Fox Valley Technical College Focus Magazine Spring 2009

focusFox Valley Technical College volume 2, issue 1 • spring 2009

your future

inside:inside:

A Healthy

FVTC’s Medical Assistantprogram is preparingNeng Yang for a careerin one of the country’shottest job fields.

> Multimedia-basedcustomized training

> Multimedia-basedcustomized training

> Hands-on learning:Engineering optionsabound

> Hands-on learning:Engineering optionsabound

> FVTC’s workerretraining earnsnational exposure

> FVTC’s workerretraining earnsnational exposure

OutlookOutlook

5

Focus is published bi-annuallyfor the communities of Fox Valley

Technical College.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR/MANAGER OFMEDIA RELATIONS

Chris Jossart

CUSTOM PUBLISHING SERVICESThe Coghlan Group

EDITORChris Mikko

ART DIRECTORAmy Bjellos

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSChuck Benda, Phil Bolsta,

Sara Gilbert, Karen Hansen,Meleah Maynard, Vicki Stavig

PHOTOGRAPHYGary Brilowski, Gary Gawinski,Dave Kaphingst, Patrick Kelly

DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE MARKETINGBarb Dreger

PRESIDENTDr. Susan A. May

Fox Valley Technical College1825 N. Bluemound Dr.

P.O. Box 2277Appleton, WI 54912-2277

1-800-735-3882TTY (hearing impaired) (920) 993-5106

[email protected] (e-mail inquiries)

Accredited by The Higher LearningCommission and a member of the NorthCentral Association, www.ncahlc.org.

FVTC offers more than 200 associatedegree, technical diploma and certificateprograms, and instruction related to

20 apprenticeship trades, in addition toproviding services to business and industry.Annually, the college serves about 50,000people throughout its five-county district.

Member of:

© 2009 Fox Valley Technical College.All rights reserved. Equal Opportunity

Employer/Educator.

Around FVTCA quick look at what’s new at FVTC.

Focus on Workplace TrainingFVTC has helped Appleton-based PierceManufacturing succeed in today’s competitivemarketplace through a mix of customized trainingoptions.

Focus on the EntrepreneurAn Appleton couple launches a dynamic new energybusiness with the help of FVTC’s E-Seed program.

Focus on AlumniQ&A with Hilbert native Tim Franz, Chief of theOshkosh Fire Department.

Focus on the FoundationFor four decades, FVTC and J. J. Keller & Associateshave worked together to help meet the region’sworkforce needs.

Focus on Student LifeOnce a volunteer project, FVTC’s student-run ITHelpdesk now provides an exceptional hands-onlearning experience. Also, FVTC’s Speaker Seriesbrings inspiring and entertaining speakers, andpowerful life lessons, to students and the community.

A Healthy OutlookThe need for medical assistants isgrowing, and Neng Yang is trainingin an FVTC program that’s keepingpace with the industry.

The Reinvention ofTheresa CrossWhen Theresa Cross discovered shewas about to become a single mom,she knew she needed to find a betterjob. She never dreamed that a classat FVTC would uncover her aptitudefor accounting, and change her lifeforever.

Controlling His DestinyWhen Eric Reindl discovered theComputer Control EngineeringTechnology program at FVTC, hefigured out his future career.

features2

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ON THE COVER:Medical Assistant program

student Neng Yang;photo by Patrick Kelly.

FVTC is preparing me for my career through real projectsand relevant experience. I have written a procedure manualfor my job, created a plan to increase productivity for mycurrent employer, and designed a baby announcement formy son. My goal is to work as a freelance writer in manyareas of business communications.

Welcome to the college. You’re making a great choice.

Nate WagnerFVTC Student, Technical Communications

welcome

contents

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Record Turnout at YouthEntrepreneur SummitStudents from 14 area high schools discovered awealth of resources from business owners, financialexperts, and small business training leaders duringthe 3rd-Annual Youth Entrepreneur Summit atFVTC’s Appleton campus on March 11.Sponsored by the Fox Valley Technical College

Venture Center, Community First Credit Union,Epiphany Law, and CESA 6, the Summit providednearly 360 students with a variety of hands-onworkshops. The workshops were designed tointroduce students to the business world ofagriculture, natural resources, informationtechnology, engineering, marketing, and healthsciences, among others.Students also explored the financial intricacies of

opening and managing a business. In addition,current business owners from retail, financial,restaurant, service, renewable energies, and othersectors shared their experiences with the studentsthroughout the day.

For more information, visitwww.venturecenterwi.biz.

Garden Walk Offers Chance to Revel in NatureCelebrate the rites of spring by joining FVTC Horticulture instructors Jim Beardand Roxanne Rusch, along with area plant vendors, during the 2nd-AnnualSeeds of Hope Garden Walk on Saturday, May 30, from 9 a.m. to noon at theAppleton campus.Take a self-guided tour of the college’s spacious grounds and view an array of

colorful foliage, attend a “Wake Up Your Garden” presentation with a questionand answer segment, register for door prizes, enjoy a continental breakfast,silent auction, and more. Tickets are $10 in advance and available at theCommunity First Credit Union branch at FVTC inside Entrance 10, or $15 atthe door. Proceeds will provide emergency assistance for FVTC students.

For more information, call 920-996-2983.

Electricity ProgramEnergizes Homes,FuturesFVTC’s Electricity program recentlyreceived a 2009 CommunityPartnership Award from Greater FoxCities Area Habitat for Humanityduring the organization’s springcelebration ceremony.Serving as a “live lab,” students

install the electrical portion of local Habitat homes. They gain real-life experienceand keep costs in check for Habitat, helping the non-profit organization provideaffordable housing for area families in need. Many students often volunteer theirtime after projects are completed as well.In December 2008, FVTC students also applied the finishing electrical

configurations to its 10th home for Greater Fox Cities Habitat for Humanity.Nearly 75 students during the past two years have provided wiring design andinstallation services for the organization.

For more information, visit www.fvtc.edu/electricity.

A Taste of Distinction forCulinary ArtsThe Culinary Arts and Hospitality department at FVTCearned “Exemplary Status” from the American Culinary

Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission(ACFEFAC) as a result of a recent voluntary accreditation process.

