Essential Experience Magazine - Western Technical College

Tell Us What You Think!Get a chance to win an iPod shuffle!Your opinionsmatter to us.Western Technical Collegewants to provide readers ofThe Essential Experience witha publication that fully meetstheir needs. Please take afew minutes to fill out ourCONFIDENTIAL online surveyat westerntc.edu.westerntc.eduAll participants will be entered intoa drawing for an iPod shuffle!westerntc.eduWestern graduates have it.Don’t you want it?

Welcome to theEssential Experience!My name is Jessica Klinkner and it is agreat honor to serve as the Western TechnicalCollege Student Ambassador for 2012-2013.I am so excited to have the opportunityto meet new people throughout the nextyear and promote all of the amazing thingsWestern has to offer.I grew up on my family’s organic dairy farmjust outside Cashton, Wis. Agriculture is apassion of mine and after I graduated fromhigh school, I was fortunate to be elected toserve on the Wisconsin State FFA OfficerTeam as Wisconsin State FFA Vice President.Throughout the year, I traveled the statepromoting agriculture and presentingleadership workshops. After my term as astate officer, I was ready to attend collegeand couldn’t be happier with my decision toattend Western.I chose to attend Western for many reasons. My first reason was because of location.Staying close to home was very important to me and attending Western has allowedme to do so. My second reason was financial. Western, along with many technicalcolleges, provides a quality education for a reasonable and manageable price. I wasgoing to be able to complete my degree and receive the same quality education Iwould have anywhere else. The third reason was because Western offers a wide arrayof programs to choose from. Originally when I started college, I enrolled in theRadiography program. Even though my degree has now changed to Marketing, I amstill very happy with my decision.Along with a wide array of programs, Western offers many opportunities for students,from joining and participating in over 30 clubs and organizations and varsity athleticteams to living in the new Western Residence Hall. The students that attend WesternTechnical College are as diverse as the programs offered. When change occurs inour lives, we seek answers and solutions. Western Technical College can provide thatsolution and can be the answer. Western is the link between the classroom and realworld experience with small class sizes, one-on-one learning with instructors, and realworld application.Over the past year, Western celebrated its centennial anniversary of providing anessential education experience. As we embark on Western’s next 100 years, you too canbecome a part of the essential experience. Hope you come and join our family!Jessica KlinknerWestern Technical CollegeStudent AmbassadorSummer 2012 • Volume 7The Essential Experience is published annuallyfor community members, alumni andfriends of Western Technical College. Directcorrespondence to: Amy Thornton, WesternTechnical College, 400 Seventh St. N., P.O. BoxC-0908, La Crosse, WI 54602-0908 or thorntona@westerntc.edu.Visit our website at westerntc.eduExecutive Editor/Marketing SpecialistLeslie Hill-ClatworthyArt DirectionSharon BurchardtContributing WritersJulie LemonPhotographyBruce Defries PhotographyLuke Gilbertson, Kwik TripDirector of Marketing andCommunicationsAmy ThorntonOffice of the PresidentLee Rasch, EdDMission StatementWestern Technical College provides relevant, high qualityeducation, in a collaborative and sustainable environment,that changes the lives of students and grows ourcommunities.© 2012 Western Technical College. All rights reserved.Western is part of the Wisconsin Technical College Systemwith locations in Black River Falls, Independence, La Crosse,Mauston, Sparta, Tomah and Viroqua.Western Technical College is one of sixteen technical collegesthat make up the Wisconsin Technical College System.Western is accredited by the Higher Learning Commissionof the North Central Association. Western is also a memberof the American Association of Community Colleges, theAssociation for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), andthe Wisconsin Association for Career and Technical Education(WACTE). Several of Western’s programs are also accreditedthrough national professional organizations.Western Technical College shall not discriminate on thegrounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation,national origin or citizenship status, age, disability, orveteran’s status in employment, education, and all otherareas of the College. The College provides reasonableaccommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities uponrequest. Questions and complaints about discrimination inany area of the College should be directed to the HumanResource director, 608.785.9166 (voice), or TTY 608.785.9551.Inquiries or complaints about discrimination in employmentmay be referred to the U.S. Equal Employment OpportunityCommission. Inquiries about the College’s compliancewith Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibitsdiscrimination on the basis of race, color, and nationalorigin; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 andTitle II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, whichprohibits discrimination on the basis of disability; Title IXof the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibitsdiscrimination on the basis of sex; and the Age DiscriminationAct of 1975, which prohibits discrimination on the basisof age, may also be referred to the U.S. Department ofEducation, Office for Civil Rights (OCR), Boston, MA 02109-4557, telephone 617.223.9662 (voice) or 617.223.9695 (TTY).Generally, an individual may also file a complaint with OCRwithin 180 days of alleged discrimination. If you have anyquestions regarding the EEO statement please contact theHuman Resource Department: 608.785.9166 (voice), orTTY 608.785.9551.12-S-0191westerntc.edu 1

contents Summer 2012In Every Issue4817Essential NotesNew programs, AutomotiveTechnology, Top 10 college, GEDtesting, and grant award.Programs, offerings &servicesA list of some of the educationoptions available at Western. For acomplete listing, visit westerntc.edu.Alumni SpotlightBoth Mike and Rose Levendoskigot their start at Western. See wheretheir degrees have taken them.Front coverWhen John Woxland lost his job,he didn’t lose his motivation. Hegained a new career.Features36101112141516Western Staff Fill High-Level RolesWestern staff are being recognized nationally for their work.Our Vision is 2020Learn more about our plan to renovate and improve our facilities to meetthe needs of regional employers.Transfer Options AboundMany students start at Western then take their credits somewhere else.Starting OverA permanent layoff had John exploring new opportunities at Western.Western Marks Centennial with CommunityCelebrationSee how Western wrapped up its 100th anniversary in style with acommunity event and time capsule opening.Taking High School Classes for College CreditAgreements with area high schools allow high school students to takecollege-level courses in order to get a jump on their college education,while still fulfilling high school graduation requirements.Western On Par with Community Expectationsfor Sustainable FacilitiesA community survey shows the importance of being “green.”Jessica Klinkner Named Western TechnicalCollege Student AmbassadorMeet our latest ambassador.2 westerntc.edu

