Bilingual cohort named Inspiring Program in STEM by INSIGHT Into Diversity Magazine
Gene Haas Foundation invests in Northeast Wisconsin ’ s manufacturing pipeline
Addressing the need for a skilled manufacturing workforce in Northeast Wisconsin , the Gene Haas Foundation gifted NWTC $ 500,000 – one of the largest donations in the College ’ s history – to strengthen the future of the growing industry .
“ Combining the innovation from a world-class industry leader in CNC technology with the manufacturing power of Northeast Wisconsin is a great opportunity for NWTC ,” said Dr . Kristen Raney , NWTC president . “ This partnership with the Gene Haas Foundation will provide financial support for our students and resources to ensure our community continues to thrive .”
The grant donation will help build a long-term pipeline for students pursuing careers in manufacturing by funding financial aid , academic coaching , recruitment , and more crucial academic needs .
“ The Gene Haas naming grant program was developed nine years ago to serve as an endorsement of the best CNC training programs in North America and now has expanded to Europe as well ,” said Kathy Looman , director of education of the Gene Haas Foundation . “ We are very impressed with the team and level of training at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College and proud to honor them with this grant .”
Bilingual cohort named Inspiring Program in STEM by INSIGHT Into Diversity Magazine
In September , NWTC received the 2023 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine , the largest and longest-standing DEI publication within higher education .
The award honors colleges and universities that encourage and assist students from underrepresented groups to enter the fields of science , technology , engineering , and mathematics . Award winners were selected by INSIGHT Into Diversity based on efforts to inspire and encourage a new generation of young people to consider careers in STEM through mentoring , teaching , and research .
“ NWTC is committed to advancing workforce equity and removing barriers to higher education ,” said Dr . Sara Lam , NWTC vice president of Diversity , Equity , and Inclusion . “ We are truly honored for this recognition of that work .”
Piloted in 2021 , the College launched an identity-and language-based cohort model for bilingual students to progress through NWTC ’ s Industrial
Maintenance Certificate with a group of peers and embedded Spanishspeaking coaches . Now entering its third year , the bilingual cohort model has expanded into additional programs areas and helped dozens of students earn a credential .
“ NWTC ’ s bilingual cohort model has been a great success ,” said Jill Thiede , NWTC associate dean of Trades and Engineering Technologies . “ It provides a sense of belonging and inclusion and promotes peer collaboration for students progressing through STEM programs .”
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