Less than 7% of the more than 350 accredited culinary arts programs in theUnited States and abroad are recognized by the ACFEFAC with this distinction.The American Culinary Federation is the largest professional organization of cooksand chefs in the world.FVTC’s Culinary Arts & Hospitality team at FVTC collectively brings more than

200 years of professional experience to the training environment, including fivecertified executive chefs and a certified executive pastry chef.

For more information, visit www.fvtc.edu/culinary.

Attend this year's Garden Walk on May 30.

2 www.fvtc.edu Fox Valley Technical College

Electricity students in front of their 10th homefor Greater Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity.

Jenniece VanDinter, Dinner Helpers, shares timewith high school students.

aroundfvtc

FVTC’s Dislocated WorkforceEfforts Gain NationalExposureRecent economicdownturns havegenerated a surge in retraining dislocated workers andcontributed toward an overall spike in enrollment. ForFVTC, meeting the needs of these workers has ushered anew level of responsiveness. The college’s impact on thisworkforce hasn’t gone without notice.

On Sunday, January 25, a New York Times front-pagearticle, “Bad Times Spur a Flight to Jobs Viewed as Safe,”depicted a few careers that are weathering the storm. Thestory noted how FVTC is helping dislocated workers retrainfor new opportunities. The piece also featured a photo ofstudents Lance Buss and Dan Geenen, a laid-off workerfrom an area mill, and FVTC Welding Instructor AdamLaabs.

As of March 2009, in a four-month time period thecollege has served more than 800 dislocated workers, and ispreparing to help this workforce further by employingadditional courses for summer.

For more information, visit www.fvtc.edu/lossofemployment.

A Consortium of AutomotiveTraining ExcellenceSeveral FVTC Automotive and Diesel instructors wererecently recognized for attaining 25 years of nationalAutomotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Thecertification exemplifies a high level of instructionalcommitment to automotive technology and industry trends.

The quarter-century ASE instructors from FVTC picturedbelow are (left to right): Jim Olson, Diesel; Bill Heesaker,Automotive; Dave Lessmiller, Automotive; andDan Poeschel, Diesel.

For more information, visit www.fvtc.edu/transportation.

Visit www.fvtc.edu/e-news fore-news updates from

Fox Valley Technical College!

News Briefs

focus spring 2009 3

• Alyce Dumke was named executivedirector of the FVTC Foundation, Inc.and Community Relations. She brings25 years of administration andcommunity relations experience to theposition. Most recently, she served aschief operating officer for McCartyLaw LLP, and was instrumental inhelping develop key initiatives invarious leadership roles at ThriventFinancial for Lutherans.

• The FAB LAB, an innovation laboratory on the Appleton campus thatprovides inventors and students the tools to rapidly translate an ideainto reality through product prototype or personal fabrication,received a $670,000 collaboration grant from the NationalScience Foundation. The primary goal of the grant is to enhanceSTEM (science, technology, engineering, math) abilities inundergraduate and high school students. The college received thegrant in partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Stout andCentury Community and Technical College in White Bear Lake, Minn.

• The National Association ofCampus Activities awardedStudent Life director Vicky Barkewith the 2009 Patsy MorleyOutstanding Programmer Award.A committee selects one recipienteach year for the award, which isbased on an individual’s impact asan educator, the development ofstudent leadership skills andcocurricular programming, andcreativity.

Save the Date!Annual Community Open House

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2009, 3-7 p.m.Appleton campus

• Visit high-tech labs and classrooms• Learn how to pay for college• View demonstrations of the latest technology• Sample delicious treats served by FVTC culinary students• Enter to win prizes and college gift certificates good forclasses, seminars, books, or supplies.

For more information, visit www.fvtc.edu/openhouse.

Alyce Dumke

Vicky Barke

ManufacturingSuccessFVTC has helped Appleton-basedPierce Manufacturing succeed intoday’s competitive marketplacethrough a mix of customizedtraining options.

By Vicki Stavig

As a leading North Americanmanufacturer of custom fire apparatus—everything from fire trucks and rescuetrucks to a range of related equipmentfor customers throughout the world,Pierce Manufacturing has a strong needfor specialized training for its employees.The company has turned to Fox ValleyTechnical College to develop and presenttraining programs geared specifically forits employees and product line.

“We started partnering with FoxValley Tech in 2002 and have trainedabout 500 employees through the collegein everything from welding tohydraulics,” says Dave Herzfeldt,director of training for PierceManufacturing. “The partnership haspretty much everything we need skill-wise to help us educate employees.”Herzfeldt is particularly pleased with

the various learning objects FVTC offers.Learning objects are a cost-effectivemethod of training employees on a just-in-time basis. They present informationin a quick, accessible, visually enhancedformat through online delivery. “Theobjects provide an interactive,multimedia way of learning important

topics within theworkplace,” saysChad Blohowiak,media specialist atFVTC. “The contentbecomes accessibleto all employeesanytime, anyplace.”Pierce employees

were looking forexactly this type ofinnovative training.

Options Galore“Building a firetruck is a unique thing,” Herzfeldt says.“For example, we have more than70,000 options that can go on a firetruck. I talked to Fox Valley Tech aboutonline training and they showed mewhat a learning object is. You dissectsomething, a part or a process, and put itinto a module and people can learnabout it right at their desktops. Thecollege created a repository, or an onlinelibrary, for us that we call PierceUniversity, which has 150 modules. Wecan burn the objects onto CDs, butkeeping them all online allows us toupdate them easily, which is critical forour type of company.”One learning object deals with

connectors. “Pierce assemblers need toknow how to put connectors on wires,”says Dave Wuestenberg, key accountmanager for FVTC’s Business andIndustry Services area. “They can goonline, click on the learning object, andsee how to do it.”Pierce also uses the training modules

to support its North American dealersand sales representatives. “Historically,Pierce has only been able to offerproduct training classes for salesrepresentatives at our annual salesmeeting or at major trade shows,” saysBev Kindschy, sales systems manager forPierce. “Today, with Pierce University,product training is available online whenand where needed. This program enablesus to smoothly transfer product andtechnical knowledge to give these salesrepresentatives more power to succeed.”Pierce Manufacturing finds

tremendous value on its relationship withFVTC. “It’s a great partnership,”Herzfeldt says. “In the next five years,

we’ll take this a lot further. Fox ValleyTech is very flexible, which is importantto us. The business and industry team atFVTC takes the time to learn about firetrucks, resulting in an understanding ofwhat we’re doing and what we need.”

on workplace trainingfocus


For more information, visitwww.fvtc.edu/bis.�

The partnership haspretty mucheverything we needskill-wise to help useducate employees.