Western Staff Asked toFill High-Level Rolesby Julie LemonInstructional Support Services DeanChad Dull, was invited by the U.S.Department of Education to attenda College Completion Symposium andparticipate in a Researcher/Practitioner/PolicyExpert “Think Tank.” The goal of the meetingwas to identify what works for promotingcollege completion, what does not work, andpractical insights for implementation.Chad was the only person in the country torepresent the viewpoint of Basic Educationat the Community/Technical College level.According to his invitation letter, Chad waschosen because his insights and his work arehighly respected and his presence is essential for them to produce a product ofutmost value for the institutions and, ultimately, the students.Throughout the issue,you’ll see QR codes.These “quick response”codes can be scanned withyour smartphone and willtake you to a website for moreinformation about a story.There are many free mobileapplications you can download.Search for “barcode” in theAndroid Marketplace or theApple App Store.Ann Brandau Hynek, director ofCounseling and Enrollment Services atWestern, has been selected to serve on theChair Academy International PractitionerBoard. The mission of The Chair Academyis to design and promote world-class trainingprograms and services to advance academic andadministrative leadership for post-secondaryinstitutions world-wide in an era of change.She serves on the 23-member board witheducational leaders from around the UnitedStates, as well as Canada, the Netherlands,and Australia.Nursing instructor Laurie Ellefsonwas recently named to a critical positionon a specialty nursing board. The Boardof Directors of the Wound, Ostomy, andContinence Nursing Certification Board(WOCNCB) elected Laurie to be the BoardLiaison to the Item Review Committee in2012. The committee plays a critical rolein assuring that the national examinationsdeveloped by the WOCNCB are fair,medically appropriate, and sufficientlystringent to maintain high standards forspecialty certification in wound, ostomy,continence, and foot care nursing.Choose one, andyou’ll beready to go!westerntc.edu 3

notesIdeas and information from Western Technical College and its local communities.New ProgramsThree new programs make their debut this fall. For more information on these orany programs, visit westerntc.edu. Click on Programs.Medical Administrative ProfessionalThe Medical Administrative Professionalprogram prepares students tounderstand, function in, and supervisethe business-related tasks of a medicaloffice. Career opportunities exist inhospitals, clinics, insurance companies,rehabilitation/nursing care facilities.Embedded in the 66-credit program is atechnical diploma entitled Health OfficeProfessional (33 credits) and a certificateentitled Health Office Assistant (12 credits).Building Systems TechnologyThe focus of the Building Systems Technology program is to prepare individualsfor entry-level work in the growing clean energy, energy efficiency, and buildingsystems industry. The first year focuses on providing a sound foundation in thebasic skills that apply to the broad range of building types in the region, while thesecond year focuses on systems integration, energy stimulation, and site designs andanalysis.Human Services AssociateThe Human Services Associate program trains people to provide information,support, care, and advocacy in a human services agency. Graduates are employedin county human services agencies, community based organizations, residentialtreatment programs, schools, inpatient facilities, and other settings that assist peoplein need. Depending on area of interest, graduates work with elders, teens, families,people with disabilities, people in the criminal justice system, domestic and familyviolence, community development, and prevention.Western NamedTop 10 Collegefor VeteransA popular military magazine has namedWestern Technical College one of thenation’s top 10 two-year collegesfor veterans.The Military Timesranked Western 7thon the list, whichexamines participatingschools’ financialassistance, academicflexibility, campusculture, and othersupport services.Western is theonly two-yearcollege inWisconsin tomake the list.GED Testing Will Change in 2014The National GED Testing Service is undergoing a major revision, developingnew tests for release in 2014 and increasing the cost of those tests.Students who have started the GED testing should plan to complete it prior toDecember 2013. Currently, there are five GED tests. If you have not completedall five (5) GED tests, you will be required to re-start testing; scores will notcarry over into 2014.For more information, contact the GOAL program at 1.800.322.9982ext. 59535 or email kellyA@westerntc.edu.Don ByrumSupervisory Managementprogrom graduate4 westerntc.edu

notescont.Automotive Technology ProgramEarns National CertificationThe Automotive Technology program at Westernhas received accreditation by NATEF and TheNational Institute for Automotive ServiceExcellence (ASE) in the following areas:Engine repair, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train and axles,suspension and steering, brakes, electrical/electronic systems, heating and air conditioning,and engine performance.To achieve this coveted recognition, the programunderwent rigorous evaluation by the NationalAutomotive Technicians Education Foundation(NATEF). Nationally accepted standards ofexcellence in areas such as instruction, facilities,and equipment were used.“This is great news for automotive-minded young people and their parents,” saidDonald Seyfer, NATEF Chair. “Because this program increases cooperation betweenlocal education and industry leaders, it gives added assurance that Western’s graduateswill be employable entry-level technicians. As a result of the quality educationprovided by Western Technical College, the motoring public will benefit since betterrepair technicians will join the work force.”Upon completion of the evaluation, NATEF recommended that Western be accreditedby The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). ASE is a nationalnon-profit organization which tests and certifies repair technicians, in addition toaccrediting automotive training programs.Western Receives Piece of $12.69Million Jobs Training GrantWestern Technical College will be able to give extra guidance todislocated workers transitioning into healthcare programs, thanksto money from a recent federal grant. The three-year $12.69million grant was awarded to a consortium of seven colleges in Iowa, Minnesota, andWisconsin, including Western and two other Wisconsin Technical Colleges.BRIDGESH E A L T H C A R EFrom left: Casey Nelson, Jimi Shaw,and Michael RedigWestern StudentTeam Wins VideoCompetitionJimi Shaw (Richland Center, Wis.),Michael Redig (Winona, Minn.), andCasey Nelson (Onalaska, Wis.), visualcommunication students at Western,earned the top prize of $2,000 in theFuturemaker Video Competition sponsoredby the Wisconsin Technical College System(WTCS).The winning entry, “The Hammer thatHit the Nail,” shows how Shaw, Redig andNelson are making their futures and livingtheir passion as filmmakers while studyingat Western. In the short video, Shawdescribes how college helps them networkwith others and use the skills they arelearning now to develop their business. Thestudents are collaborating to form a videoproduction company.The winning video, along with all theentries, are available for viewing at www.wearefuturemakers.com/videocompetition/gallery.In the past three years of the competition,Western students have received two firstplace awards and one second place award.Western’s $2.1 million share of the “Bridges2Healthcare” grant will be used to createpathways and bridges for student success as they enter the healthcare field. The collegehopes that redesigned student services and developmental education made possible bythe funds will lead to better retention and achievement rates.Some of Western’s specific goals include expanding classroom access within severalhealthcare career paths, designing a new instructional model for Anatomy andPhysiology, and providing more intensive advising, tutoring, and intervention efforts.By September 2014, Western plans to increase the number of certificate and degreeholders in the areas of personal care workers, nursing assistants, central servicetechnicians, surgical technologists, human service associates, and medication aides.Scan this to see thewinning videowesterntc.edu 5

