For Immediate Release
Contact: Daniel Wackershauser, Marketing and PR Specialist
Phone: 608.822.2303
Mail: 1800 Bronson Blvd., Fennimore, WI 53809
Date of Release: February 18, 2026
Student voices integrated into workforce innovation efforts
Fennimore -Students in Southwest Wisconsin Technical College’s English Composition I courses played a direct role in shaping conversations about career readiness and post-graduation wages this fall, thanks to a collaborative classroom initiative tied to the college’s Capacity Building Grant.
As part of the grant’s goal to strengthen processes for consistently including student voices, English 101 faculty asked students to tackle a real-world question: How can Southwest Tech help ensure high wages for all graduates?
Students worked in groups in in-person sections of the course to research data, analyze trends and develop persuasive, evidence-based solutions. The project aligned with the courses’ persuasive research paper module, requiring students to evaluate information and make informed recommendations supported by research. “We really liked the research component,” said Anna Hiti, communication instructor. “It had students look at and analyze the provided data and make educated decisions based on the information. Their answers were incredibly insightful.”
The group format allowed students to collaborate, debate ideas and present their findings before voting on the most compelling proposal to elevate to administration. Because of the collaborative structure, the activity was implemented in in-person courses, where group facilitation was more feasible.
Among the top proposals from student presentations was expanding internships, externships and employer partnerships. The recommendation closely aligned with work already underway at the college.
Two years ago, Southwest Tech launched a Work-Based Learning model requiring programs to integrate four WBL assignments or activities into their curriculum. During the 2024-25 academic year, programs were introduced to the model and asked to implement at least two of the four components. Faculty were then asked during the August 2025 in-service to develop the remaining assignments, with full implementation expected by May. “The students’ ideas reinforced the direction the college is already moving,” said Jen Lame, academic lead and HIT/Medical Coding program director. “This project demonstrates how faculty and administration are intentionally asking for student input and listening as decisions are being made.”
By connecting classroom research to institutional strategy, Southwest Tech continues to strengthen the link between academic learning and career readiness – ensuring students not only prepare for the workforce, but help shape its future.
| Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is one of 16 institutions that comprise the Wisconsin Technical College System. The college was named the winner of the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence in 2025. Southwest Tech offers more than 60 programs in a wide variety of disciplines. Courses are offered on campus, online, HyFlex and in a blended format. The college provides apprenticeship, certificate, technical diploma, and associate degree programs that respond to district workforce needs and prepare student for family-sustaining jobs and career advancement. |