Dave HerzfeldtPierce Manufacturing

“”

Custom Fit

While Pierce Manufacturing isextremely pleased with the learningobjects FVTC has developed for itsemployees, the company also hasseveral cooperative programs withthe college. Last year, for example,Pierce was faced with a shortageof welders, so it worked with FVTCto develop and conduct a six-weekwelding course for its employeesbased on the college’s two-yearwelding program.

For the past 15 years, newemployees at Pierce also haveattended a one-day Pierce FireSchool at FVTC, where they learnthe history of firefighting, drivetrucks, lay hose lines, pump water,climb ladders, and experience howfirefighters use the company’sproducts. Pierce’s customers alsoneed training on how to use theirproducts. FVTC trains thecompany’s dealers, who in turntrain those customers.

Dave Herzfeldt, Bev Kindschy,and Dan Bailey of Pierce Manufacturing.

BuildingaBrighterTomorrowAn Appleton couple launches adynamic new energy business withthe help of FVTC’s E-Seed program.

By Phil Bolsta

Patrick and Ingrid Nahm are self-described “nerds with a socialconscience.” It’s a powerful combinationthat culminated in the launch ofAppleton Solar, a provider of solarenergy solutions for homes andbusinesses.The Appleton couple decided to

leverage their technical expertise to makethe world greener. Patrick had 11 yearsof engineering, project management, andmanufacturing experience. Ingrid was ascientist and hospital laboratorytechnologist who left a seven-year careerto become a stay-at-home mom to thecouple’s three young sons.There was just one problem with their

plan. “We both had the technical abilityto understand solar energy andtechnology,” Patrick says, “but we didn’tunderstand the business side—themarketing, taxes, legalities, and all theother things that go into starting andplanning a business.”Noticing an ad for the E-Seed

entrepreneurship training program at FoxValley Technical College’s Venture Center,the Nahms, both 33, decided it was timeto scratch their entrepreneurial itch.Patrick enrolled in the course and sharedthe materials and information withIngrid. “There were two aspects of thecourse,” he says. “One was teaching methe nuts and bolts: writing a businessplan and financial planningconsiderations for a business.”

The second aspect may not havecome from a textbook, but it was justas important. “The other part was thenetworking piece,” Patrick says.“During every class a different speakercame in. One night it was a lawyer,another night it was a marketingperson, another night it was anaccounting person.”The Nahms agree that the focus on

networking skills sets FVTC apart.“You can get an MBA from a universityonline, but that doesn’t guarantee thatyou’ll be successful in business,” Ingridsays. “It’s getting to talk to the peoplewho are there in the community, andknowing you can always refer to themwhen you have questions. It’s all aboutbuilding relationships.”

Doing the Right ThingThe Nahms launchedAppleton Solar in January2008 to help customersconvert the sun’s light intousable electricity by meansof a solar electric system.The company offers twoservices: site assessments forsolar electric systems andthe design and installationof these systems.“Business was good the

first year, and this year islooking to be even better,”Patrick notes. “On top ofthe existing rebates throughFocus on Energy and localutility companies, peopleget an additional 30% offthe cost of their systemfrom the federalgovernment. We expect thatto dramatically improve theresidential market inWisconsin.”Starting their own

business was as much aboutdoing the right thing as itwas providing for theirfamily. “We’ve seen what’shappening to our planet andwe wanted to do somethingthat was good for theenvironment, for the future,and for our children,”Patrick says.

The Nahms add that FVTC’s VentureCenter was a valued partner in thecreation of Appleton Solar. “The collegedoesn’t measure success by how manystudents go through the course, but byhow successful the students areafterward,” Ingrid says. “The VentureCenter and Fox Valley Tech are trulytrying to help people start successfulbusinesses.”

on the entrepreneurfocus

Ingrid and Patrick Nahm

Green is GoodIs this the right time for entrepreneurs withenvironmentally friendly offerings?

Patrick and Ingrid Nahm aren’t the onlyentrepreneurs making green by going green. Themarketplace is welcoming, even demanding, greentechnology and services in ways that would have beenunthinkable even five years ago. “We’ve seen greenbusinesses go from being categorized as the work oftree huggers to being completely mainstream,” notesAmy Pietsch, director of FVTC’s Venture Center.

Indeed, Pietsch expects the words “green” and“mainstream” to be synonymous before long. “Withinfive years, I don’t think we’ll be designating things asgreen, organic, or healthy,” she says. “Non-green,non-sustainable, non-environmentally friendly productswill be eventually phased out in the marketplace.”

Of course, classifying a business as green doesn’tensure survival. “Like any opportunity, the keys tosuccess are smart planning and making sure thatyou’re solving a problem in the marketplace,” Pietschsays.

Tune in on Saturdays from 9-10 a.m. forBiz Talk on WHBY 1150 AM for expertadvice on starting and growing abusiness.

For more information on Venture Centerofferings, visit www.venturecenterwi.biz.�

focus spring 2009 5

Business was goodthe first year, and thisyear is looking evenbetter.

Patrick NahmAppleton Solar

“”

�

realizing there’s a broad spectrum of things medical assistants can do, and they’re usingthem more,” says Kim Gropp, an instructor and department chair with Fox ValleyTechnical College’s Medical Assistant program at the Oshkosh Riverside campus.

Training for the FutureNeng Yang, 21, was working as a waitress before enrolling in the college’s MedicalAssistant program in August 2008. It wasn’t as if she hadn’t thought of going to collegebefore this. But after graduating from Oshkosh North High School in 2006, she wasn’tsure what she wanted to study. So she took a job at a local restaurant and put thoughtsof the future on hold. “I didn’t want to just rush into doing something and then not becommitted to it,” she explains.As the years passed, she thought about school a lot. But it wasn’t until her older sister,

Yer Chang, 24, starting studying to be an administrative assistant at FVTC that shefinally made the decision to start training for a career herself. “It was really motivatingfor me to see her go back to school,” Yang recalls. “I couldn’t help thinking, ‘Hey, she’sdoing something with her life and I need to do that, too.’”

