Chippewa Valley Times

The director of the Bachelor of Science program in technology education at UW-Stout, Barb Bauer, was recently honored by the Wisconsin Technology Education Association with the 2024 Leadership Award for her dedication and active involvement in promoting the association's mission. Bauer expressed her gratitude, stating, "I was honored to receive this award, and it was a huge honor to be nominated for the Educator of the Year award."

At the WTEA annual conference in Wisconsin Dells, Bauer was recognized for her contributions. She shared her passion for educating future educators, highlighting the importance of practical application in teaching. Bauer, who also manages the Innovation and Creation Lab on campus, emphasized the university's commitment to preparing students for the teaching field, particularly in technology education.

Bauer praised UW-Stout's technology education program for its ability to equip students with practical skills early on, stating, “The tech ed program at UW-Stout really prepares our students to hit the ground running." She emphasized the program's focus on hands-on experience and the ever-evolving nature of technology education, encouraging a mindset of continuous learning among students.

The success of the program is evident in the high employment rates of its graduates, with recent reports showing a 100% employment rate. UW-Stout's School of Education offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as certificates and certifications, to further support the professional development of educators in the field.

Barb Bauer's recognition by the WTEA reflects her commitment to advancing technology education and nurturing the next generation of educators. Her dedication to the field and the success of UW-Stout's program underscore the importance of practical training and continuous learning in preparing students for rewarding careers in teaching.