Fox Valley Technical College President Dr. Chris Matheny joined Northeast Wisconsin Technical College President Dr. Kristen Raney for an interview with Action 2 News to discuss the Wisconsin Technical College System’s (WTCS) request for a $168 million investment in the 2027-29 state budget.
The WTCS’s budget request is aimed at strengthening workforce development, expanding educational access and helping meet the growing demand for skilled workers across the state.
During the discussion, Dr. Matheny emphasized that funding for Wisconsin’s technical colleges is an investment in the state’s workforce, economy and future talent pipeline.
“We’re looking at it as an investment in the workforce, primarily in Northeastern Wisconsin,” Dr. Matheny said. “The fact that we’re able to collaborate across our institutions in this higher education ecosystem should give taxpayers and those making investments in us a really great platform from which to launch careers.”
The leaders highlighted growing partnerships among technical colleges and four-year institutions that help create seamless pathways for students while addressing workforce needs across the region. They also pointed to the critical role technical colleges play in preparing graduates for high-demand careers and filling workforce shortages faced by Wisconsin employers.
The conversation also focused on the importance of expanding dual enrollment opportunities for high school students. The budget proposal includes funding to increase access to programs that allow students to earn college credit while still in high school.
Addressing the upcoming budget process, Dr. Matheny stressed that workforce development and education are issues that benefit all Wisconsin communities.
“Education is not typically a partisan issue. Figuring out what’s best for our workforce is not a partisan issue,” Dr. Matheny said. “We understand that there are only so many dollars in the state to go around, but we believe that we’re the best value in higher education.”
Watch the full interview on Action 2 News >>>