How do you decide on a career inan economy that’s constantlychanging? That’s a question a lotof people are asking these days,and there are no simple answers.One good place to start, though,is to look hard at the job market.Regardless of the bad news we’reall hearing lately, some sectors aregrowing. One of the fastest is themedical assistant field.While you may not have heard

this term before, if you’ve been toa doctor’s office or clinic, it’salmost certain you’ve met at leastone. Medical assistants are usuallythe people who call your nameand show you to an exam roombefore taking vital signs, includingtemperature and blood pressure.They ask about your medicalhistory, and record yoursymptoms and concerns for thedoctor. They also give shots; assistin minor surgery; draw blood; andrun lab tests on blood, urine, andother specimens. Depending onthe doctor, a medical assistantmay also be the person who callsabout lab results, and lets youknow when a prescription hasbeen called in.Medical assistants do many of

the same things nurses do. In thelast several years, the role ofmedical assistants has expanded toinclude a broader range of dutiesthan in the past. “Moreprocedures are being done inclinics rather than hospitals, andphysicians and organizations are


The need for medicalassistants is growing,and Neng Yang istraining in an FVTCprogram that's keepingpace with the industry.

By Meleah Maynard

HEALTHa

FVTC Medical AssistantInstructor Kim Gropp (left)with Neng Yang.

Though she’d always thought of doing something in the medical field, Yang didn’t knowwhat. After learning more about medical assistants, she talked with her sister, Yer, and theydecided to pursue the Medical Assistant degree. “We’re doing everything together,” saysYang. “We take classes, and help each other out. It’s good to have her there.”One thing Yang likes about the one-year, technical diploma program is that Gropp, her

instructor, is a Certified Medical Assistant. “She tells us stories about what she’sexperienced and that’s helpful,” says Yang, who recalls an anecdote in which Gropp took apatient’s blood pressure and realized that something was wrong. “She reported it to the doctor and she was correct—something was wrong. If she hadn’t known her stuff, no one may have noticed it.”

Growing to Meet the NeedFVTC launched its Medical Assistant program in Oshkosh in 2002 because the nursing shortage at that time had increasedthe need for trained medical personnel. “Medical professionals were contacting us to say that they needed medical assistantsto be readily available,” says Gropp.By the second year, the program reached its capacity of 24 students, with more waiting to get in. Within a few years, the

number of students hoping to enroll has only increased. To help meet the need, the college started a second program at its new

focus spring 2009 7

HYoutlookSpotlight onWaupacaFVTC has several campusesand regional centers, butWaupaca was chosen as thesite for the new MedicalAssistant program because ofthe growing need for medicalassistants in rural areas, saysLori Weisse, instructor andchair of Waupaca’s MedicalAssistant program.

The Waupaca program’spopularity has attracted a widevariety of students, ranging inage from 20 to 50, who comefrom many differentbackgrounds. Some were in abusiness field and wanted tochange jobs. Others aredisplaced workers looking tomove into a career thatappears more stable in today’seconomy.

One student recently returnedfrom a meeting at a localworkforce development center,where she learned there wereabout 350 open medicalassistant positions in the area,stretching between Green Bayand Fond du Lac. “I’m notsurprised there are that manyopenings,” says Weisse. “A lotof places are figuring out thatmedical assistants can do mostof the same things nurses do,so there’s a lot of room forgrowth.”

Waupaca Regional Center inAugust. “We’re already seeinggreat interest in our Waupacaprogram,” says Zoe Cujak,associate dean of FVTC’s Business,Health, and Service division.Twelve students are currentlyenrolled there, and recruitmentefforts have led to the approval ofmore students who are ready toenter the program.“What’s nice about having both

locations is that they’re set up soOshkosh students start in January,and Waupaca students start inAugust,” says Cujak. “That way, ifa student needs to repeat a class,he or she can usually go to theother campus to do so withouthaving to wait until it’s offeredagain.”


Another innovative way FVTC is addressing theinflux of students entering health care-relatedtraining programs is through Ready Groups. Thecollege no longer maintains a list of studentswaiting to get into a program. Rather, the ReadyGroup process enables students to take necessarygeneral education, science, and elective courses.“Instead of students putting their name on a

waiting list to start taking any coursework, they nowcan take general education courses in high-demandprograms like this,” Cujak notes. “Then they have abetter chance of getting into core classes.”Cujak also points to another unique aspect of

FVTC’s Medical Assistant program: the use ofhuman patient simulators. Often used to trainother types of medical workers such as paramedicsand nurses, the simulators are essentially high-techmannequins. Most are remarkablysophisticated.

FVTC’s Medical Assistantprogram has opened upnew career possibilities

for Neng Yang.

For more information, visitwww.fvtc.edu/health.�

...organizations arerealizing there’s abroad spectrum ofthings medicalassistants can do,and they’re usingthem more.

Kim Gropp,FVTC instructor”

“

Growing up, Theresa Cross wasalways on the move, and a littlebit of a maverick.“My family is pretty

nontraditional,” she says. “Mymom and I were on our own andwe moved around a lot. In myyounger years, it seemed like Iwent to a different school everyyear.”Theresa moved to Kaukauna

when she was in high school. “Istruggled right away,” she recalls.“It seemed like I had to spendmost of my time and energy tryingto fit in—and I just wanted tolearn. It was such a waste, and Iended up quitting.”Although Cross quit high

school, she wasn’t about to quitlearning. Her mom hired a studentfrom Lawrence University inAppleton to tutor her in math.Theresa bought GeneralEducational Development (GED)preparation books for othersubjects she needed to master toearn her GED credential andcomplete the work herself.After completing her GED

studies, Cross decided to “see theworld.” She went to Louisiana tomeet her father. She spent timefollowing the fusion jam bandPhish around the country fromconcert to concert. Her nomadiclifestyle limited her careeropportunities, so she grabbedwhat work she could—for themost part tending bar or workingas a waitress.

focus spring 2009 9

einventionTheresa Crossof

TheRWhen Theresa Crossdiscovered she wasabout to become a singlemom, she knew sheneeded to find a betterjob. She never dreamedthat a class at FVTCwould uncover heraptitude for accounting,and change her lifeforever.