Two-thousand twelve marks Western’s centennial year.See how Western’s Vision 2020 plan will carry it into the next century.Vision 2020 is the college’s plan to respond to emerging trends in the regional workforce and design curriculumand delivery methods that will meet the needs of students graduating in 2020 and beyond. By the year 2020,we anticipate an additional 1,000 students will seek training or retraining at Western. The plan will createcareer and educational pathways for students, promote student engagement and retention, provide an affordableeducation, and create a sustainable, energy efficient learning environment.In order to meet those objectives, Western needs to upgrade its facilities to meet 21st Century standardsand to create the kinds of educational spaces that will support business and industry partners in our district.These improved facilities would allow for occupational centers that mimic today’s workplace. Employees nolonger work in isolation. Mechanical designers work with welders. Marketing professionals work with graphicdesigners. Medical assistants work with nurses.Western’s plan would bring that real-world work environment to the classroom. Occupational centers wouldreflect current work environments, giving our students the skills that employers have asked us for. Newprograms and certificates would reflect employment trends, while the delivery of classes, including a newtrimester schedule, evening/weekend college, and online courses, would meet the needs of degree-seekingstudents, as well as incumbent workers taking short-term business and industry training.The Facilities PlanUpgraded and improved facilities would allow the college to increase capacity and better serve a growing and diversestudent population. In order to fund these facilities, Western is seeking voter approval for a $79.8 million facilitiesreferendum to fund six proposed capital facilities projects at Western’s La Crosse Campus. The property tax impact onthe owner of a $100,000 property will be $3.25 per month or $39annually.In 1992, voters passed a referendum to generate funds for upgradingfacilities in Independence, Mauston, Tomah, and Viroqua. That debtwas retired in less than 20 years. “The last time around, we focused onour regional locations,” said Rasch. “Now we need to improve our LaCrosse facilities to better serve the growing number of students whomake Western their college of first choice.” Nearly one-third of highschool graduates from 27 public schools in Western’s district come toWestern within three years of graduating. Ninety-two percent of highschool students attending Western attend at the La Crosse Campus.If approved, the referendum would allow for the following upgrades:6 westerntc.edu

Coleman Center • Built in 1923 and last upgraded in 1971, Coleman isthe oldest building on campus. The proposed updates would include:• A focus on general studies classroom spaces, making them more flexible for avariety of classes.• A defined front door with access that meets the Americans with Disabilities Actrequirements.• Upgraded heating, cooling, electrical, and fire systems to make the building moreefficient, safe, and secure.• Projected budget: $26.5 millionColemanCenterKumm Center • Built in 1970, Kumm has seen significant deferred maintenanceand updates since its construction. The proposal would allow for:• A focus on science and health classrooms.• A reconfiguring of space to allow for increased utilization without expansion ofthe building.• Improved energy efficiency, safety, and security.• Increased natural light through the addition of cut-in windows.• Projected budget: $10.1 millionKumm CenterIntegrated Technology Center • The largest of the projects isthe renovation and expansion of the current Applied Technology Center to create acomprehensive state-of-the-art Integrated Technology Center. The proposed upgradewould:• Allow the industrial technologies programs to consolidate to a single location,creating an advanced manufacturing center.• Co-locate similar courses for more efficient use of space, eliminate redundantequipment, and improve student experience and training.• Allow the building to become a “living laboratory” for students.• Make the building LEED Platinum certified, the highest rating for majorremodeling projects.• Projected budget: $32.6 millionGreen houseIntegratedTechnologycenterDiesel and Heavy Equipment Technician CenterExpansion • This program is currently split between two buildings, literally amile apart, one of which is leased. Remodeling would allow for:• Classroom expansion, particularly because this is a growing industry inour area.• Increased coursework focused on the latest sustainable practices in enginedesign and maintenance.• Money savings from the no-longer-leased annex building.• Projected budget: $4.1 millionGreenhouse • Currently, Western is leasing space at the HillviewGreenhouse to accommodate some of its programs. Building a greenhouse oncampus would:• Allow access for more programs, including landscape, horticulture, culinary,and science.• Introduce students to both conventional and organic growing practices.• Build a partnership with the Hillview Urban Agriculture Center.• Projected budget: $1.6 millionParking Ramp • A large percentage of Western students are commuterswho do not reside on campus and are also working or caring for a family andrequire access to a personal vehicle. Because of Western’s downtown location,space is at a premium. Building a ramp would:• Support the projected increase in the number of students attending Western.• Support student housing.• Projected budget: $4.9 millionWhy Now?There is a growing “skills gap” that is resulting inshortages for a number of higher paid positionsin manufacturing, transportation, and otherareas. The Vision 2020 plan will allow us to movesome of those in low-paying jobs into certificatesand degree programs that will pay graduates ahigher wage.This is a challenging economic time. However,Western plays a vital role in the region’s economicrecovery and we believe that now is the right timeto make an investment for our future studentsand for the area’s workforce. The facilities areneeded to meet the job demands of the presentand the future. Creating more sustainable andenergy-efficient spaces will save money on ourenergy costs.Learn more atwesterntc.edu/vision2020.westerntc.edu 7

