Hilary Barker

The Board meeting spanned two days and covered several critical areas. Key discussions included strengthening transfer pathways between the System and other higher education institutions, emphasizing clear, program-to-program agreements. System updates highlighted the integration of AI into education while stressing the need for real skills and human judgment, recent facility ribbon cuttings, and recognition of community partners. The System President also reported on the Department of Workforce Development's Biennial Report and provided an update on the Aspen Prize achievement, noting that nine WTCS colleges were invited to apply for the 2026 Aspen Prize. A discussion occurred regarding Wisconsin Act 35 concerning EMS course grants. The Board reviewed its employee engagement survey results, which showed high satisfaction scores across metrics like goal setting and mutual respect. The Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association provided an update on initiatives such as launching 'Trustee Tuesdays' and reviving the legislative committee. The WTCS Presidents' Association outlined goals focusing on student success, advocacy, and developing a strategy for Workforce Pell access. The Board reviewed the TCS 10 Special Circumstances Policy, ultimately delegating approval and management to System administration going forward. The Board also recognized Lactalis American Group with the Futuremaker Partner Award. Business on the second day included a presentation on Southwest Tech's transformational tutoring approach, approval of interim district board appointments, acceptance of the 2025-28 WTCS Facilities Plan, an update from the Higher Educational Aids Board (HEAB), and a review of the 2024 Fact Book and legislative items.

The Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Board meeting included discussions and updates on various topics. The Board President's report highlighted engagement with employers and the Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents' strategic plan. The System President shared updates on conferences, the Wanek Center for Innovation, and cost-saving measures due to potential federal funding loss. Legislative updates were provided, and a presentation on advancing oral health in Wisconsin was given. The Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association (DBA) updated the Board on reorganization efforts. Insights were shared from the Delivering on the Promise event, and the 2026-2030 Strategic Directions were approved. Project reviews were conducted for Moraine Park Technical College and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. Guidelines for State Workforce Advancement Training (WAT), Apprentice-Related Instruction, and Federal Perkins Grant were also discussed.

The agenda includes approval of the September 9-10, 2025 meeting minutes, reports from the Board President, System President, Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association, and WTCS Presidents' Association. It covers the TCS 10 special circumstances policy, the Futuremaker Partner Award presentation, and a discussion on embedding success in teaching and learning at Southwest Tech. Also listed is the consent agenda, the 2025-28 WTCS Facilities Plan, a Higher Educational Aids Board (HEAB) update, the 2024 Fact Book, and a legislative update.

The strategic plan for the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) focuses on delivering comprehensive education and training to empower students and employers. Key directions include expanding access and success for all students, advancing teaching and learning strategies, and delivering student support services. The plan also emphasizes collaboration through effective partnerships, industry-aligned curriculum, and stakeholder engagement. Additionally, it aims to inspire learners of all ages to pursue technical education and redefine the delivery of postsecondary education and training by aligning college efforts with community needs and leveraging IT infrastructure.

The Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Board meeting included discussions on various topics. These included updates from the System President, SkillsUSA National Results, Minority Student Retention Plan Statutory Requirement, and Election of Officers. The Board also discussed Teaching & Learning Innovation, Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association, WTCS Presidents' Association, and a consent agenda. Additionally, the meeting covered Northeast Wisconsin Technical College's project review, strategic directions development, state grant guidelines, and a legislative update.