For Immediate Release
Contact: Daniel Wackershauser, Marketing and PR Specialist
Phone: 608.822.2303
Mail: 1800 Bronson Blvd., Fennimore, WI 53809
Date of Release: June 29, 2026
New Leader, Shared Mission: Dr. Jeremy Pickard Begins Southwest Tech Presidency
Fennimore -Southwest Wisconsin Technical College welcomed Dr. Jeremy Pickard as its sixth president today, beginning a new chapter for a college nationally recognized for transforming lives through education, workforce development, and community partnerships. Pickard officially assumed the role June 29 and will lead the institution as it continues its mission of expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and preparing students for meaningful careers.
Pickard assumes the presidency following a comprehensive national search led by the Southwest Tech District Board. He succeeds Interim President Caleb White, who provided leadership and continuity during the transition period.
“Southwest Tech changes lives every day, and we were looking for a leader who understands both the power of education and the responsibility we have to the communities we serve,” said Chris Prange, chair of the Southwest Tech District Board. “Dr. Pickard brings a deep belief in student success, strong experience building partnerships with employers and schools, and a genuine appreciation for the role technical colleges play in strengthening local economies and creating opportunity for families.”
Prior to joining Southwest Tech, Pickard served as vice chancellor of academic affairs at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges, where he provided executive oversight for academic strategy, online learning, concurrent enrollment and multicampus operations. Throughout more than two decades in higher education leadership, he has helped strengthen student outcomes, expand workforce training opportunities and develop partnerships with K-12 schools, employers and community organizations.
Among his accomplishments, Pickard helped lead a successful $40 million bond initiative that established four Career Advancement Centers, expanding career and technical education opportunities for learners in both rural and urban communities. During his tenure, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges also experienced enrollment growth, improved retention and completion rates, and earned recognition as an Aspen Top 200 institution.
A student-centered and community-minded leader, Pickard grew up working construction and credits those experiences with shaping his appreciation for skilled trades, hard work and hands-on learning. “As I begin this new role, I am honored to join a college with such a strong reputation for transforming lives and strengthening communities,” said Pickard. “Southwest Tech’s commitment to students, workforce excellence and regional partnerships is inspiring. Renea and I are excited to become part of southwest Wisconsin, meet the people who make this region special and work together to build an even stronger future.”
Pickard and his wife, Renea, have five children and four grandchildren.
Southwest Tech recently earned national recognition for excellence in student outcomes and workforce impact and remains focused on expanding access, strengthening completion and preparing graduates for high-demand careers throughout southwest Wisconsin. As president, Pickard looks forward to listening, learning and engaging with students, employees, alumni, business partners and community members across the district.