what stage of their personal or professional journey . Dworak knows this starts by hiring top talent that believes in the mission and brings out the best in students .
“ I love the work NWTC has done around inclusion in the hiring process . Getting input from direct reports , including a diverse set of voices , and maintaining high levels of transparency ensures future talent will thrive .”
The board members guide the College ’ s direction and ensure graduates have the skills necessary to fill vacancies in the workforce and stimulate local economic prosperity . This includes understanding the dynamics between higher education and industry as well as the needs of the broader community , which Dworak has seen Dr . Rafn balance for over 25 years .
“ For decades , Jeff has built the success of NWTC ,” said Dworak . “ If not for him and his vision , strong leadership , and unwavering commitment to students , I do not know where we would be .”
Soaring Recent Alumni Award recipient overcomes obstacles to provide for his family
At NWTC , we pride ourselves on offering the education you need to advance your career when and where you need it . For some people , that means taking online classes , changing their careers , or obtaining the skills necessary for the next promotion . For our Soaring Recent Alumni Award recipient , Ian Wilson , it meant getting the skills and credentials needed to support his family when they were struggling .
“ After the recession hit , I started taking courses full-time ,” said Wilson . “ I had a young family , and we were living in extreme poverty . I needed to find a way to provide for them , and I was determined to figure it out no matter what .”
Starting back at NWTC was his ticket to a new life . After trying Mechanical Design for a semester , he transitioned to the Architecture program , where he found the skills and support he needed to create a path forward and graduate with honors in 2012 .
“ I was always looking forward ,” said Wilson . “ The Architecture program was the tool I needed to get to the next level and support my family . It let me reach my goals .”
After graduating from NWTC , Wilson embarked on a professional architecture career spanning just three years before deciding to take another leap – starting his own business with his wife , Toni . The firm he was working at experienced financial difficulties , and he was unsure how he would continue to support his family . In a leap of faith , the Wilsons took the last of their savings and started their architecture firm , Nolan Carter Architectural Design . Named after their two sons , the firm is a daily reminder of what matters most .
who provided empowerment and inspiration , and nurtured my curiosity to continuously learn more .”
As a woman in construction , it is important to her to share experiences and model the path to success for young women – especially those entering a predominantly male workforce .
Much of Hussin ’ s inspiration and success comes from her own experiences and centers around a fierce commitment to young adults that might be dismissed as “ not college material ” or “ not typical of a specific role .” Her dedication to giving back to the community , mentoring the region ’ s youth , and creating a skilled workforce echoes the College ’ s core values . Hussin ’ s focus is on creating communities that thrive and opportunities for all , and her successes in making those dreams reality show how far you can go when you set your goals high .
2023 NWTC . EDU 13