By Chuck Benda

father and his family, to friends and neighbors, she never lacked for peoplewilling to help. And that includes almost everyone she came in contact withat FVTC—from her instructors to the people in the financial aid office, to herfellow students. “I can’t think of anyone who wasn’t supportive,” she says.

Nunenkamp was one of several FVTC instructors who providedrecommendations and helped Cross apply for scholarships. While at FVTC, she wasawarded three scholarships and received a number of federal Pell Grants. In the end, shewas able to pay for almost her entire education through various forms of financial aid.

Quite often, the support Cross received from the people at FVTC went well beyond thecall of duty. Carole Schroeder, an instructional aide in the accounting lab, helped Cross withher homework and even assisted her in finding a part-time job. “She became a close friend,”says Cross.

Cross graduated from FVTC in December 2008. In all, it took her three years to completethe Accounting program. By comparison, it took almost no time at all to find the kind ofjob she’d been hoping for.

Dream JobShortly after graduation, Cross began—and ended—her job search. At the Career Fair onthe Fox, a public job fair sponsored through FVTC’s Student Employment Services and theUniversity of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, she met Dawn Johanknecht, a certified public accountant

And then one day when Crosswas 26, everything changed. “Ifound out I was pregnant,” shesays. “I knew I had to reevaluatemy lifestyle and future.”

Thinking she might build on herwork experience, she signed up fora business math class at Fox ValleyTechnical College’s Appletoncampus. She did so well that herinstructor, David Nunenkamp,took notice. “He told me I had thebrain of an accountant,” Crossrecalls. “And he told me I mightfind job opportunities and greatpay in accounting.”

A little encouragement was allshe needed. She enrolled in FVTC’sassociate degree Accountingprogram and began taking classes.

Support NetworkExtraordinaireWhile returning to school seemedlike a good idea, Cross soondiscovered how difficult it was togo to school, work, and care forher daughter, Ava, all at the sametime. “The first semester, I onlysigned up for eight credits, but itwas about all I could handle,” sherecalls. “I’d go to school all day,come home to take care of Ava,and try to get my homework donetoo.”

Still, she found creative ways tomeet the demands of her schedule.For example, she read heraccounting homework to herdaughter in place of bedtimestories. “The only thing thatmattered to Ava was that I made itsound like a story,” she recalls,laughing.

Despite the challenges, Cross fellin love with accounting. She wentto school year-round and thrived inthe classroom, maintaining a 3.5+grade point average throughout hertime at FVTC. “Theresa caught onquickly,” says Dr. Verne Bryers,chair of FVTC’s Accountingdepartment and Cross’ instructorfor several classes.

“Our classes are more hands-onthan most four-year programs,”Bryers adds. “And group work isessential. Theresa soon developed areal knack for the team approach.”

Cross credits her success to theextraordinary support she receivedboth in and out of school. Fromher mom and her stepdad, to Ava’s

Theresa Cross is amazed that she earned a great job with anassociate degree in Accounting. Dawn Johanknecht isn’t.

“Accounting firms like ours are hiring more and more graduateswith two-year degrees,” says Johanknecht, a CPA and principal withSuby, Von Haden & Associates. “We’ve had so much success withthem; we often joke about wanting to clone them.”

FVTC Accounting program graduates possess the right mix of skills,according to Johanknecht. “The curriculum at FVTC, with itsemphasis on computers and technology and the use of integratedaccounting software, gives students exactly the kind of preparationwe’re looking for,” she says.

“There are many jobs for people with associate degrees,” addsDr. Verne Bryers, chair of FVTC’s Accounting department. “Witheverything going on in the economy these days, there’s an evengreater need for accountants to ensure compliance withregulations.”

Whatever the cause, recent research supports the contentions ofJohanknecht and Bryers. The U.S. Department of Labor projectsthat the overall demand for accountants and auditors will grow byalmost 18% between 2006 and 2016; more than 225,000 newaccountants and auditor positions will need to be filled.

What’s more, according to a recent survey of more than 3,500working accountants conducted by Payscale.com, accountants withassociate degrees were earning almost as much ($40,448) peryear as accountants with bachelor’s degrees ($42,463). The surveydid not provide information about how long respondents had been inthe workplace.


Even during uncertain economic conditions,the accounting field remains steady.

DemandHIGH

insurance, and other benefits—anda job that is exceeding herexpectations. Cross, who will turn30 in April, also has a fiancé, Kyle,who has been very supportive of allthe new dimensions in her life.

“I never imagined that with anassociate degree I could start outwith such a great job and such anice salary,” she says. “And it’spretty cool, too, that there’s a placelike FVTC, where what mattersmost is your determination.”

and a principal with Suby, Von Haden & Associates, a Madison-based accounting firm withoffices around the Midwest. “I was very impressed with her right away,” says Johanknecht.“Her enthusiasm and ability to communicate, along with the way she presented herself,convinced me to ask her back for a full interview the next day.”

On January 5, Cross accepted a position as an associate accountant in the firm’s Neenahoffice. In addition to a full range of accounting services for businesses and individuals, Subyoffers wealth management and information technology consulting. “Theresa is working onbookkeeping, payroll processing, preparing tax returns, and more,” says Johanknecht, whoadds that Cross is off to a good start.

Although the pace of her new job gets frantic at times, things aren’t all that muchdifferent than when she was going to school. Except now she has a regular paycheck, health

FVTC offers a two-year Accounting degree and a one-year AccountingAssistant technical diploma. For more information, visitwww.fvtc.edu/business.�

focus spring 2009 11

Theresa Cross and Dawn Johanknecht

I never imagined that with an associatedegree I could start out with such a

great job and such a nice salary.”“

When Eric Reindl was a kid, hetaught his mom how to turn onher computer and helped her learnhow to use it. It always came easyto him and was something heenjoyed doing. But it wasn’tsomething he wanted to turn intoa career when he graduated fromhigh school in 2003. Instead, hetook a job installing gutters.A friend’s father hired him to

work at his gutter-installationbusiness. It worked out well.Reindl loved being outside in thesummer and appreciated theopportunity to stay active all day.

