After 30 years of dedicated service on the NWTC Board of Trustees, Carla Hedtke is retiring, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of leadership and advocacy for students and technical education at the local, state, and national levels.
In addition to her work on the NWTC board, she has represented the College on the Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association and at national meetings for the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). Her leadership earned her the prestigious Central Regional Trustee Leadership Award from ACCT and the Trustee of the Year Award from the Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association, both in 2020.
Throughout her tenure, Hedtke was involved in key milestones for the College, helping to shape the College's future and its impact on both past and future generations of students. Among her many contributions, she was involved in the selection of two NWTC presidents – President Emeritus Dr. Jeffrey Rafn and current president, Dr. Kristen Raney.
In this Q&A, Hedtke reflects on her three decades of service, the value of technical education, and the lasting impact NWTC has had on her life and community.
What first inspired you to join the NWTC Board of Trustees, and what has kept you engaged for the past 30 years?
I became involved because I saw an opportunity to contribute to strategic initiatives that enhance educational quality and access. Over the past 30 years, I’ve stayed engaged because I’ve witnessed the transformative impact NWTC has had on our community. It also gave me the opportunity to assist and collaborate with passionate local, state, and national educators and leaders. The evolving challenges and opportunities in education have made the work dynamic and rewarding, motivating me to stay involved and help navigate those changes.
Over the years, how have you seen NWTC's role in the community evolve, and what impact do you believe the College has had on Northeast Wisconsin?
Over the years, NWTC's role in the community has evolved in various significant ways. Initially, the College focused primarily on providing technical education and vocational training. As the needs of the community and the economy changed, NWTC expanded its offerings to include a broader range of programs such as professional development, adult education, and partnerships with local businesses to ensure the curriculum is in alignment with workforce demands. I believe NWTC's evolution and impact reflect a responsive and proactive approach to education – addressing the needs of students and the community, helping to shape a stronger future.
Why do you believe technical education is so important today – and for the future?
Technical college education is increasingly vital today and for the future. It addresses job market demands and equips individuals with specific skills needed to follow the advancement of technology. Besides learning specific skills, students learn critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. I believe technical college education is essential for personal development, economic stability, and societal progress – making it a cornerstone for the future workforce.
What are you most proud of during your time serving on the NWTC board?
I am most proud during graduation every May. As I look out over the audience and see the graduates, their smiles, and their jubilation – and see the same expressions from their families – I know how proud they feel. They have the same feeling I felt as I presented a diploma to my two grandsons. I remember the happiness I felt from the GED® certificate graduates and their families when I attended their ceremony. I could see hope and a bright future ahead for them, something they once thought was out of reach.
What's been one of your most memorable moments at NWTC, whether at an event, meeting, or just something that made you smile?
Of course, there have been many memorable events during my trusteeship at NWTC because I tried to attend as many as possible, but very high on my list is a recent event – the 2025 Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Student Ambassador Banquet. It is held every year in Wisconsin Dells, and I usually work when it's held, but I decided to go this year. It was the most inspiring event.
At each Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association meeting and at special events, we hear about students’ journeys and stories, but at the Student Ambassador Banquet we heard many, many students speak about their struggles and the support they received during their educational journey. It was very evident that our community and partners valued their association with the WTCS.
