Nicolet College students design food pantry

From wjfw.com: “Northwoods college students design food pantry” — RHINELANDER – Some local college students helped design the new Rhinelander Area Food Pantry building. Nicolet Technical College Business Management and Marketing students created the plans for the building.

It took them the entire semester to come up with the design.

“It’s been super exciting,” says Bailey Wheeler, Nicolet Technical College Student. “We started out being a little bit overwhelmed with it but it’s definitely as the time went on we got used to the whole project, and I think we were able to narrow it down a little bit and really see how we were able to help.”

Students were divided into three groups to come up with the new design. Each group handled a different section of the building. After the plans were submitted an architectural student rendered the design. Doing this project gave students real world experience.

“This is a powerful way of learning,” Dianne Lazear, Business management program instructor. “It allows students to concretely see what they’ve learned and use it in a way that matters.”

“These students are engaged and they are committed to the project. For an instructor having commitment and enthusiasm from your students about what they’re learning and doing is just the sweet spot of teaching,” says Lazear.

The Rhinelander Area Food Pantry will move into the new building in July.

Nicolet offering new Electromechanical Technology degree

From wjjq.com: “Nicolet offering new Electromechanical Technology Degree” — Continuing to work with area manufacturers, Nicolet College has announced a new degree in Electromechanical Technology.

The new associate degree focuses on the electronics and computers that control the systems to operate a production line. The college surveyed area employers such as Printpack, Foster and Smith and PCA to gauge demand for the skill set.

Brigette Kumbier, dean of Trade and Industry at Nicolet says the manufactures were excited to hear the college was looking at starting the program and strongly supported Nicolet in the effort.

Graduates with the degree are able to install, troubleshoot, repair and upgrade electronic and computer-controlled mechanical systems.

This raises the number of manufacturing credentials at Nicolet to 12, ranging from certificates to associate degrees. Often credits earned in the certificate programs can also be applied to the degree programs.

Classes in the new Electromechanical Technology program are expected to start in the Fall Semester of 2014.

Gov. Walker signs Youth Apprenticeship bill at Nicolet College

From wxpr.org: “Gov. Walker signs Youth Apprenticeship bill in Rhinelander” — Governor Scott Walker has signed a bill in Rhinelander that he says will help employers get more skilled workers to companies. Youth Apprenticeship integrates high school-based and work-based learning to instruct students in skills defined by Wisconsin industries. It works with local school districts and the area technical colleges.

Stopping at Nicolet College to sign the Youth Apprenticeship Walker says the bill passed both legislative chambers with just one “no” vote, showing broad bi-partisan support. The program is already in action, but the new funding enlarges the program. 1900 students went through the program last year Walker says…

“….we were able to put a half-million(more) in each year…for a total of $4.6 million dollars that will be invested in this program. And in doing so, we’ll be able to place 550 more individuals into this youth apprenticeship program….”

Walker says manufacturing, agriculture, architecture, information technology and healthcare are targeted for apprenticeships. Walker says the business community needs skilled workers in these areas now…

　“….many of our employers across the state, particularly our small and mid-sized employers would add more work but they’re a little bit resistant to do that right now until they know they can fill the positions they have for things like high-skilled welders, CNC operators, machinists, tool-and-dye operators….”

Walker says manufacturing jobs pay more, have more benefits and workers stay longer than many other jobs.

 

New jail administrator is Nicolet College grad

From marshfieldnewsherald.com: “Marathon County names new jail administrator” — WAUSAU — After months of sharp criticism and controversy surrounding operations at the Marathon County Jail, officials have named a new leader to complement changes already in motion at the facility.

Sandra La Du-Ives, who currently serves as jail administrator at the Oneida County Jail, will begin her new role Dec. 8; she was chosen from a pool of nearly 30 applicants from across the country. Marathon County Sheriff Scott Parks said the change in leadership is part of an overall transformation at the facility, which has undergone intense scrutiny since a March 27 attack on two corrections officers.

“We laid out our expectations for each applicant, and Sandra stood out among the rest,” Parks said. “She understands there is a great deal of work to be done and wants to be a part of that process.”

La Du-Ives was named jail administrator in Oneida County in April after the death of 19-year veteran Kaye Juel. She is a graduate of Nicolet Area Technical College and served as the assistant jail administrator for four years prior to her promotion. La Du-Ives also worked as a corrections officer for Oneida County for nine years. Efforts to reach La Du-Ives were not successful Friday.

A report issued in July by a panel of five community leaders outlined a host of deep-rooted problems at the jail — many which have already been addressed — and recommended massive changes to jail procedures and training. A five-member citizen review panel tasked with identifying the jail’s failings and recommending solutions issued the report; the panel found dozens of issues that need to be corrected and suggested changes that could lead to the termination of employees who do not rise to meet new performance expectations.

Major changes underway

Chief Deputy Chad Billeb said officials have embraced the panel’s recommendations and made immediate changes to procedures at the jail. The jail intercom system, once broken, is now back online and working properly; the central housing control unit, which once stood empty after a major communications system failure, is staffed 24 hours a day after the system was repaired. More than 10 cameras have been added to eliminate blind spots, and many of the more than 100 existing cameras were upgraded, Billeb said.

