ALUMNI STORIES
James Kilsdonk receives Distinguished Alumni Award
De Pere company recognized for dedication to education
NWTC has named Robinson Inc . of De Pere as the 2021 Soar Higher Partner Award recipient . Robinson is recognized for its commitment to the education and workforce development of the region ’ s manufacturing base .
Robinson is a learning partner at all levels of education , from K-12 to post-secondary . In addition , the single-source metal solutions provider has created a workplace environment that encourages lifelong education . The company supports an apprenticeship program ; provides hands-on experience in welding , fabrication , and design to high school students ; and offers employees tuition assistance and flexible scheduling for college coursework . Robinson has also made college possible for hundreds of NWTC students by financially supporting the welding , machine tool , and mechanical design technology programs .
NWTC is honored to recognize Robinson for its shared passion for lifelong learning and its dedication to education in Northeast Wisconsin .
ROBINSON HAS ALSO MADE COLLEGE POSSIBLE FOR HUNDREDS OF NWTC STUDENTS BY FINANCIALLY SUPPORTING THE WELDING , MACHINE TOOL , AND MECHANICAL DESIGN TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS .
James Kilsdonk , market president at Old National Bank and 2008 marketing graduate , is the recipient of NWTC ’ s 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award . Kilsdonk is a young professional soaring through the banking ranks , giving back to his community , championing two-year education , and embodying the core values of NWTC in his work .
Kilsdonk began college pursuing mechanical design but soon found a passion for marketing that changed his major and career trajectory . For him , NWTC was about more than obtaining a degree ; it was about having “ a place to help you find yourself while earning an exceptional education to prepare a person for their career .”
Giving back For over 10 years , Kilsdonk has been an advocate for technical and twoyear education . He has given annual presentations on college readiness and financial planning to high school seniors and has helped NWTC create alumni spotlight video footage . He also gives back to his community through volunteer work . Kilsdonk has been a volunteer for Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Wisconsin since 2008 and now sits on its board of directors . He is also on the board for the Pulse Young Professional Network .
14 FRIENDS OF NWTC FALL 2021