For Immediate Release
Contact: Katie Glass, Executive Director of Marketing/Public Information Officer
Phone: 608.822.2411
Mail: 1800 Bronson Blvd., Fennimore, WI 53809
Date of Release: February 27, 2026
Dr. Jeremy Pickard named new President
Currently serving as Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges
Fennimore -
The Southwest Wisconsin Technical College District Board has selected Dr. Jeremy L. Pickard as the college’s next president following a comprehensive national search process. Pickard will officially begin his role on July 1, 2026.
Pickard currently serves as vice chancellor of academic affairs at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges, where he provides executive oversight for academic strategy, online learning, concurrent enrollment, and multicampus operations. A student-centered and community-minded leader, he brings more than twenty years of progressive leadership experience in academic and workforce development.
“Dr. Pickard is a thoughtful, collaborative leader who understands the transformative role technical colleges play in strengthening communities and expanding opportunity,” said Chris Prange, chair of the Southwest Tech District Board. “His experience advancing student success, building partnerships, and leading institutional growth positions Southwest Tech well for its next chapter.”
Throughout his career, Pickard has built strong partnerships with K–12 districts, business and industry, and regional organizations. He helped lead a successful $40 million bond initiative that created four new Career Advancement Centers, expanding career and technical education access for rural and urban learners.
Under his leadership, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges experienced enrollment growth, stronger retention and completion, and national recognition as an Aspen Top 200 institution.
Pickard grew up working construction and credits those early years with shaping his respect for skilled trades, hard work, and the value of learning by doing. He and his wife, Renea, have five children, including two who are married, and four grandchildren
Reflecting on his selection, Pickard shared, “Southwest Tech has a remarkable reputation for transforming futures. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as president and look forward to getting to know the people and partnerships that make this region so special. My wife Renea and I are excited to become part of the fabric of southwest Wisconsin.”
The District Board-led search process included engagement opportunities with faculty, staff, students, and community representatives. The Board also extends sincere appreciation to Interim President Caleb White for his steady leadership and commitment to students, employees, and community partners during this transition period.
Southwest Tech, recently recognized nationally for excellence in student outcomes and workforce impact, remains focused on expanding access, strengthening completion, and preparing graduates for high-demand careers across southwest Wisconsin.
Pickard will spend the coming months engaging in transition conversations and preparing to join the college community this summer. The college will host a Meet and Greet Reception for Pickard on Thursday, March 26, from 3-6 p.m. The reception is open to the campus community and members of the public.