Officials also have addressed concerns by the panel and repeated concerns by jail inspectors about unacceptably low staffing levels at the facility. Two new corrections officers have been hired since the report was released, and two more will be named in the coming weeks, Billeb said, bringing the number of jail staff members up to the recommended level of 48. That number includes a jail administrator, six lieutenants and 41 corrections officers.

“The report gave us a road map of where we need to go,” Billeb said. “We shared that road map with our job candidates, including Sandra, so she knows exactly what our expectations will be.”

Not every applicant was quite so interested in a job that will entail fighting overcrowding and other infrastructure issues; three candidates dropped out after receiving the same information, Parks said.

Sheriff’s officials are enthusiastic about two programs they believe will significantly reduce the population in a facility that is consistently filled beyond its intended capacity of 279. On Friday morning, the jail housed 297 inmates; an additional 47 inmates were housed at jails in Lincoln and Shawano counties, according to jail reports.

The Marathon County Board on Tuesday passed a resolution that will allow nonviolent offenders to earn one day of early release for every 12 hours worked in community service at a variety of local agencies. The county’s five circuit court judges signed off on the program Thursday, Billeb said. That program will begin Nov. 1.

The second proposal, which mimics programs in Dane and Walworth counties, would allow inmates who qualify for Huber release to avoid sitting in jail altogether. Instead, inmates would do their time in their homes while monitored electronically. Only nonviolent offenders and people who live and work in areas with cellphone reception would qualify for the program, Billeb said.

For both programs, only inmates already eligible for Huber will be considered to participate. The Huber law allows inmates who have been sentenced to leave the jail to work or search for work, attend school and care for their children for up to 12 hours each day; Huber inmates pay a fee of $17 per day to participate in the program.

An ongoing process

Officials say they are committed to making the changes they know are necessary to create an environment at the jail that is safe for workers and for inmates. Hiring a new administrator from outside the county will allow for a fresh perspective during the rebuilding process.

“Sometimes when you look in the mirror, you don’t always have the clearest view of yourself,” Parks said. “This will provide us the opportunity to look at ourselves clearly and without bias.”

Both Parks and Billeb praised the efforts of Paul Mergendahl, the superintendent at the Marathon County juvenile detention facility, who has served as interim administrator since the April 17 resignation of former administrator Bob Dickman. Mergandahl will continue in his role as interim administrator until La Du-Ives assumes her new position.

“Paul set the groundwork for these changes to be made,” Billeb said.

La Du-Ives was interviewed by a group of six people who reviewed each applicant’s educational background, skills and history. Mount View Care Center Administrator Lori Koeppel, Marathon County Deputy Administrator Deb Hager, jail inspector Denise Ellis and Marathon County Board member Matt Hildebrandt assisted Billeb and Parks in choosing their top candidate.

The brutal assault that sparked the controversy surrounding jail procedures left officer Julie Christensen, 36, critically injured. She last was reported in the intensive care unit at Aspirus Wausau Hospital in April, and her family has requested no further updates be given about her condition. Officer Denney Woodward also was injured in the attack.

Fredrick Morris, 20, of Wausau has been charged in connection with the incident.

Koeppel, along with Rothschild Police Chief Bill Schremp, Intercity State Bank President Randy Balk, LandArt owner Paul Jones and Daily Herald Media General Manager Michael Beck all serve on the panel. Members plan to meet with Billeb, Parks and Du-Ives for a progress review in December.

Nicolet College’s EMTs, firefighters excel on certification

From wxpr.org: “Nicolet College’s EMT’s, Firefighters at High Percentage” — Nicolet College is turning out a new batch of EMTs and state certified firefighters. 25 out of 26 students passed the most recent national certification for Emergency Management Technicians. 17 out of 18 passed the state’s practical firefighting exam. Director of public safety and campus security Jason Goeldner says a new curriculum helped bring in the high passing rates.

“We’ve incorporated an online platform, which is either called a blending or a hybrid learning style. And even though most of the learning takes place in the classroom, through lecture or hands on, we are able to stream online supporting materials – videos, exams, practical sessions in which the students can also learn outside of the classroom.”

Goeldner says high quality instructors are also to thank for the good scores. He says most students will use their certifications to volunteer.

“Many people in the Nicolet district are doing this on a part-time basis to support their communities. There are a small portion that do it full time, mostly on the medical side of it.”

The number of training hours required for EMTs at Nicolet went up significantly this year. Goeldner says he hopes to improve the passing rate even further in the future.

 

Trailer will bring Nicolet College to area communities

From StarJournalNow.com: “Trailer will bring Nicolet College to area communities” —  The Nicolet Area Technical College district covers more than 4,000 square miles so for those living in the district it may not be easy to get to the main campus located just outside of Rhinelander for certain services.

The college has moved to remedy this with a new trailer that will be taken around to area communities to bring the school to prospective students.

“We can really do anything in the trailer that we can do in our office,” Kenneth Urban, Nicolet vice president of teaching, learning and student success, said. “The only thing we can’t do is testing. But financial aid, registration, we can do that in this trailer.”

Urban was one of the leading figures in trying to find a way the college could reach all corners of the district.

“Our district is 80 percent the size of Connecticut so we have a big area to cover,” Urban said. “It is not easy for people to sometimes get the services they need by coming to the main campus.”