Western Technical CollegePrograms, Offerings, and ServicesWestern is committed to providing the essential education and skillsstudents need to succeed in the workplace and in life. Following is alist of some of the educational options available to you. For a completelisting, visit westerntc.edu.Degree ProgramsMore than 60 programs are offeredthat lead to career opportunities.Call 608.785.9200 for moreinformation.Agriculture, Food, and NaturalResourcesAgri-business/Science TechnologyCulinary ManagementFarm Business and ProductionManagementFood Production SpecialistLandscape HorticultureArchitecture, Graphics, and DesignArchitectural TechnologyGraphic DesignLandscape HorticultureMechanical Design TechnologyVisual CommunicationsBusiness and InformationTechnologyAccountingAccounting AssistantAdministrative ProfessionalBusiness ManagementElectronic and ComputerEngineering TechnologyFinanceGraphic DesignHuman Resource ManagementIT–Computer Support SpecialistIT-Computer Support TechnicianIT–Network Systems AdministrationIT–Web and Software DeveloperMarketingMedical Administrative ProfessionalOffice Support SpecialistParalegalSupervisory ManagementEducationEarly Childhood EducationHuman Services AssociateInstructional AssistantInstructional Assistant –ADEngineering and TechnologyArchitectural TechnologyBio-Medical ElectronicsBuilding Systems TechnologyElectronic and ComputerEngineering TechnologyElectronic Systems Installation andMaintenanceElectromechanical TechnologyMachine Tool OperationMechanical Design TechnologyHealth/Behind the ScenesBio-Medical ElectronicsCentral Service TechnicianHealth Information TechnologyMedical Administrative ProfessionalMedical Coding SpecialistMedical Laboratory TechnicianPharmacy TechnicianHealth/Direct Patient CareAdvanced EMTDental AssistantEmergency Medical TechnicianEMT-ParamedicMedical AssistantNursing–Associate DegreeNursing AssistantOccupational Therapy AssistantParamedic TechnicianPharmacy TechnicianPhysical Therapist AssistantPractical NursingRadiographyRespiratory TherapistSurgical TechnologistTherapeutic MassageMechanicalAir Conditioning, Heating,and RefrigerationTechnologyAutomotive TechnicianBuilding SystemsTechnologyDiesel and HeavyEquipment TechnicianElectromechanicalTechnologyElectronic Systems Installation andMaintenanceRefrigeration, Air Conditioning, andHeating Service TechnicianWeldingWood TechPublic SafetyAdvanced EMTCriminal Justice–Law EnforcementCriminal Justice–Law EnforcementAcademyEmergency Medical TechEMT-ParamedicFire Protection TechnicianParamedic Technician8 westerntc.edu

Important Registration Dates:July 30 • Open Registration Begins for Fall Credit CoursesAugust 22 • Fall Semester Begins for Credit CoursesAugust 22 • Fall Semester Begins for Lifelong Learning CoursesLifelong Learning –Open EnrollmentLifelong Learning includesprofessional development,licensure, certification, andworkplace skills courses, providingquality training for you and youremployees. We also offer personalenrichment courses that areboth fun and informative. Call608.789.6100, visit westerntc.edu/lifelonglearning or westerntc.edu/pd for more information. Don’tsee what you want? We offermore than 300 online coursesthrough our educational partnerEd2go. Learn more at ed2go.com/westerntc.Personal EnrichmentArts and HobbiesBusiness/FinancialComputersComputers–MacFood/Nutrition/CookingFurniture & ReupholsteryHealth and WellnessHome and Garden/LandscapingSpanishPhotography/Photoshop ElementsSpecial Interests (e.g. Americanexperience, car care, currentaffairs, small engine repair, etc.)Traffic SafetyWoodworking/WordturningProfessional DevelopmentFloral ArrangingICD-10Insurance Continuing EducationReal Estate Continuing EducationAuctioneering ContinuingEducationAccountingBusinessCommunicationComputersEarly Childhood EducationFood and Food ServiceLeadershipLEANPublic Safety and TradesInstructionalSupport ServicesWestern’s GOAL-Oriented AdultLearning provides a broad rangeof basic skill and literacy servicesto the District’s adult residents. Formore information, call 608.785.9535.Adult Basic EducationBasic literacy services, reading,writing, computation and computerskills are offered, all levels.Developmental StudiesInstruction designed to meetstudent course or skill deficienciesprior to entry into career creditprograms.High School CompletionProgramsGED/HSEDAdult High SchoolEnglish Language Learners (ELL)Instruction designed to assistindividuals whose primary languageis other than English and whoneed to learn to read, write andcommunicate in English.Workforce EducationOn-site coursework and instructionsupporting and promoting theenhancement of workforce skillsand overall job performance.Business andIndustry ServicesEmployee training is the mostcost-effective way to improve theperformance of your organization.Our certified, top-notch trainers willbring high-impact training to yoursite, on your schedule. When youneed an effective solution that candemonstrate immediate resultscall Business & Industry Services at608.785.9232 if you have questions orwould like to discuss training options.Essential Solutions for BusinessStrategic PlanningPerformance and Process ConsultingCoaching/MentoringComputer SkillsEssential Workplace SkillsFinance/Operations/PlanningHealthcareIndustrial/TechnicalLeadership/SupervisionLEAN/Six SigmaMarketing and SalesNeeds AnalysisSafetywesterntc.edu 9

