinary Arts, Agriculture and Engineering.

Take the next step and learn more:

www.fvtc.edu/Admissions

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Coming Soon!

University Transfer Degree

It’s time to start your college education by earning a University Transfer degree.

It’s affordable and close to home. You can choose between an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree.

Begin with your first two years at Fox Valley Tech, then transfer to one of our four-year university partners as a junior. Get the courses you need at a fraction of the cost.

For more info: www.fvtc.edu/UniversityTransfer 920-735-4740 • admissionsspecialist@fvtc.edu