The idea to bring those services to the district via trailer was the logical next step so the college began looking for a suitable vehicle.

Fortunately, they did not have to look far.

“Luckily the Wisconsin Technical College System Foundation is the organization that handles federal property in Wisconsin,” Urban said. “They had a FEMA trailer sitting in their lot in Waunakee.”

The trailer, Urban said, was just a typical camping trailer so the college needed to put work into it to make it a mobile extension of the college.

Again, the school did not have far to go to find qualified help.

“We have some very talented students and staff at this school,” Urban said.

Students and staff went to work on gutting the trailer and putting in the equipment and finishes needed to make the trailer function like the home office.

They removed the bathroom and made that they technology hub and electrical hub that feeds the two computer work stations in the area. They turned a couch into a work surface and installed an oak table with the college’s oak leaf logo.

On the outside, of the trailer, the students modified the main side window and inside built a storage case that houses a flat panel television, one of two in the unit.

“The idea is that you would pull up to where you are going to set up, you put the awing down and set up a table in front and have the television playing behind you with information,” Urban said. “We can customize the message to whatever we are doing that day. If we are there for financial aid sign up, we can have a video about financial aid playing. Or if it is a general visit, we can have a video of information about the school playing.”

Urban said the idea is to have at least two school representatives with the trailer when it goes to events in communities to help people with their needs. But he adds the college is still experimenting on how it best works in the real world.

“It has been out on one official event and that was Rediculous Dae in Rhinelander,” he said. “People really liked it. We learned thought that we need paper weights for the papers on the table outside. But that is where we are at right now, we are experimenting to see what we need and how the trailer works best.”

The trailer will be used for two more events this year though those dates have not been finalized but Urban said he is excited to get the unit out in the public.

“We want to take it where the people that will use the college the most will be,” he said. “We will stay away from tourist events, but you will see this trailer at high school football games where a couple of schools in our district are playing each other or other events where people that use the college will be.”

Middle school students get taste of college

From wfjw.com: “Nicolet’s Summer College Camp gives kids a taste of college” — Rhinelander – Going to college in summer may sound boring, but Nicolet’s Summer College Camp proves class can be a lot of fun.

The College Camp ran Monday through today. The camp was for 6th and 8th graders around the Northwoods and cost $75.

“The overall goal is really to have students not only start to think about what they might want to be when they grow up, so to speak, but also to get a feel of what a college campus feels like and actually walk on it, spend some time there,” says Teri Phalin, College Camp Organizer. Each of the 60 students picked two, 90-minute classes to rotate through during the afternoon. The classes specialized in welding, engineering, cartooning, sports medicine, and cooking – just to name a few.

“I’ve always been interested in theater. I’ve always wanted to be an actress when I grow up. And this just helps me with improv. I always thought improv was going to be kind of hard so this has kind of reassured me that it’s not as hard as I thought it would have been,” said Livi Roberts, Theater Class – 8th Grader.

Many students said they wished the camp ran longer because it was so much fun. Some already have asked to sign-up for next year.

Industrial manufacturing skills training info session

From starjournalnow.com: “Industrial manufacturing skills training info session Aug. 15 at Nicolet College” — With high local demand for workers with solid industrial manufacturing skills, Nicolet College will be holding an information session Thursday, Aug. 15, for anyone interested in learning about the skills and training necessary to enter the field.

The Industrial Mechanical Information Event will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. in the college’s Manufacturing Lab in Art Tech Center 108 on the Nicolet Campus.

Anyone interested can drop in any time that is convenient for them to tour the lab and meet with instructors.

At 5:30 p.m., area manufacturing employers will take part in a panel discussion to talk about the specific skills they need in employees, how people can get these skills, and how an individual can go about applying for a job at the various manufacturing facilities.

Grants to cover all tuition costs are available to qualifying individuals. Nicolet staff will be on hand to help people fill out the grant applications as well as fill out the application for admission to Nicolet College.

Nicolet staff will also be on hand to give tips on how to write a good resume as well as what it takes to perform well in a job interview.

Nicolet offers a manufacturing skills training program that starts with students earning the short-term Industrial Maintenance Fundamentals certificate. Credits earned can then be applied to the one-year Industrial Electronics Maintenance technical diploma which then ladders into the two-year Industrial Mechanical Technician associate degree.

Wages in the Northwoods range from $12 to $24 an hour, depending on experience.

For more information about industrial manufacturing training at Nicolet, visit nicoletcollege.edu or call the college at 715-365-4451, 800-544-3039, ext. 4451; TDD 715-365-4448.

Nicolet offers new evening hybrid classes

From wjfw.com: “Nicolet offers new evening hybrid classes” — Rhinelander – Furthering your education might seem impossible to add to your already busy life. Nicolet College is trying to make it easier for adults to make it possible. The college now offers evening courses that are a combination of classroom and online classes.

“They get both the benefits of online learning as well as some face to face contact with their instructor,” says Rose Prunty, Dean of University Transfer Liberal Arts.

The classes meet one night a week and the rest is online. These hybrid courses are designed to make education an option for busy adults. “This is really to meet the needs of community members who maybe work during the day, who have all sorts of commitments during the day. So this flexibility allows students to adapt a schedule that works for them,” said Prunty.

There are more than 50 hybrid courses being offered this fall. Classes range from business, criminal justice, and culinary studies.

