Mid-State Technical College
Mid-State Technical College Builds Wisconsin's Workforce Through Hands-On Career Training

Mid-State Technical College prepares students for high-demand careers through hands-on learning, employer partnerships and flexible career pathways that strengthen Wisconsin's workforce. By collaborating with employers, manufacturers, health care systems and community leaders, students gain hands-on experience while receiving academic, financial and career support that helps them succeed in college and beyond.

At Mid-State, academic programs are shaped by employer demand and informed by academic advisory committees comprising more than 370 employers and employees from 275 organizations. Community leaders help identify regional priorities and emerging opportunities. Extending its impact beyond degree programs, the college’s workforce and economic development division works directly with employers to deliver customized training, upskilling opportunities, apprenticeship support and technical certifications.

These partnerships help ensure students graduate with the skills employers need today while allowing the college to respond quickly to changing workforce demands. Mid-State’s Economic Impact Study shows it contributed $180 million in regional economic impact in FY 2023–24 and supported 2,585 jobs across the district.

“Mid-State’s story is about transformation, for students, communities and industries throughout central Wisconsin,” says Dr. Shelly Mondeik, president.

From Classroom to Career Readiness

Mid-State’s partnership-driven model drives its innovation strategy, embedding workforce readiness across disciplines including diesel technology, construction and skilled trades.

Developed through more than $23 million in public-private collaboration, its Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering Technology and Apprenticeship (AMETA) Center gives students hands-on experience with robotic welding systems, computerized numerical control fiber lasers and Industry 4.0 technologies. The facility’s development involved manufacturers, business leaders and community stakeholders committed to strengthening the future workforce pipeline.

Similarly, its Healthcare Simulation Center, designed in collaboration with healthcare partners, enables nursing and allied health students to gain hands-on experience through realistic patient-care scenarios supported by high-fidelity mannequins and hospital-grade equipment. The immersive environment helps students build clinical judgment, confidence and technical proficiency while refining communication skills, enabling a smoother entry into practice. Graduates enter Wisconsin's healthcare workforce with practical experience employers value from day one.

Academic instructors come directly from the industries they teach, connecting theory to real-world application, while alumni serve as guest speakers and mentors, providing insight into long-term career opportunities. Students leave Mid-State with practical experience solving problems, operating equipment, simulations and working collaboratively in team settings. Mid-State’s Economic Impact Study shows its alumni generated $141.4 million in added income for the regional economy in FY 2023–24 and supported approximately 1,779 jobs.

Removing Barriers, Expanding Opportunity

Guided by its I-CARE core values—student centeredness, integrity, commitment, accountability, respect and exceptional service—Mid-State takes a holistic approach to student success. From enrollment through graduation, students have access to advisors, mental health resources and career planning services designed to help them navigate challenges and achieve their goals.

For career changers, advisors help students identify transferable skills, connecting their goals to industry demand through flexible pathways that include certificates, technical diplomas and associate degrees. Mid-State awards academic credit for prior learning gained through education, military training and professional experience. It also supports adult learners with free GED and High School Equivalency Diploma programs, helping them advance their careers or workforce entry.

To help students balance education, work and family responsibilities, Mid-State offers flexible scheduling, online learning opportunities, transportation support and accessible faculty. Its partnership with the Wisconsin Automotive and Truck Education Association enables shuttle services for students.

Accessible education remains paired with high-quality outcomes. Mid-State’s Economic Impact Study estimates that students gain $6.20 in higher lifetime earnings for every dollar invested and realize an average annual return of 22.3 percent. The findings also show the college’s educational impact improves health outcomes, reduces reliance on public assistance and lowers justice system costs, reflecting an impact that extends beyond career preparation. Recognition as an Aspen Prize semifinalist further reflects the strength of its student-centered approach and strong academic outcomes.

As workforce needs evolve, Mid-State Technical College remains committed to preparing students for meaningful careers through hands-on education, employer partnerships and innovative learning opportunities that strengthen central Wisconsin.