But eventually, the physical labor and lack of opportunities started to wear him out. “Itwas taking a toll on my body, for one thing, and I didn’t really think I had that great ofa future installing gutters,” he admits.Now Reindl’s future is looking much better. The Green Bay native is about two

semesters shy of earning an associate degree in Computer Control EngineeringTechnology (CCET) from Fox Valley Technical College. He’s already been checking outjob listings and feels confident that he’ll be able to find work in the growing field whenhe graduates.Craig Hemken, an instructor in the program, has high hopes for Reindl and all of the

other students enrolled in the CCET program as well. Hemken helped launch theprogram at FVTC about five years ago. He talked to local industry representatives anddiscovered that they could use employees with both electronic and computer hardwareskills, as well as programming and software knowledge.“That hybrid mix of skills was something they were looking for,” says Hemken.

“More and more processes are becoming automated. There is a need for people whohave both electronic and computer skills.”

Destiny By Sara Gilbert

Eric Reindl (left) and FVTC instructor Walt Hedges


When Eric Reindl discovered the Computer Control EngineeringTechnology program at FVTC, he figured out his future career.

Controlling his

Controlling the EnvironmentComputer control engineering technology is the use of computers to control real-timeapplications. It integrates electronics, software, computer systems, and control systemsto create innovative solutions for industrial dilemmas, and is used in many differentsettings, from manufacturing companies to hospitals and other health-care providers.It was the combination of electronic circuitry and computer programming that

appealed to Reindl when he started investigating new career options. He hadconsidered opting for a basic networking degree, but he knew that eventually hewanted to go beyond that with his skills. When he heard about computer controlengineering, he was intrigued. “It deals with networking, which I like, but also withfixing circuitry and troubleshooting,” he says. “It sounded like something I wouldenjoy.”Once he had settled on a new career path, however, the challenge became finding a

place to pursue it. Because CCET is still a relatively new field, degree programs can behard to find. FVTC offers the only program of its kind within the Wisconsin TechnicalCollege System.That was ideal for Reindl, who lives in Green Bay but works in Appleton. “When I

found out the program was at FVTC, that was perfect,” he says. “I go to school earlyin the morning, go to work, and then most days return to school again in theevening.”Add homework to that schedule and Reindl’s life is quite hectic. His wife, Jessie, is

one of the reasons he started the program in the first place. When they got married in2006, Reindl realized that it would be hard to support a wife and children with themoney he was making installing gutters. He didn’t have any opportunities foradvancement, unless he wanted to own a business of his own. “I wasn’t ready forthat,” he says. “I just wanted to make enough money for my family.”

Meeting the ChallengeAlthough FVTC’s 70-credit CCET program is designed to be completed in two years,Reindl knew when he enrolled that it would take him a bit longer to finish. He’s beentaking classes on a part-time basis so he can also fit in almost 30 hours of work perweek. Many other students have taken advantage of that option, Hemken says. “A lotof students have to work,” he notes. “We want this program to be flexible enough forthem as well.”The program is challenging, which is another reason that Reindl is grateful for the

opportunity to tackle the courses at his own pace. The first half of the program isdevoted to mastering the electronics portion of the equations, basically learning howelectricity works. The second half focuses on the computer control components. Hestarted those related classes last semester.Reindl has always enjoyed math and science, and working with numbers comes

fairly easily for him. This frame of mind has helped prepare him for an engineeringtechnology career. “He’s a very logical person,” says FVTC Electronic TechnologyInstructor Walt Hedges. “He’s very systematic in the way he solves problems.”Reindl appreciates the problem-solving practice he’s already learned. Working with

circuits that have hundreds or possibly even thousands of resistors can be tricky, headmits, but he’s beginning to understand the process of troubleshooting problems.“There are a lot of different components to put together and figure out,” he says.“There’s a good deal of problem solving that you have to do.”

Engineering a Flexible FutureThe next problem for Reindl to solve is where to work once he’s done with the CCETprogram. With his degree, he’ll be ready for work in a variety of situations. His goal isto find a job as a control system engineer, possibly in a health care setting. FVTCoffers a specialized biomedical controls course that he’d like to take, if time allows. Hecould also look for a similar position at a nearby manufacturing company, or work asa software engineer or instrumentation technician.Of course, he’s already got the perfect position in mind. He’d love to be able to take

a job at a hospital in Green Bay, where his wife works as a medical assistant. He’s seenjob listings in the classifieds for that particular site and is hopeful that something willbe available when he’s finished with his degree. “It would be really nice to have someactual structure to my day,” he says.

For more information, visitwww.fvtc.edu/engtech.�


Engineeringat FVTCAs FVTC alumnus Katy Dawson knows,graduates of the college's ComputerControl Engineering Technology (CCET)program can choose from a widevariety of career opportunities.Dawson, who recently graduated fromthe college, has a rewarding new job inthe engineering field.

In addition to the two-year CCETprogram, the college has otherengineering programs available:

• Applied Engineering Technology,which is designed to preparetechnicians to enter an evolvingwork environment by providing asolid background in generalmanufacturing areas.

• Electrical EngineeringTechnology, which providesstudents with the skills they need towork as technicians in theelectronics industry or to continuetheir education in a bachelor ofscience degree in ElectricalEngineering Technology.

• Electronic and ComputerEngineering Technology, whichprepares graduates to work in theareas of networking, programdevelopment, and application ofdigital-based electronic systems.

Engineering technologyalumnus Katy Dawson

Q&A with Hilbertnative Tim Franz,Chief of the OshkoshFire Department.

By Phil Bolsta

When did you attend FVTC?I attended from 1981 through 1983 andearned my associate degree in the FireProtection Technician program. Ienrolled again in 1985 to receiveparamedic training.

Why did you choose FVTC?I wanted to be a firefighter/paramedicsince I was an early teen. My influencerswere my father, who was chief of thevolunteer fire department in Hilbert, andmy brother, who was also a volunteerfirefighter. When FVTC coordinated alive fire training session, my brotherinvited me along to observe. Heintroduced me to David McFadden, whowas the coordinator of the fire programat the time. After my discussions withMr. McFadden, I was convinced thatFVTC was the place I needed to go tostart a career as a firefighter.

What does a typical workweek look like?It’s a little different now than when Istarted as a firefighter, because thosewere 24-hour shifts. I now work daytimehours Monday through Friday, butevening events such as city councilmeetings can extend my days. I alsorespond to major problems andemergencies on nights and weekends.I occasionally fill in for battalion chiefswhen they’re on vacation; that’s a24-hour shift while I’m also serving inmy capacity as fire chief.

