Feb. 1, 2012

WTCS President Dan Clancy addresses representatives
from Wisconsin's 16 technical colleges.

MADISON – More than 100 Wisconsin technical college students from throughout the state displayed projects relating to their coursework at “A Celebration of Student Engagement,” Tuesday, Jan. 31 in the State Capitol Rotunda.

“The projects demonstrate how our students routinely combine traditional learning with entrepreneurship opportunities, outreach, and community service,” said Dan Clancy, president of the Wisconsin Technical College System.

Students representing all 16 technical colleges highlighted how the skills and knowledge they are gaining will impact their communities’ future. MATC students presented "Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition and Its Impact on Information Security Practices" and "The Graduation Project." Other examples of the projects included: Nanoscience Research of Porous Silicon; Market Research: Surveying Employer Training Needs; Service Learning Opportunities in Health Care; Keep Stepping Service Learning Program; and Sustainable Building.

In addition to the project display, Clancy, technical college alumnus and owner of ZD Studios, Mark Schmitz, Madison, and several current students spoke about the impact the technical colleges have across the state.

The Wisconsin Technical College System has 16 technical college districts throughout Wisconsin, which offer more than 300 programs awarding two-year associate degrees, one- and two-year technical diplomas and short-term technical diplomas. In addition, the System is the major provider of customized training and technical assistance to Wisconsin’s business and industry community. More than half of all adults in Wisconsin have accessed the technical colleges for education and training. The technical colleges have been making futures for 100 years. Learn more at www.witechcolleges.org.