Transfer Options Aboundat Westernby Leslie Hill-Clatworthy2Ar•tic•u•late \ahr-tik-yuh-lit vb -lat•ed; -lat•ing1: to utter distinctly 2: to unite by or as if by joints –ar•tic•u•la•tion \ ahr-tik-yuh-ley-shuhn \nWestern is fast becoming a student’s first stopon the way to a bachelor’s degree. With anincreasing number of transfer options, affordabletuition, and multiple locations, many studentsare choosing Western first. Western offers manyarticulation agreements that allow students toearn credits at Western and then transfer thosecredits to another institution.Associate of Science—Liberal ArtsThe ASLA degree is a two-year liberal artsdegree designed to provide the liberal artsfoundation generally required for bachelor’sdegrees. ASLA is for those students who wantto earn a degree at Western, then transfer toUW-La Crosse or another four-year university.“Students should choose the ASLA degreeoption only when they know that they cantransfer all of the credits fortheir specific major,” saysMaria Strong, a counselor atWestern.Josh KnollWestern transfer student10 westerntc.eduSpecific courses are required,including a minimum of20-25 ASLA math andscience credits atWestern. Oncestudents havecompleted aminimum of 18credits with aGPA of 3.4 orhigher, they canapply to UW-Las a special nondegree-seekingstudent and takesome courses atUW-L. Oncethe degree iscompleted,students canapply to UW-L,or to a number ofother universities,in order to earn abachelor’s degree.University TransferUnlike the ASLA degree, students who choose the University Transfer (UT) optionplan to transfer their credits to a university or technical college, but aren’t interestedin earning an associate’s degree. This option is ideal for students who want to stay atWestern one year, maybe two, pay less money for those general studies credits, thenmove on to earn a bachelor’s degree. The key to moving on successfully, says DougStrauss, EdD, dean of General Studies at Western, is to talk to the university wherethey hope to be accepted. “It’s important to talk to that forwarding institution toensure the credits taken at Western will count,” says Strauss.And Western is increasing the number of classes that will transfer to a university.Strauss notes that in the past two years, Western has expanded its offerings.Courses like Introduction to Philosophy, Introduction to World Religions, CulturalAnthropology and Human Diversity, Spanish, The World in the 20th Century, andIntroduction to Literature have all been added. “We are constantly looking for ways tofacilitate an option for students whose goal is to get a bachelor’s degree,” says Strauss.“Increasing the number of Humanities and other transferrable courses gives studentsincreased choices and options.”Undecided?The first year of college is a time when students learn about time management,personal growth, and freedom. It’s also a time when students start to determine whatis important to them and decide if they have found what they really want to do.“Students can start at Western taking general education classes,” says Strong. “Butwithin a year, they’ll need to figure out what they want to do.”If they don’t know, Strong suggests the Career Services office and Western’s CareerDevelopment class. “Both can help you decide what it is you want to do,” she says. Inthe one-credit Career Development class, instructors provide an in-depth opportunityfor students to participate in personal career development to promote individualgrowth, academic achievement, and career satisfaction. It can help students clarify orvalidate what it is they really want to do with their lives and careers.Strong notes that about 90 percent of transfer students utilize the UT option. Theremaining 10 percent remain at Western to complete a degree, which could includeASLA.Moving forwardWestern continues to find ways toincrease the transfer options availablefor our students, particularly with localinstitutions. “Most students want tostay locally when they graduate,” saysStrong.“We are constantly looking forarticulation agreements withneighboring institutions and with otheruniversities,” says Strauss. “Then, whenour students are ready, they can makethe decision to transfer.”Interested in starting atWestern then transferring?There are several ways to get started.Visit westerntc.edu/transfer to learn about all ofthe transfer options Western has available.Visit the UW Transfer Information System websiteat http://tis.uwsa.edu/ to learn about whichcredits transfer for specific programs and majors.Contact Western’s Counseling Center if you needhelp determining the right path for you. Call ourWelcome Center at 608.785.9553 or 800.322.9982to request a counseling appointment.

Starting Overby Leslie Hill-ClatworthyWhen John Woxland, of Houston, Minn., was permanently laid off fromhis job in December 2008, he knew where he could go to get thetraining and experience he needed to reenter the workforce:Western Technical College. John had already earned twodegrees from Western and knew that with his degree, “I’d beable to get a well-paying job after graduation.”John earned his first degree in Diesel and Heavy EquipmentTechnology in 1985. He earned his second degree in 1992in Machine Tooling Technics. When he graduated in 1992, hewas immediately hired at Trueline, Inc. in La Crosse where hestayed until 1998. A new opportunity arose at TRWBody Systems in Winona, where he worked untilhis permanent layoff due to the slowdown in theautomotive industry.John returned to Western in fall 2009,enrolling in the ElectromechanicalTechnology program. With his experience inthe tool and die industry, coupled with hisprevious degrees, it seemed like a naturalfit. “The electromechanical field is verydiverse and can be applied to many areas,so finding a job wouldn’t be too difficultdespite the slow economy,” says John.Despite being out of school almost 20years, John jumped at the opportunityto start over. “I enjoyed learning theelectronics side from the excellentinstructors at Western,” says John. “I wasn’tvery knowledgeable with the electronics usedin industry and was excited to get training fromthe best!” And his instructors were excited to havehim in class. “John was a dedicated student and ahard worker,” says Jon Burman, Electronics instructor.“There were times when tough concepts wereintroduced and he didn’t take the easy road. He wantedto truly understand it. If he didn’t understand it, hewould stay after class or come in at night until he got it.Plus, he had great hands-on skills and a positive attitude.”You’ve beenlaid off.Now what?• Typically, a laid-off workerbegins the process at theWisconsin Job Center withWorkforce Connectionsor Job Services. Bothorganizations can helpyou identify resources thatyou may qualify for andcan help you get startedif you decide to do someretraining at Western beforereturning to the workforce.• At Western, the CareerServices staff works withincoming students, startingat the pre-admissionsstep, to help you identifyjobs that have highdemand. This informationcan help you choosean academic program.John Woxland chose theElectromechanical programbecause of his previouseducation and experienceand the number of jobsavailable in our area.• Additionally, CareerServices can help youidentify skills and trainingyou already have thatcan transfer to a newcareer. They offer careerassessments that determineyour interests, values, andabilities.That determination paid off. John graduated in May 2011with high honors.Now, he’s working at the Kwik Trip bakery as a maintenancetechnician, “a job I really wanted!” he says. He is responsiblefor repairing, maintaining, and adjusting the equipment usedin the production facility. He works on machines like theconveyor belts, fryers, ovens, anything used in the bakery.“Without my Electromechanical degree, I know I wouldn’thave gotten the job,” says John “Thanks to Western, I havea terrific, stable job at a growing company that appreciates itsemployees.”Scan this to find out moreabout Career ServicesFor more informationabout Career Services, visitwesterntc.edu/careerserviceswesterntc.edu 11