“I think it’s a way of getting a start. Taking one course and seeing what college is like,” says Prunty.

Class begins August 26th. Registration is open now through the start of classes. The courses will also be offered at the Lakeland Campus.

UWP, SWTC, Nicolet College reach transfer agreement

From swnews4.com: “UWP, SWTC, Nicolet College Reach Transfer Agreement”  — UW–Platteville, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College and Nicolet College in Rhinelander have formed a partnership to award an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree, otherwise known as a University Transfer Liberal Arts degree.

UW–Platteville Chancellor Dennis J. Shields, Southwest Tech President Duane M. Ford and Nicolet College President Elizabeth Burmaster will sign the agreement in Room 2007 in UW–Platteville’s Ullsvik Hall today at 11 a.m.

Students earning the University Transfer Liberal Arts Degree at Nicolet College will be eligible to have all credits transfer and meet the UW–Platteville general education requirements, with the exception of ethnic and gender studies. Students at Southwest Tech will complete a year of coursework through the Fennimore campus and a subsequent year through Nicolet College.

After the completion of the “1+1” program, students are awarded the Transfer Liberal Arts Associate degree.  Students who maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average in the program will be guaranteed admission to UW–Platteville.

The goal of the program is to retain qualified southwest Wisconsin candidates who leave the technical college district for other, approved transfer opportunities. It is believed the agreement could serve up to 125 students per year who leave to study at other two-year institutions and then return to the area.

With current enrollment of more than 8,600 students, UW–Platteville continues to be the fastest-growing public university in Wisconsin. Southwest Tech’s main campus has more than 1,600 full-time equivalent students and serves approximately 12,000 southwest Wisconsin residents each year.

Nicolet College offers more than 70 different associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships as well as a University Transfer Liberal Arts Program, where students earn credits towards a bachelor’s degree before transferring to a four-year college or university.

Nicolet College prepares students for law enforcement careers

From starjournalnow.com: “Nicolet College Recruit Academy students train for law enforcement careers” — Nineteen students are currently working their way through the Nicolet College Law Enforcement Recruit Academy, certifying each to work in law enforcement agencies in the state of Wisconsin.

Students are learning and practicing arrest and handcuffing techniques.
The 13-week, 520-hour program is run in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Justice. Instruction includes lectures and hands-on training that covers policing in America, tactical skills, patrol procedures, investigations and emergency medical response for law enforcement.

Specialized skills such as emergency vehicle operation, firearms, professional communications, and defense tactics are also taught.

The recruits will graduate in late August.

For more information about Nicolet’s criminal justice associate degree program, visit nicoletcollege.edu or call at (715) 365-4451, (800) 544-3039, ext. 4451; or TDD (715) 365-4448.

Nicolet teams with Oldenburg to improve welding

From wjjq.com: “Nicolet teams with Oldenburg to improve welding” — Nicolet College is teaming with an area heavy equipment manufacturer to improve both student and worker skills training.

The technical college has recently expanded its welding program and has hired some of the top welders from Oldenburg Group in Rhinelander to teach additional class sections on a part-time basis.

Meanwhile, to advance the skills of workers at Oldenburg, a Nicolet instructor travels there to teach advanced blueprint reading.

Brigitte Parsons, dean of Trade and Industry at Nicolet noted the benefits of hiring instructors with private industry experience saying, “Each one brings their own unique set of skills to the classroom…(exposing students) to a wide range of talents which will make them that much more well-rounded when they enter the workforce.”

Oldenburg Lake Shore plant manager Scott Sedlacek says the arrangement advances the skill set of their current workers and potential future employees.

Milwaukee-based Oldenburg recently was awarded a $40 million contract from the U.S. Navy to build a variety of major components for Navy ships. They have 11 facilities in North America and other countries.

Nicolet has started an accelerated Welding program that gives students the opportunity to complete the traditional one-year diploma program in as little as seven months.

 

Grant helps Nicolet College manufacturing program

From wjfw.com: “Grant helps Nicolet College manufacturing” — Rhinelander – Rhinelander – Paying for college can be hard.

New grants can help Northwoods manufacturing students get a head start.

Nicolet College got together with five employers to offer assistance grants.

Wausau Paper, P-C-A, Foster and Smith, Hypro and Printpack want workers.

The companies endorsed the Industrial Mechanical Technician Program as a way for students to get a foot in the door. “It’s a great career path. It can be rewarding,” said Trade and Industry Dean, Brigitte Parsons

“It can allow someone to stay in Northern Wisconsin, stay close to family to resources they grew up around. It’s pretty exciting.”

The average starting wages in manufacturing here range from 14 dollars to 24 dollars an hour.

Parsons has high hopes for the manufacturing industry.

“Regionally employers have identified a need for individuals with maintenance repair type of skills to work in manufacturing sector,” Parson said.

“So we can expect to see many jobs in the very near future with our grant partners.”

Fall semester classes will start August 26th.

 

Nicolet College has unique relationship with Choraliers

From starjournalnow.com: “Boomers: Friendship and camaraderie with the Nicolet Choraliers” — By Sue Schneider – The sounds of Motown could be heard wafting out of the Methodist Church on Tuesday evenings the past few months. If anyone had peeked into the choir room, they would have found the Nicolet Choraliers rehearsing for their annual spring concert.