What are yourresponsibilities as fire chief?It’s a broad range, everything frompersonnel and budgeting to planning anddeveloping the policies for thedepartment. I also meet with the publicregularly and serve as the incidentcommander at major city emergencies.

Each day is different; there is no setschedule, which is one of the things I likeabout the job.

How did you come to befire chief?When I graduated from FVTC, I didn’thave the intention of being a fire chief oneday. But as I worked my way up throughthe ranks of the department, my interestin this career and in fire service just grewstronger. Early on, I began collecting ideason how I thought things could be donebetter, and I hoped someday to be in aposition where I could make thosechanges happen. After graduating fromFVTC I continued my education at theUniversity of Cincinnati and at theNational Fire Academy. My careercontinued to evolve. I was honored to benamed fire chief in June 2000.

What challenges do youface on your job?Like everyone else in the government,we’re dealing with fiscal issues. In thebusiness world the demand for servicesmay be down, but the demand for ourservices is increasing. But with taxrevenues going down or being held flatbecause of state levy limits, it’s gettingmore difficult to fund those services. Theincreased demand is largely due todemographic reasons, primarily relatedto emergency medical services becauseour population is growing and agingwhile health care is changing.

What do you do in yourleisure time?I spend a lot of time with my family. Mywife, Jennifer, and I have three daughterswho are 20, 17, and 14. I also likeworking in my workshop and gardening.In the summer, I’m on a pit crew for astock car racing team with my cousins atWisconsin International Raceway.

Fire Protection CareerTraining at FVTC

The 434 students enrolled in FVTC’sFire Protection Technician programreceive state-of-the-art training at oneof the Midwest's premier fire trainingfacilities, located in Neenah.

Under the leadership of departmentchair Jeremy Hansen, the programcovers fire prevention, fireinspections, fire investigations, firetruck operation, fire protectionsystems, building construction, andmore. It also deals extensively with thehandling of hazardous materials andoffers instruction on different modesof technical rescue, including rope,confined space, and trench rescue.

Graduates typically find careeropportunities throughout Wisconsinand the nation. “We are very highlyregarded as a technical college thatgets our students ready for theirjobs,” Hansen says. “Most of ourstudents are hired within 12 monthsof graduation, and they can expect along career as a firefighter.”

on alumnifocus

For more information, visitwww.fvtc.edu/firetrainingcenter.�


I was convinced thatFVTC was the placeI needed to go tostart a career as afirefighter.

Tim Franz

“”

Oshkosh Fire Chief Tim Franz

Old Friends,Strong TiesFor four decades, FVTC andJ. J. Keller & Associates haveworked together to help meet theregion’s workforce needs.

By Vicki Stavig

Neenah-based J. J. Keller & Associateshas long been committed to helpingensure the economic vitality ofnortheastern Wisconsin. Such acommitment is evident in the $20 millionin contributions the J. J. KellerFoundation has made to organizations inthe area. Over the years, Fox ValleyTechnical College has been one of manybeneficiaries of the J. J. KellerFoundation’s generosity.

“We place greatvalue on Fox ValleyTechnical College,”says Jim Keller, vicepresident and treasurerof the J. J. KellerFoundation, whichwas founded in 1991.“We’ve beensupporting the collegefor the last 40 years.It’s a great partnership,and it has stood thetest of time.”

J. J. Keller &Associates produces 6,000 safety andregulatory compliance products andservices for 400,000 clients throughoutthe world, and has been a substantialsupporter of FVTC’s Truck Drivingprogram. “Our largest market is thetransportation and truck driving market,

and FVTC has one ofthe finest truck drivingprograms in thecountry,” Keller says.“It’s a big piece of thecommunity.”

In 2004, a $500,000contribution from theJohn J. & Ethel D.Keller Donor-AdvisedFund within theCommunity Foundationfor the Fox ValleyRegion was the lead giftfor a community-wide campaign thatgenerated $2.1 million for scholarshipsand special projects at FVTC. Inrecognition of this major lead gift andthe Keller’s longtime support of thecollege, FVTC’s transportation centerwas renamed the J. J. KellerTransportation Center in November2004.

Today it houses the college’s TruckDriving, Diesel, and Automotiveprograms. “I’m convinced that ourprogram would not be in the position it’sin without the assistance of the J. J.Keller Foundation,” says Rob Behnke, aprogram advisor and instructor inFVTC’s Truck Driving program.

That program currently includes 48semi-trucks and trailers, as well as fiveClass “B” commercial vehicles, accordingto Deborah Heath, FVTC’s dean ofTransportation and ConstructionTechnologies.

Thanks to a $400,000 gift in 1999from the J. J. Keller Foundation, studentspractice driving those trucks on the J. J.Keller Driving Range, a one-mile, closeddriving course. Over the years, the J. J.Keller Foundation has also supportedtruck driving scholarships, the FVTCTruck Driving Staff Professional GrowthFund, and curriculum adaptation forstudents for whom English is a secondlanguage. The organization also donateda truck-driving simulator to FVTC androutinely provides the college’sTransportation department with books,videotapes, and other training materials.

The partnership doesn’t stop there.The college has also received donationsfrom the J. J. Keller Foundation for itsParent/Child Center at the Appletoncampus, and Fire Training Center in

Neenah. In addition, the J. J. KellerFoundation contributes to an annualscholarship for Culinary Arts students.

“We help FVTC and they help us,”Keller says. “The college helps us withassociate training and trains people foremployment, and we hire them and keepthem in the Valley. We’re sort of like firstcousins.”

on the Foundationfocus

We place great value onFox Valley TechnicalCollege. We’ve beensupporting the college forthe last 40 years.

Jim Keller

“”

From left, J. J. Keller Foundation Boardmembers Mary Murvine, Bob Keller,

Marne Keller-Krikava, and Brian Keller.

For more information ongiving that works, visitwww.fvtc.edu/foundation.


Take Your Best Shot forStudents in Need

FVTC Foundation 2009 Golf Outings

Join us and our event sponsor,Community First CreditUnion, for two incrediblegolf outings: Wednesday,July 15, at LakeshoreMunicipal Golf Course inOshkosh; and Wednesday,August 5, at Crystal Springsin Seymour.