Western Marks Centennialwith Community Celebrationby Julie LemonWestern Technical College celebrated its 100th anniversary this past academicyear, culminating with a Community Centennial Celebration on Monday,May 14 on the La Crosse main campus. Western students, staff, and faculty, aswell as the public, were invited to the Cleary Courtyard to celebrate Western’spast, present, and future.Bill Welch, Sr., retired dean of the Industrial Technologies Division, was anhonored speaker at the celebration and gave an overview of the formative yearsof the college. Although this took place before Welch was even born, he tookgreat interest in the history of the college where he worked from 1961-1986.Distinguished speakers included (left to right)Mayor Matt Harter, John Medinger, SenatorJennifer Shilling, Representative Jill Billings,and 1987 District Star Award Winner andcurrent college employee Sandra Schultz.Founded in 1912 as the La Crosse Continuation and Adult Schools, Westernwas a place for students who did not continue on to high school to achieveanother form of compulsory education. The purpose was to provide hands-ontraining for technical careers of the time.The school was originally housed in the Longfellow School (First Ward)building on the corner of 6th and Vine Streets. The building was destroyed in afire in 1922, forcing officials to consider new accommodations.“I’ll pick it up (the college’s history) in 1923, which was the year I was born,and also the year that the vocational building on 6th and Vine St. was built,”said Welch in his speech. “It was the first building in the state to be builtspecifically for a vocational school. Maybe even the first in the country. We werea leader at that time.”Western President Lee Rasch holds up acopy of a winter 1987 edition of Nightlife, thecourse schedule for night classes, as DistrictBoard President Tom Smith looks on.Jessica Klinkner, the 2012 student ambassador, brought the audience back tothe present, but remarked how attending a 100-year-old college proves howstrong and determined the college is in providing the area with an educationthat they cannot get anywhere else.“Because of Western’s history, students like me are able to receive the highestquality education there is available,” said Klinkner. “I’m so proud to be astudent at Western Technical College.”Retired Dean of the Industrial TechnologiesDivision Bill Welch, Sr. recounts a bit ofWestern’s history both from his yearsat the college (1961-1986) and itsformative years.Celebration attendees were also witness to the opening of a time capsulefrom 1987. The capsule had been encased for the past 25 years in a cementbox within one of the pillars holding up the link between the Kumm andColeman Centers. Inside the cement, the items had beenplaced in a copper box to protect and preserve them.The box was placed on stage for Western President LeeRasch and District Board Chair Tom Smith to open,revealing the 25-year-old items. Inside, everything waswrapped in brown plastic garbage bags and remained ingood condition. (See the sidebar of a sampling of itemsfrom the time capsule.) The items are currently in thecollege library and will eventually be on display in thelink between the Kumm and Coleman Centers.12 westerntc.edu

Submissions of current items and publications were collected for anew time capsule to be opened during the College’s sesquicentennialcelebration in 2062. (See highlights in sidebar.) In dedicating theitems during the community event, President Rasch talked about thechanges the college has gone through and the changes that are tocome in the next several years.“I don’t know what Western will be like in 2062, but my vision ofthe future is a bright one,” he said. “It’s going to require the samething that goes back to the beginning – hard work on our part tostay committed to students and student success.”Western Technical CollegeCommunity Centennial CelebrationMonday, May 14, 201210:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.Cleary Courtyard, La Crosse Main CampusProgram10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.WelcomeJulie Lemon, Public Relations SpecialistIntroductionDr. Lee Rasch, Western Technical College PresidentRecognition of Service toU.S. Senator Herb KohlAccepted by John MedingerMayoral ProclamationMathias Harter, Mayor, City of La CrosseResolutionJennifer Shilling, Wisconsin State SenatorJill Billings, Wisconsin Assembly RepresentativeRecollections of the PastWilliam Welch, Sr., Retired Dean of Industrial Technologies DivisionCinda Vingers, 1977 Secretarial Services graduateSandra Schultz, 1987 District Star Award WinnerStudent PerspectiveJessica Klinkner, 2012 Student AmbassadorObservations of TodayTom Smith, Chairman, Western District BoardOpening of 1987 Time Capsule &Presentation of New Time Capsule ItemsDr. Lee Rasch & Tom SmithDedication to the FutureDr. Lee RaschHighlights from the1987 Time Capsule• Periodicals of the Day: Time,Newsweek, and U.S. News• Newspapers: The La CrosseTribune, The Milwaukee Journal,St. Paul Pioneer Press Dispatch,and USA Today• Automotive Computer• Floppy Disks• Microchip from Apple Computer• Phototype Set Paper and PolaroidFilm from Kodak• Copies of ZEAL and Trail Blazespublications• John B. Coleman’s book entitled:The Rag-Tag and the Bobtail• Computer Graphic Filmstrip• Film: “WWTI and Your Future”Highlights for theNext Time Capsule• Periodicals of the day: Time,Newsweek• Newspapers of the day: TheLa Crosse Tribune, The WisconsinState Journal• Retiree interview video on DVD &transcript• Key drive with online catalog on it• Centennial pin• Cavalier baseball hat• Rocks with the College valuesengraved on them• BlackBerry smart phone, plusbattery and charger• 3-D Model of “Western TechnicalCollege 2012” printed on theMechanical Design StratasysRapid Prototype MachineScan this to find out more about Western’s Centennialwesterntc.edu 13