They would have seen a room full of happy, hardworking friends smiling, laughing, cheering and jeering, helping each other work through a program of bright, lively songs.

Directing the group is Bonnie Dawson, and alongside is Bea Kerner providing accompaniment at the piano. Both women have been leading the Choraliers for 25 years and couldn’t be more pleased with the job.

“We work well together,” says Bonnie. “We have signals–a glance or a motion–that we understand.”

Bea, an experienced accompanist who plays with many groups in the area, echoes the sentiment with a grin. “We have a saying: ‘Bonnie’s the boss, everyone knows, but what Bea plays goes.’”
It seems a perfect pairing. “Bea can look at a piece and say, ‘No, that won’t work or you may have to cut this part,’” says Bonnie.

“We work together selecting a theme for a concert. Sometimes we just get a bee in our bonnet and go for an idea; sometimes the girls suggest something.”
This spring’s theme of Motown hits has the group rockin’ and swayin’ with shouts, claps, hoots and animal noises, wearing costumes, waving streamers and sporting “bling.”

“We have a lot of fun,” says Bonnie. “But we also work hard. Most of the singers read music, but they also help out anyone who doesn’t, recording parts and offering them as a way to learn. They are so dedicated to the music and each other.”

The Nicolet Choraliers was formed around 1975, according to Bonnie. “It was Rose Nelson, Gerrie Martini and Jan Miller who first approached Nicolet College with the idea of sponsoring a women’s choir,” she says. “I moved here in ’77 from Chicago, and after a while I thought, I’ve got to do something. I joined up and sang second soprano.”

Through the mid-‘80s, the group was led by Carla Strong and Mary Petersen, but ended up in need of new leadership in 1988. Bonnie stepped forward. At the same time, Bea became available.

“I was playing volleyball on Tuesday nights,” she says, “but then they tore down the Labor Temple where we played, so I was free.”

Nicolet College is the only institution of its kind in the state that supports a music program such as this, according to Bea. She also plays for the Nicolet Male Chorus, the Choraliers’ counterpart. Besides hiring Bea and Bonnie, the college helps out in other ways. “They supply some of our music,” says Bonnie. “They help out with advertising, printing tickets and programs, things like that.”

With a complement of 25 to 35 singers, the Choraliers enjoy a very dedicated membership. “I’d say 98 percent of our members have been with us for many years,” says Bonnie. “What our singers get out of the group is satisfaction, camaraderie and a sense of self-worth. It’s a wonderful group; we’re really like a family.”

Bea points out the fact that members help each other. “There isn’t competition, but cooperation. This a great support group, and we all get along very well.”
Watching a rehearsal, anyone can see the form that support takes. While applauding solo or small group performances, they’re not afraid to offer constructive criticism.

“You can often see them helping each other,” says Bonnie, “discussing problems and offering solutions.

Some of them make CDs, some people make costumes–everybody does something. With everyone helping, it’s not just the two of us.”

The Choraliers are taking the summer off, so the singing will begin again in mid-September. “Everyone is welcome to join us,” said Bonnie. “We’re looking for all voicings. We practice on Tuesdays through mid- May when we have our annual spring concert.”

For more information, call Bonnie at (715) 362-2485.

 

Nicolet College responds to need for more welders

From wjfw.com: “Prepare for an increased demand in welding and fabricating jobs” — Looking for a new career? There’s one job in huge demand in Northern Wisconsin: Welding. To help fill those jobs Nicolet college is working with the Oldenburg Group and expanding their welding program.

Nicolet College’s Dean of Trade and Industry Brigitte Parsons says Wisconsin manufacturers are highly competitive in the world market. They’re getting more contracts, and need more workers.

“We’re seeing continued growth in this industry sector and an increased number of jobs in welding and fabricating and machine tooling,” said Parsons. Oldenburg Group, specifically, will be looking for more welders and fabricators to keep up with demand. “They just got a contract but they haven’t begun employing people yet. So right now is a good time to start thinking about if that’s a job that you might be interested in getting. Now’s a good time to get the skills,” says Parsons.

Nicolet College in Rhinelander offers a 9-month program for welding. They work closely with local leaders in industry like Oldenburg Group, so they’re teaching exactly what employers want you to know. Some of Oldenburg’s employees even teach part-time at Nicolet.

Nicolet College holds career expo for seventh graders

From wjfw.com: “Nicolet College holds career expo for seventh graders” — Rhinelander – You may not like hunting for jobs. And searching for a career is just as hard, but Nicolet College made the process fun for seventh graders today.

Nicolet College held their first Career Expo at the Rhinelander Ice Arena. About 700 seventh graders wandered through the tables.

“It is so important because I think there are so many great professions in our area that people just don’t know about. And especially at that seventh grade age, they’re just learning about careers and really starting to investigate maybe what direction they want to go,” says Teri Phalin, Nicolet Career Coach. The Expo showed off a wide range of careers from around the Northwoods. There were 42 careers showcased, including photographers, lawyers, EMT’s and many more.

“We have Ponsse who have a really great simulated logging machine. We have Dream Flight. We have PT offices. We have an exercise instructor,” said Teri Phalin.

Even Newswatch12 came out for some of the fun. But it was the students who enjoyed it the most.

