New skills and a degree led to career growth for a supply chain management graduate

After years in management roles, Carla Larson made a major career change and stepped into a new field with the goal of continuing to grow professionally. Although she had work experience, Larson found it difficult to advance in her new career. 

“I had all this hands-on experience, but it wasn’t translating on paper,” she said. “I knew I needed something more to move forward.” 

Determined to break through that barrier without stepping away from her full-time job or family, Larson turned to NWTC’s  Supply Chain Management program — a decision that would not only help her advance professionally but also reshape her confidence and future. 

Today, Larson serves as NWTC’s 2026 Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Student Ambassador, representing students and raising awareness about the impact of technical education across the state. Through sharing her story, she helps bring visibility to pathways like her own while continuing to grow her career in a way that stays aligned with her priorities at home. 

Flexibility for real life

When Larson applied to NWTC, she was working full time, raising a young son with her husband, and managing the everyday responsibilities of a family. For Larson, starting college was more than enrolling in classes — it was about finding something that would realistically fit into her busy life. 

Carla Larson, her husband, and their son at the 2026 WTCS Ambassador Banquet.

NWTC’s fully online Supply Chain Management associate degree program helped make college possible for Larson. It gave her the flexibility to complete coursework on her own time.  

But it was more than just convenience that made the difference. Larson also found a sense of community. 

“When I was finally brave enough to enroll, I reached out, talked to an advisor, and they were really welcoming and ready to help,” she said. “That’s the big thing here. It’s a community, and there’s always someone there to support you.” 

That combination of flexibility and support made continuing her education feel manageable. Without an online option, Larson said going back to school would have meant making difficult sacrifices, including time with her son. 

“With that flexibility, I don’t feel like I’m sacrificing anything,” she said. “It really fit into my lifestyle.” 

Turning experience and education into career advancement

As Larson moved through the Supply Chain Management program, she began building confidence in her day-to-day work. The skills she developed in class carried over into her role at work, making it easier to contribute, communicate, and take on new challenges. 

As a result, Larson earned a promotion at work while completing her degree. Now, she’s taking another step to advance her career by continuing her education at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, where she plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in supply chain management. 

Carla Larson shaking hands with NWTC President Dr. Kristen Raney at graduation.

This next step is a continuation of what Larson set out to achieve from the beginning: growing her career while staying grounded in her priorities at home.  

“I came to NWTC to really elevate my career,” she said. “That means supporting my family and still having the flexibility to be there for them.” 

2026 WTCS Student Ambassador

Larson’s growth at NWTC extended beyond the classroom. She was selected as NWTC’s 2026 Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Student Ambassador, one of 16 students representing technical colleges across the state. The program recognizes students for academic achievement and leadership and community involvement, while highlighting the role technical colleges play in preparing students for in-demand careers.

For Larson, taking on the ambassador role has meant stepping outside her comfort zone.

“I’m naturally more of an introvert, so this has challenged me to grow in public speaking, networking, and connecting with others,” Larson said.

Larson sees her role as an opportunity to advocate for technical education and for students who may not see themselves on a traditional college path.

Growing up, Larson was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia and often questioned whether college was a place where she would succeed. That uncertainty followed her into adulthood and made the idea of continuing her education feel out of reach.

“I didn’t think I was going to be successful,” she said. “But NWTC gave me the confidence to keep moving forward.”

Now, she uses her story to encourage others to take that same first step. She understands what it means to balance work, family, and school, and emphasizes that there is no singular path or timeline for success.

Through her work as a WTCS ambassador, Larson is helping others see what is possible and how technical education can open doors, build confidence, and create opportunities at any stage of life.