Taking High SchoolClasses for College CreditAgreements with area high schools allow high school students to take college-level courses while stillfulfilling high school graduation requirements.by Leslie Hill-ClatworthyWhen students enroll in MelindaGoplin’s Agriculture classes atWhitehall High School, they getmore than just high school credit.Goplin has partnered with Western toprovide transcripted credit for two coursesshe teaches: Horticulture and GreenhouseManagement, and Basic Animal Science.Transcripted credit, sometimes called dualcredit, allows students to earn technicalcollege credit and high school credit atthe same time. Courses are taught at thehigh school by high school instructorswho modify their courses to meet therequirements for transcription.Goplin used the standard curriculum foranimal science and plant science at thetechnical college level and compared it to hercurriculum. She found areas that she didn’ttouch on and developed ways to build thosetopics into her lessons. In this case, Goplinutilized a program calledMyCaert, and workedwith Tracy Harper,agribusiness instructorat Western, “to walkthrough the curriculumand help make sure ourstudents’ experiencewould be similar inthe topics taught,” saysGoplin. “We shareresources, such as fieldtrip sights, current events,or other interestinginformation pertaining to class.” Harpereven visits her classroom with her Labradorretrievers to do a lesson on animal behaviorand health with Goplin’s students.Western Agribusiness Instructor Warren Pickar works with ag students. These are justsome of the courses high school students can take for college credit.Transcripted credit courses are a great option for high school students—and theirparents. “Students, and parents, today want to know they are getting their time andmoney’s worth out of each class that fills their schedule,” says Goplin. Nearly everystudent who registers for Goplin’s classes signs up for the credits. At the beginningof the semester, she explains the“I always enjoy the opportunity to sharemy interests, knowledge, and passionfor agricultural careers,” says Harper.“Opportunities in agricultural-related careershave never been better and making studentsaware of these opportunities ensures ourfuture in food and fiber production.”Tracy Harper, Western Agribusiness Instructorrequirements, grading scales, and otherimportant information to get studentsexcited about this opportunity. “Whilea few students decide at the end of thesemester that they do not wish to havethe grade they received on their officialtranscript, most just rise to the occasionand put in a bit more effort to get thatoutstanding grade to show they areready for further education beyond highschool,” she says.For the students in Goplin’s classes,transcripted credit is an important option. “My students can obtain higher educationcredits while still in high school,” she says. This gives them a head start if they decide toenroll in Western programs after high school, but may also count as an elective class atmost other institutions as well. It is a win-win situation!”14 westerntc.eduFor more information about agreements Western has with other high schoolsin our district, visit www.westerntc.edu/highschool/agreements.aspx.

Western on Par withCommunity Expectationsfor Sustainable Facilitiesby Julie LemonIn a recent survey of community members throughout the district, Westernsupplied a list of potential facility improvement projects and asked theparticipants to rank the projects in order of most importance to them.Energy efficiency came out on top by a significant margin.“We knew it would be high on the list, but were a little surprised to see it at thetop,” said Mike Pieper, vice president of finance and operations. “Sustainability isalso important to us, and we’re happy that our community members agree with thedirection we’re heading.”In 2007, Western President Lee Rasch signed a pledge to sharply reduce andeventually eliminate all of the college’s global warming emissions. Two years ago,Western implemented a staff education campaign to conserve energy that has savedthe college more than a quarter million dollars in utility costs. (See side bar for moreinformation on savings.)And Pieper, who serves as the chair of the college’s sustainability task force, has beencommitted to implementing sustainable practices in all of Western’s building plans,including the projects in the Vision 2020 facilities plan described on page 6.All of the remodeling will incorporate some type of energyefficiency. New heating, ventilating, and air conditioningunits are at the top of the list for the Coleman, Kumm, andIntegrated Technology Centers.“The Coleman Center is currently running on steam boilersfrom the 1960s and an old pulley system running a massivefan from the 1930s,” said Pieper. “This system doesn’tallow the college to operate classroom heating and coolingindividually. If one classroom is used on the weekend, thenthe entire building must be up and running. The new heatingand cooling system will allow for control in each room.”Western’s energy savingsto date two years afterimplementingconservationprogramWestern hassaved over$250,000 inutility costs!In addition, the energy conservationprogram has impacted our communitiesby conserving:• 1,538,895 kWh in electricity• 131,778 Therms of natural gas• 11,000 gallons of waterThis avoidance in utility usage isequal to:• 1,902 metric tons of carbon dioxideemissions being prevented• 341 cars taken off the highwayannually• Over 48,643 tree seedlings plantedand grown in ten years7 Rivers RegionSustainability Conference:“Sustainable Business Practices to Improve Your Bottom Line”Friday, October 12Western Technical College Lunda Center319 7th St. N., La CrosseAdditionally, the Kumm Center, built in 1970, has very fewwindows in its current design. The remodeling plan includesadding more windows to allow for more natural lighting andless artificial lighting, resulting in energy savings.The Integrated Technology Center would be completed usingLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)Platinum standards, the highest level for major remodelingprojects.Western also hopes to extend its sustainability efforts into thecommunity and has plans to create a Sustainability Institutefor leading organizations in the 7 Rivers Region to sharebest practices and learn from one another. A conference setfor Friday, Oct. 12 is the first step in creating a group ofbusinesses interested in sustainability and green initiatives.(See the sidebar for details on the conference.)The goals of this conference venue are to allow for:• The business community to have a dialogue aboutand learn more about sustainability’s positive effecton the bottom line• The 7 Rivers Region Community to learn from each other• The emergence and creation of long-term “communitiesof interest” surrounding sustainability and green initiativesfor continued dialogue, learning and sharing• The WI DHS—Division of Public Health(Green Chemistry) and the WI DNR(Green Tier) groups to promoteparticipation in their efforts withinour regionCost is $45.For more information or to register,visit www.westerntc.edu/SustainabilityInstitute.westerntc.edu 15

