Research participants included adults who reside in NTC’s District, which is an area that spans 5,900 square miles in 10 counties across north central Wisconsin. The study found that residents view NTC as a highly trusted, high-quality institution offering hands-on, career-ready education. According to respondents, many would encourage high school students, friends, and colleagues to choose NTC for career advancement, which gives the College strong favorability and recommendation ratings in the communities it serves.

Skills-Based Education Leads to Opportunity

Respondents overwhelmingly agreed that technical and career education leads directly to employment and benefits the state’s economy. Community members described NTC as a “smart, practical choice” for students seeking to gain skills that matter in today’s workforce.

Affordability and Value Remain Top Priorities

The study also found that affordability and reduced student debt are key factors for families considering higher education. NTC continues to deliver high-quality, accessible education that helps students graduate with less debt and greater opportunity.

“Providing affordable, real-world education is central to our mission,” said Dr. Jeannie Worden, President of NTC. “These results confirm that our community values the impact NTC makes in helping learners build successful futures without financial strain.”

Expanding Opportunity for All Learners

NTC serves learners at every stage of their educational and career journey, including recent high school graduates and adults seeking to upskill or change careers. The college offers career pathways, flexible learning options, and transfer opportunities through hands-on training and online programs designed to meet the needs of today’s learners.

Building Wisconsin’s Future Together

Half of local residents surveyed said their community is headed in the right direction — and many credited education and workforce development as driving forces behind that progress.

“NTC plays a vital role in strengthening families, businesses and communities,” said Dr. Worden. “By connecting education with opportunity, we’re helping build Wisconsin’s future.”

From affordable access and real-world training to strong community partnerships, NTC continues to make a lasting impact across the region — proving that skills meet opportunity at NTC.

Source: 2025 Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Perceptions Study, May–June 2025.