Six newly established colleges at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College are intended to create clearer pathways into careers. (Northeast Wisconsin Technical College photo)

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Northeast Wisconsin Technical College will operate under a new academic structure, placing its Academic Affairs and Workforce Development divisions into six newly established colleges.

The change is designed to align programs with industry needs and expand student opportunities, according to NWTC officials.

“This is about more than reorganizing departments — it’s about making it easier for students to start, stay and succeed,” said Dr. Kathryn Rogalski, NWTC’s vice president of Academic Affairs and Workforce Development. “By aligning programs into six focused colleges, we’re creating clearer pathways through NWTC and into meaningful careers, while strengthening the connection between education, workforce and community.”

In a news release, Green Bay-based NWTC announced these six new colleges:

— College of Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Trades;

— College of Allied Health;

— College of Business, Communication and Social Sciences;

— College of Nursing;

— College of Public Safety; and

— College of STEM — Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

Rogalski said the academic restructure reflects NWTC’s commitment to delivering career-focused education that is evolving with the needs of students, employers and the region.

At NWTC, STEM is among the most common transfer areas to four-year universities. Previously, programs such as Engineering Technology were housed within the Trades and Engineering department, while much of the supporting coursework was spread across different academic areas. This sometimes made it harder for students to see how their courses connected or to navigate a clear academic path, according to NWTC.

With the launch of the new College of STEM, NWTC said it intends to have a more connected and supportive experience — with well-defined course plans, coordinated guidance from faculty and advisors, and better access to transfer opportunities in their area of study.

“This kind of alignment will now be possible across every college — helping students make informed choices earlier, connect more deeply with industry, and graduate with the confidence and credentials to succeed,” Rogalski said.

For students currently enrolled at NWTC, the transition will not affect tuition, financial aid eligibility, program-specific accreditations or transfer agreements, the college said. The college has a site in Aurora, Wis., and a number of area students have been able to earn NWTC credits while still in high school.

Community and employer partners will also benefit from the change, said Dr. Kristen Raney, NWTC president. By more closely aligning academic programs with workforce demands, NWTC is unlocking new opportunities for collaboration, talent development and regional economic growth, she said.

“It’s a strategic investment in our future — one that positions NWTC to continue delivering exceptional education, strengthening workforce readiness and driving regional progress for years to come,” Raney said.

For more information, go online to www.nwtc.edu/academics-and-training.