Jessica Klinkner Named WesternTechnical College Student Ambassadorby Leslie ClatworthyJessica Klinkner, from Cashton, has been selected as the 2012-2013 Western TechnicalCollege Student Ambassador, an official spokesperson for Western and the WisconsinTechnical College System.Jessica is a second-year Marketingstudent, with a passion for agricultureand education. Jessica was raised on anorganic dairy farm, which gives her anappreciation for hard work and dedication.After graduating high school in 2009,she took a year off from school and waselected to serve on the State of WisconsinOfficer Team as Wisconsin State FFAVice President where she presented manyleadership workshops and promoted theimportance of agriculture all over the state.Since enrolling at Western, she has becomeinvolved in several extracurricular activitieson campus. She is very active in Phi ThetaKappa, the International Honor Societyof the Two-year College, serving as vicepresident of College Relations. Whileserving as vice president, she introducedthe initiative, Commit to Complete. Thisnational project was created to encourageEach year, Western Technical Collegechooses one of its outstanding studentsas the Student Ambassador to serveas a spokesperson for the college atcommunity events, using his or herexperiences to help develop awarenessof the Wisconsin Technical CollegeSystem and the value of occupationaland technical education. Studentsare chosen based on their academicexcellence, leadership skills, andcommunity involvement.students to commit to college and completetheir degrees.“Jessica has been the driving force inour Phi Theta Kappa chapter this year,”said Dan Rooney, advisor for PTK whonominated Klinkner for the honor.“Her outgoing personality, consistentlypositive attitude, and polished speakingskills will allow her to be a fantasticstudent ambassador.”She also serves as a new studentorientation leader, sharing herstory and experiences with newand incoming students. “I hopeto help make the transition intocollege a little bit easier for newstudents.”“I’m very passionate about what Westernstands for and its values,” said Klinkner.“Making a difference andpositively influencing others isimportant to me. It’s a greatprivilege to be a spokespersonfor Western.”As Student Ambassador,Jessica will haveopportunities to speakto potential students,community leaders,community groups, andothers, and will spotlight theimportant role of technicaland occupational educationto the economy and society.In addition, she will representWestern at the state level byworking with other studentambassadors throughout theWTCS.16 westerntc.edu

alumni SpotlightMike and Rose Levendoskiearned their degrees at Western.Those degrees allowed them topursue and build careers theyboth love at Dairyland Power andLogistics Health, Inc.Why Western?Western was a local and affordable option for each of us.Mike had just completed four years in the Navy, where he hadexposure to boiler operations and electrical power. Westernoffered an associate’s degree in Electrical Power. I had intendedto go to UW-La Crosse for social work; however, the nightbefore classes were to begin, I decided to join friends who wereattending Western. And I’m glad I did!How did your education prepare you for what youdo now?Western provided the excellent foundation for both Mike andme to build upon for our careers. In Mike’s case, the attainmentof an associate’s degree in Electrical Power gave him the necessaryqualifications for advancement at Dairyland Power throughoutthe years. For me, in my short 9 months at Western, I gainedthe critical skills I needed to land an entry-level position inHuman Resources. From there, my Western education and workexperience assisted me in pursuing additional promotions.How did you get to this point in your careers?Both of us learned early in life the value of hard work and weattribute this, along with our Western education, to be whatcontributed to our successful and rewarding careers.What do you like best about your job?I love the company and the people I work for and with. I likebeing able to make a difference in people’s lives! In my currentrole at LHI, I have had the opportunity of developing both aformalized compensation structure and a new benefits programfor the employees and the growing organization. It’s been agood challenge and a very rewarding success story. I also verymuch enjoy being able to mentor employees new to the HumanResources role.best days are those which are filled with finding solutions toproblems/issues.What is life like outside of work?Although you can see that I thoroughly love my work (and sodid Mike until his recent retirement), life outside of work is evenbetter! We have been married for 36 years and raised our fourchildren on our farm, which overlooks the Mississippi River.Over the years, thefarm kept Mike busyand now in retirementhe does things onthe farm at a slowerpace. We are activein our communitywith the Lions andLionesses. We have twogranddaughters whohave brought a wholenew dimension to life.We enjoy doing manyactivities with family.Do you haveadvice for futurecollege students?Yes, a couple of things. Find an exciting and meaningful job thatyou like–in doing so, you will never go to work. Be flexible–change is constant. Most college students today will not onlychange positions and employers, but often have totally newcareers. When one door closes, don’t be afraid to open a newone. Maintain a sense of humor and balance your work and life.And lastly, let others help you along the way. You’ll never achievesuccess alone–allow your family and friends to help.For Mike: it’s the hours–he’s retired!What is a typical day like?There is no “typical” in Human Resources! No two days are everthe same! Some days are fire-fighting, others may be filled withmeetings, and then there are days set aside for project work. TheAre you a Western Technical College Alum?Then we want to hear from you! Go to westerntc.edu/alumni/aboutyou.asp and send us your information!westerntc.edu 17

400 Seventh Street NorthLa Crosse, WI 54601Non-Profit Org.U.S. PostagePAIDLa Crosse, WIPermit No. 373westerntc.eduWestern has agreementswith the followingcolleges and universities:Transferring to afour-year college?Amber Patterman & Josh KnollWestern transfer studentsAt Western Technical College, you have options when itcomes to transfer. Western has articulation agreementswith a number of four-year colleges and universities thatallow you to take some or all of your credits andtransfer to a baccalaureate program.Capella UniversityCardinal StritchFerris State UniversityFranklin UniversityKaplan UniversityLakeland CollegeMilwaukee School of EngineeringMinnesota State College -Southeast TechnicalOttawa UniversitySilver Lake CollegeUniversity of PhoenixUniversity of Wisconsin SystemUW–Eau ClaireUW–Green BayUW–La CrosseUW–MadisonUW–MilwaukeeUW–OshkoshUW–ParksideUW–PlattevilleUW–River FallsUW–Stevens PointUW–StoutUW–WhitewaterUpper Iowa UniversityViterbo UniversityWinona State UniversityCheck the website at westerntc.edu/getstarted/transfer for more information.