“Students are loving this! Every student, I just said, has been walking past me with a huge smile on their face. They’re getting some really great information but they’re having fun while they’re doing it as well.”

Nicolet College Career Coach Teri Phalin said the Expo was a success and hopes to do it again next year.

More Northwoods students earn Nicolet College credits while in high school

From starjournalnow.com: “More Northwoods students earn Nicolet College credits while in high school” — Northwoods high school students are increasingly taking advantage of the chance to earn college credits while still in high school through Nicolet College.

The fastest-growing and increasingly popular option is through Nicolet’s transcripted credit classes, which has seen enrollment jump 75 percent in the past four years. Currently, 461 area high school juniors and seniors are on track to earn college credits in the 2012-13 academic year. The program started between Nicolet and Rhinelander and Elcho high schools in 2009 with 264 students.

“This is a fantastic way for high school students to get a jump start on their college education,” said Nicolet College President Elizabeth Burmaster. “We’re very excited with the success of the program and expect it to grow in the future as more Northwoods high school students take advantage of this valuable opportunity. By taking transcripted credit classes, students can shorten the amount of time they are in college. This allows them to enter the workforce sooner and also typically save money on what they pay for a college education.”

Credits earned count toward both their high school diploma and college degree. These college-level courses are taught right in the high schools by instructors who meet specific certification requirements, said Teri Phalin, PK-16 coordinator and Career Coach at Nicolet. Currently, Nicolet offers transcripted credit classes in business, accounting, welding, automotive technology, and medical assistant, and recently added classes in the University Transfer program, she explained.
Statewide, more than 21,000 high school students take dual credit classes through the 16 colleges in the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS).

To celebrate this success, Gov. Scott Walker declared Tuesday, April 30, as Dual Credit Day in Wisconsin. WTCS President Morna Foy and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Evers commemorated the day at a special event at Lomira High School, the site of the first dual credit career prep program.

“These partnerships not only ensure that the students know what to expect in college,” Foy said, “but the college credits they earn can also result in cost savings and an accelerated career path.”

With an estimated 65 percent of available jobs over the next 10 years requiring skills provided by technical education, the state’s economy depends on students being college- and career-ready upon high school graduation.

“We need every child to graduate from high school prepared for success in college or career,” said Evers. “Dual credit programs allow kids to earn college credit at their high schools with no cost to their families, all while gaining valuable skills that serve local communities and businesses well.”

High School Students Take Advantage of Tech College Credits

From wjjq.com: ” High School Students Take Advantage of Tech School Credits” — High School Students here in the Northwoods are increasingly getting jump starts on their college careers.

According to Nicolet College, the fastest growing and popular option is through their transcripted credit classes.

The program has seen enrollment jump 75 percent in the past four years. Currently, 461 area high school juniors and seniors are on track to earn college credits this academic year. The program started in 2009 between Nicolet and Rhinelander and Elcho high schools.

The credits earned count towards both a high school diploma and a college degree. The college-level courses are taught in the participating high schools, and range from business and accounting to welding and automotive technology.

In fact to celebrate this growing trend in the entire state, Governor Scott Walker recently named April 30 Dual Credit Day.

Nicolet College President Elizabeth Burmaster summed it up by saying, “This is a fantastic way for high school students to get a jump start on their college education.” She expects the program to grow in the future as more students take advantage of the opportunity.

Statewide, more than 21,000 high school students take Dual Credit classes through the 16 colleges in the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS).

Tours increase tech college program awareness

From superiortelegram.com: “Tours increase tech college program awareness”  — Registration is open for participation in a statewide collaborative that allows K-12 educators to earn graduate credits for increasing their awareness of Wisconsin Technical College System programs and services during the week of June 17-21.

Teachers, counselors and administrators participating in the week-long tours visit a different technical college each day for hands-on learning about the programs and services available to students and career options available to graduates. Tour participants complete an action plan for disseminating what they’ve learned, and earn three graduate credits from Marian University in Fond du Lac, Wis.

“We are pleased to participate with the Tours of Excellence program,” said WITC President Bob Meyer. “There are some incredible career opportunities available through WITC and across the Wisconsin Technical College System that are also extremely affordable.”

Tours are planned regionally to allow for broad participation in the north, central and southern part of the state. The north section includes visits to WITC-Ashland, Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire, Northcentral Technical College in Wausau Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids and Nicolet Area Technical College in Rhinelander. Space is limited to 30 individuals per section.

“This event is a great way to network with K-12 educators from throughout the state,” said Dan Miller.

For information or online registration, go to http://www.fvtc.edu/wtcstour.

Nicolet outreach specialist encourages women in business

From starjournalnow.com: “First Person: Northwoods Women in Business organization” — With the recent expansion and addition of companies and manufacturing firms in the Northwoods, the potential for entrepreneurial success continues to rise in the area. Many organizations and groups have been founded to implement strong business skills and effective marketing strategies to help local companies grow. We recently spoke with Nicolet College’s Business Development and Outreach specialist and the founder of Northwoods Women in Business, Michelle Madl-Soehren, about the goals of NWIB.

Star Journal: What is the primary focus of the Northwoods Women in Business organization?

