Chippewa Valley Times

Leaders from Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) and the University of Wisconsin-Stout have issued a joint statement emphasizing the changing landscape of higher education. They argue that institutions must adapt to meet the needs of a modern workforce, moving away from traditional models toward more flexible and responsive systems.

According to Dr. Sunem Beaton-Garcia, President of CVTC, and Dr. Katherine Frank, Chancellor of UW-Stout in Menomonie, higher education is evolving into an ecosystem where credentials are stackable and learning is ongoing throughout life. The focus is shifting from credit hours to competencies gained and career opportunities available at various stages.

The two institutions highlight their role as launchpads for students seeking to enter the workforce or transition careers. They state that their mission goes beyond education, aiming to connect academic achievement directly with employment outcomes. “Whether a student is earning an industry certification, an associate degree, a bachelor's degree, or a graduate degree, the ultimate goals remain the same: to make the on and off ramps for students seamless as they navigate educational pathways, and to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills and experience to thrive in today’s—and tomorrow’s—economy,” according to their joint statement.

CVTC and UW-Stout emphasize their efforts in aligning programs with labor market demands across fields such as advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, healthcare, and clean energy technologies. They note their ability to respond quickly to changes in industry needs and technological advancements like artificial intelligence.

The statement also points out efforts to break down barriers between different types of credentials through transfer agreements and program alignment between the two schools. This allows students flexibility in building upon short-term credentials toward higher degrees while gaining work experience.

“As we look to the future, higher education must be reframed. Not as a one-size-fits-all model rooted in tradition, but as an agile, inclusive system that meets learners where they are and takes them where they want to go,” they said.

Drs. Beaton-Garcia and Frank assert that their institutions aim not only to keep pace with change but also drive it by making education transformational for individuals and communities alike.

“It’s time to reframe higher education. The future isn’t about competing models; it’s about complementary missions that support all learners, at every stage, and help them turn their education into a lifelong advantage,” they concluded.