LA CROSSE, Wis., January 8, 2026 – A new statewide survey shows growing confidence in Wisconsin’s technical colleges, including Western Technical College, with two-thirds of the state’s residents holding a favorable opinion of the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS). The findings underscore the critical role these higher education institutions play in providing affordable, high-quality education that meets the needs of students and employers across the state.
Key statewide highlights include:
- 66% of Wisconsin residents have a favorable opinion of WTCS, up from 52% in 2022.
- 76% believe the state benefits from the education technical colleges provide, an increase from 71% in 2022.
- 78% agree that higher education is a significant investment, and students and families must consider long-term costs when choosing a college.
- 76% agree not all students benefit from a four-year college education, up from 71% in 2022.
- 64% see technical colleges as a strong option for students planning to transfer to a four-year public college or university, up from 60% in 2022.
At Western, these statewide perceptions are reflected locally through stable enrollment, strong workforce outcomes, and continued investment in facilities and programs aligned with regional needs. Ninety-four percent of Western graduates are employed within six months of graduation, with 70% working within Western’s district, reinforcing the college’s role as a key driver of the local workforce and economy.
Western is also making a significant investment in the future of workforce education through the Wanek Center of Innovation, a high-tech facility designed to expand training opportunities in advanced manufacturing and other high-demand fields while strengthening partnerships with regional employers.
“Western exists to serve the communities that depend on us,” said Roger Stanford, president of Western. “From preparing students for in-demand careers to supporting local employers and economic growth, our impact is felt throughout the region. This survey confirms what we see every day—technical colleges are essential to Wisconsin’s future.”
The survey highlights affordability, transfer opportunities, and strong recommendations from others as key drivers of WTCS’s positive reputation. Residents overwhelmingly associate technical colleges with real-world value, job outcomes, and affordability.
Western remains committed to expanding opportunity, responding to workforce needs, and delivering a strong return on investment for students, employers, and the communities it serves.
To learn more about Western Technical College, visit www.westerntc.edu.
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