Michelle Madl-Soehren: The organization was founded in July of 2010 primarily to involve women in the Northwoods area who are active businesswomen in the community. It’s not just a group for entrepreneurs, but really an organization for women, by women and includes all women who are in business in some way, shape or form.

SJ: What are some of the topics and issues that the organization focuses on?

MM: Because our organization has members with so many different backgrounds in terms of business and location, we cover a variety of topics that represent the interests of the group. Some of the topics we emphasize are how to balance a home and work life, ways to enhance business through social media and networking, public speaking techniques, methods of taking a business to the next level, building a business on a budget and successful strategies to reduce stress in a working environment. Along with these topics, we host guest speakers and organize local events to highlight the potential that small businesses have in this area.

SJ: What is your outlook for the organization in terms of coming months and years?

MM: We’re looking to expand our group and would love to see more women join the organization. With a hopeful expansion of the organization, we’re hoping to create and support a website for NWIB in the future, but since our group doesn’t require a membership fee, we’re utilizing social media sites more to spread information so we can keep costs down. One of our goals as an organization is to plan a Northwoods Women in Business conference for 2014. I attend the Women in Business conference in Eau Claire each year and would love to see an event similar in the area.

SJ: How can women in the area get involved in Northwoods Women in Business?

MM: We hold a meeting every last Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Northwoods Center of Nicolet Technical College. We just had our first meeting since last fall and we had women from seven surrounding cities attend. One of the topics we covered at our last meeting was the revival of monthly newsletters which showcases individual women in business within the area, so members can look forward to those again. Anyone interested in attending a meeting may email nwib2010@gmail.com to be included in our mailing list, or visit our Facebook page.

Nicolet College offers international study opportunities

From starjournalnow.com: “Nicolet College international study opportunities” — The art of London and the Spanish language and culture of Guatemala will be the focus of two international study opportunities offered by Nicolet College.

During the London Study Tour, Jan. 2 to Jan. 13, 2014, students will visit many of the finest museums and historic sites in and around one of the world’s most culturally-rich cities. The study tour class includes three university transfer liberal arts credits. The cost is $2,718 and includes airfare from Rhinelander, ground travel in London, lodging, breakfasts, entrance to museums and Les Miserables, visits to Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral, and travel insurance.

Museum visits will include the British Museum, National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, Tate Britain, Tate Modern Gallery, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The tour will be led by Nicolet art instructor Bob Kanyusik, who has taught art at Nicolet for 30 years and led the London Study Tour for 15 years.

For more information, contact Teresa Rose at (715) 365-4625, (800) 544-3039, ext. 4625; TDD (715) 365-4558; TDD (715) 365-4448; or by email at trose@nicoletcollege.edu.

The Spanish Study Tour to Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, will run Dec. 27, 2013, to Jan. 12, 2014. Participants will immerse themselves in Guatemalan culture and the Spanish language by living with local host families and attending Spanish language classes in the morning, and cultural events and service learning activities in the afternoon.

The four-credit, university transfer language classes cover a broad range of Spanish-speaking proficiency, ranging from no previous experience with the language to those who are approaching conversational fluency. A three-credit service learning class is also available for those who are fluent in Spanish. Students who enroll in service learning will volunteer with the Chico Mendes Reforestation Project, which was initiated in 1998 to contribute to the reforestation of the largely deforested Guatemalan Western Highland Mountains. Activities may include collecting and planting seeds, mixing soil, tilling the ground or other reforestation-related efforts.

The cost for the language class option is $2,690.60. The service learning option is $2,518.95. This includes airfare from Wausau, ground transportation while in Guatemala, accommodations with a Guatemalan family that include a private bedroom, meals, event fees, guided travel excursions, Internet access and travel insurance.

For more information, contact Nicolet Spanish instructor Ocie Kilgus at (715) 365-4540, (800) 544-3039, ext. 4540; TDD (715) 365-4558 or 711 (relay); or by email at okilgus@nicoletcollege.edu.

Information sessions will also be held on the following dates:
• Guatemala: Tuesday, April 9, 11:30 a.m. to noon, University Transfer Center, third floor.
• London: Tuesday, April 2, noon to 12:30 p.m., and 4 to 4:30 p.m., Tamarack Center 213.
• London: Wednesday, April 3, noon to 12:30 p.m., and 4 to 4:30 p.m., Tamarack Center 213.

Fall semester 2013 financial aid is available for both classes for students who qualify.

To register for either the Guatemala or London study tour, contact Teresa Rose at (715) 365-4625, 1-800-544-3039, ext. 4625; TDD (715) 365-4558 or 711 (relay); or by email at trose@nicoletcollege.edu.

Nicolet students excel at state business competition

From nicoletcollege.edu: “Nicolet students excel at state business competition” — Eight Nicolet College students earned high honors at a recent statewide Business Professionals of America (BPA) competition that had them testing their skills in a wide variety of disciplines from office applications to computer network and web design.                  

Students earning honors include first row, left to right, Vicky Hunter, Robert Klitzka, Kyle Mickelson; back row, Jordan Slominski, Micah Roberts, and David Larson. Other students earning honors but not pictured include Phyllis Mickelson, and Dylan Gallus. All students are from Rhinelander.

The 2013 competition was held at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay.