Our 2009 fundraising goal is$150,000 to support the increasedneeds of students in today’s challengingeconomy.

Many sponsorship opportunities areavailable. To learn more, visitwww.fvtc.edu/golfouting or callAlyce Dumke at (920) 735-5695.

Help our students becomeFuturemakers!

�

Jim Keller

Help at HandOnce a volunteer project, FVTC’sstudent-run IT Helpdesk nowprovides an exceptional hands-onlearning experience.

A few years ago, Beth Calder lost her jobin the automotive industry and foundherself “sick of going from $10 jobs to$10 jobs.” After considering her options,she decided to return to school, andchose Fox Valley Technical College.

“It was close to home, and I could geta hands-on education,” Calder says,adding that IT was at the top of her list.“I have always enjoyed working withcomputers, and was told that I was goodwith them, so I thought, ‘Why not?’ Itook five skills tests that tell you whatcareer path to take. IT networking wasin the top two on all five.”

So she took the plunge and beganworking toward an associate degree inthe IT Network Specialist program. Itwas a big challenge—Calder is marriedwith children. Still, she was so motivatedto pursue the challenge that she took onan ambitious volunteer project duringthe Fall 2007 semester: launching and

operating FVTC’s Student IT Helpdesk.The project addressed two needs:

providing additional assistance forstudents experiencing computerproblems, and creating a convenient,hands-on work experience for ITstudents. She was joined on the projectby fellow student Jon Smith, a pairingthat turned out to be ideal. “He tendedto handle more of the technical side ofthe project,” says Calder. “I primarilyhandled the administrative side.”

The pair had to contend with a host ofchallenges, including finding a physicalspace on campus, determining whatservices to provide, recruiting volunteersto staff the Helpdesk, and more. But theypersevered and opened the service duringthe Spring 2008 semester.

Today, it addresses a range ofcommon problems, including slow-running computers, viruses, networkconnection issues, and basicmaintenance. The services are free andthe word has spread. In addition,working at the Student Helpdesk is nowintegrated into the Help Desk Conceptsand Customer Service Skills for HelpDesk Professionals courses.

“Some students have sent us thankyou notes,” Calder says. “They were

glad there was a place to go that wouldnot charge a ton of money to fixsomething they might not otherwise beable to afford.”

For Calder, who is now pursuing abachelor’s degree online, the experiencewill fuel her future. “It confirmed that Iwant to be in a network of computersand people,” she says. “I learned that Ican take an idea, put it together withresources, implement it, and problem-solve. There are obstacles, and youhave to determine how to getaround them.”

on student lifefocus

Survivors andHeroes Among ThemFVTC’s Speaker Series bringsinspiring and entertainingspeakers, and powerful lifelessons, to students and thecommunity.

Even the most successful programs canuse a bit of tweaking. For Fox ValleyTechnical College’s Speaker Series,established in the late 1980s, that hasmeant giving students and faculty moreinfluence in selecting speakers whoenhance course content and student life.

After surveying students about topicsthat interest them, the college’s StudentLife staff and Student ActivitiesCommittee identify 10 to 15 high-levelspeakers annually. The student bodynarrows the list via surveys, and facultymembers consult about tying the


speakers’ subjects to their coursework.The Spring 2009 lineup is typical.

Drummer, producer, and songwriter PhilVarone shared his story of drugaddiction, in hopes of keeping today’syouth out of those traps. Teri JendusaNicolai, who related her harrowingordeal of spousal abuse on ABC’s 20/20,discussed domestic abuse warning signs.

Paul Rusesabagina (center)interacts with students.

By Karen Hansen

The college also welcomed Henry Boonein 2008, the real-life figure played byDenzel Washington in the movieRemember the Titans.

When Paul Rusesabagina, the real-lifehero portrayed in the film HotelRwanda, spoke in January, among thethousand people packed into FVTC’sAppleton campus commons was HenryGolde. A Holocaust survivor, Golde’sown annual Speaker Series appearancefills to capacity.

For all sessions, attendance is free andstudent fees fund the speakers.

Beth Calder

For more information on theIT programs at FVTC, visitwww.fvtc.edu/IT.�

View a video clip ofRusesabagina's inspiring storyat www.fvtc.edu/hotelrwanda.

For more information, visitwww.fvtc.edu/speakerseries.�

�

HELP OUT LOCALLY BY DONATING AT OUR APPLETON, MENASHA OR OSHKOSH CENTERS!LEARN MORE AT WWW.BIOLIFEPLASMA.COM

GIVE BACK. GET MORE.Donate plasma at BioLife Plasma Services.

You receive money and give life to patients in need.

Individual winners:

Jake Eickstedt—1stPlace,Career Planning: Power, Structural&TechnicalSystems; 4thPlace, Employment Interview:AgricultureEquipment

Jesse Backhaus—2ndPlace,Career Planning: Power, Structural&Technical Systems

Michelle Wozniak—3rdPlace, PreparedSpeaking

Brad Birzer—4thPlace, Fertilizer&AgricultureChemicals

Stephanie Meinnert—6thPlace,Career Progress:AgribusinessManagement&Marketing Systems (non-retail)

Jose Chacon—7thPlace, Forestry&NaturalResources

Team winners:

College Bowl—4thPlace,AdamKolb,EricRedeker, JakeEickstedt,JoseChacon, andMichelleWozniak

Dairy Contest Team Event—7thPlace, JessicaVanGheem,AdamKolb,MichelleWozniak,BruceReese

Crop Specialist Team Event—15thPlace, EricRedeker, BrandonVoss, andZacharyVoss

Jake Eickstedt, first-place nationalwinner at the Post-Secondary

Agriculture Student Conference

Students in

SpotlightTwelve FVTC students representing theAgri-Business/Science Technology, Agriculture/OutdoorPower Equipment, and FarmOperation programs earnednational awards inMarch at the2009Post-SecondaryAgriculture Student Conference inHershey, PA.

National

NON-PROFITORGANIZATION

U.S. POSTAGE PAIDFVTC

We want yourfeedback! Visit:www.fvtc.edu/focussurvey.

Follow grad Ryan Guthrie's workas a global robotics expert by

visiting www.fvtc.edu/ryan

�

Fox Valley Technical College Focus Magazine Spring 2009

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Transcript of Fox Valley Technical College Focus Magazine Spring 2009