WAUSAU, Wis. (October 13, 2026) — Northcentral Technical College (NTC) celebrated the launch of its Dental Therapy program at the NTC Community Dental Clinic, marking a new career opportunity for students and a step toward addressing oral health workforce needs in the region.

The program’s first cohort of students has begun training for a career designed to help expand access to dental care, particularly in rural communities.

“At NTC, we listen closely to what our communities need and work with partners to create opportunities for our students to meet those needs,” said Dr. Jeannie Worden, NTC president. “Dental Therapy is an example of that commitment. It creates a new career pathway for students while helping built the oral health workforce that communities across our region need.”

Wisconsin’s authorization of dental therapy made this new pathway possible. State funding helped NTC expand its dental clinic and labs to prepare students, and support from the Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation contributed to the expansion. 

NTC recognized the contributions of Senator Mary Felzkowski, Governor Tony Ever and the legislators who supported the legislation and investment. The College also thanked the Wisconsin Technical College System, the NTC District Board of Trustees, dental professionals, community partners, faculty and staff for helping establish the program.

Group of people in a lobby cut a long blue ribbon with oversized scissors for a ribbon‑cutting ceremony.
NTC President Dr. Jeannie Worden and Wisconsin State Senator Mary Felzkowski cut the ribbon to celebrate the launch of NTC’s Dental Therapy program.
Four professionally dressed women in an atrium during an autumn ceremony; one speaks at a podium.
Wisconsin State Senator Mary Felzkowski joins NTC leaders and community partners to celebrate the launch of NTC’s Dental Therapy program.
Five healthcare workers in navy scrubs standing side-by-side in a wood-paneled room with attentive expressions.
NTC dental therapy students join the celebration as the college marks the launch of its new program.