Students were tested on many levels of knowledge and skills in areas such as word processing, accounting, legal and medical office procedures, interviewing and speaking, insurance concepts, human resources, computer networks, web design and many others. Besides the competitions, the three-day event also included electing new officers, leadership seminars, and some time for fun and networking with students from other schools.

Business Professionals of America is the leading Career Technical Student Organization for those pursuing careers in business management, office administration, information technology and other related career fields. BPA has more than 51,000 members nationwide. Their mission is to contribute to the preparation of a world-class workforce through the advancement of leadership, citizenship, academic, and technological skills.

 

Nicolet College offers study programs in London, Guatemala

From starjournalnow.com: “Nicolet College international study in London and Guatemala” — The art of London and the Spanish language and culture of Guatemala will be the focus of two international study opportunities Nicolet College is offering in January.

During the London Study Tour Jan. 2 to Jan. 13, students will visit many of the finest museums and historic sites in and around one of the world’s most culturally-rich cities. The study tour class includes three University Transfer art credits. The cost is $2,562.75 and includes tuition, airfare from Rhinelander, ground travel, lodging, breakfasts, entrance to museums and Les Miserables, visits to Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral, and travel insurance.

Museum visits will include the British Museum, National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, Tate Britain, Tate Modern Gallery, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The tour will be led by Nicolet art instructor Bob Kanyusik, who has taught art at Nicolet for 30 years and led the London Study Tour for 14 years.

The Spanish Study Tour to Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, will run Dec. 28 to Jan. 13. Participants will immerse themselves in Guatemalan culture and the Spanish language by living with local host families and attending Spanish language classes in the morning, and cultural events and service learning activities in the afternoon.

The four-credit, University Transfer language classes cover a broad range of Spanish-speaking proficiency, ranging from no previous experience with the language to those who are approaching conversational fluency. A three-credit service learning class is also available for those who are fluent in Spanish. Possible service learning projects include art and cultural outreach, education, eco-tourism, public health, construction and human rights.

Cost for the language class option is $2,402. The service learning class cost is $2,237.75. This includes tuition, airfare from Wausau, ground transportation, accommodations with a Guatemalan family that include a private bedroom, meals, event fees, guided travel excursions, Internet access and travel insurance.

For more information, contact Nicolet Spanish instructor Ocie Kilgus at (715) 365-4540, (800) 544-3039, ext. 4540; TDD (715) 365-4558 or 711 (relay); or by email at okilgus@nicoletcollege.edu.

Financial aid is available for both classes for students who qualify.

To register for either the Guatemala or London study tour, or for more information, contact Teresa Rose at (715) 365-4625, (800) 544-3039, ext. 4625; TDD (715) 365-4558 or 711 (relay); or by email at trose@nicoletcollege.edu.

Sustainability part of the curriculum at Nicolet

From rhinelanderdailynews.com: “Sustainability part of the curriculum at Nicolet” — Sustainability is a common theme at Nicolet Area Technical College. Tuesday’s “dumpster diving” event to promote recycling awareness is just one small example of the type of initiatives the college is taking on.

A few other examples include the culinary arts students maintaining a compost as part of their cooking practices and the college’s participation in the Lake Julia stewardship project, a nearly decade-long study of the lake that included approximately $50,000 in Department of Natural Resources grant funding. What was discovered was a fairly healthy lake, but the project produced an aquatic plant management plan that can be used to continue to monitor and maintain the health of the lake.

The college has also pursued LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certifications for recent building renovation projects. The certification assesses how “green” a building is, looking at areas such as energy efficiency, water conservation and the use of sustainable materials. The Birchwood Center addition and remodeling received a LEED Gold certification.

The Northwoods Center addition and remodeling completed in 2011 received a LEED Silver certification. Nicolet College officials are now pursuing an official LEED certification for the University Transfer Center renovation completed this past summer.

One of the most recent sustainability initiatives at Nicolet is the college’s Green Scholar program, which is making its debut this fall. Leanne Vigue Miranda had some literature available on the new program during Tuesday’s “dumpster diving” event. Miranda coordinates the college’s sustainability professional learning community. There are several different professional learning communities (PLC), all comprised of Nicolet staffers, that direct their focus on different areas.

“Our PLC is always trying to come up with ways to raise awareness,” Miranda said of the area of sustainability.

The Green Scholar program is something that has been in the works for about a year and a half, she said.

According to Miranda, the program’s purpose is twofold. To recognize the efforts of those people who already make sustainable practices part of their everyday lives and to hopefully encourage others to become more conscious of the carbon footprint they’re leaving behind and consider some lifestyle changes.

“Our PLC really wanted to find ways to get the Nicolet community excited about sustainability as well as recognize people for their efforts,” Miranda said.

The Green Scholar program is modeled after a similar program at Gateway Technical College in Racine. It is open to anyone willing to learn about sustainability and incorporate such aspects into their personal lives, Miranda said. To become a Green Scholar, a person must complete the EarthScore Booklet (found in the Nicolet College bookstore), complete a service learning project relevant to sustainability and complete 50 points worth of “green” action items, which include Nicolet coursework as well as other various personal activities. Miranda said the courses don’t necessarily have to be for credit. Non-credit classes, such as courses in the college’s Outdoor Adventure Series, also qualify toward the requirements of the Green Scholar recognition.

For more information about the program, contact Miranda at (715) 365-4586 or lmiranda@nicoletcollege.edu.