More than 100 high school students gathered at the NWTC Shawano Learning Center for its largest healthcare event of the year, gaining hands-on experience and exploring career opportunities in a field vital to Shawano’s growing community.
Hosted by NWTC in partnership with ThedaCare, the event connected students from Gresham and Shawano High Schools with more than 30 healthcare professionals from ThedaCare and other local organizations. Students engaged with healthcare professionals through hands-on activities, strengthening their understanding of career opportunities and training pathways.
“Collaboration between higher education and local businesses is key to building a strong workforce that can support our community’s growth,” said Jeannie Otto, NWTC Regional Manager for Shawano and Oconto Falls Centers. “Hands-on experiences like this give students the confidence to explore career opportunities while connecting them with professionals who can guide their path. By engaging students early, we’re not only helping them discover their future careers, but also inspiring them to stay, work, and contribute to the bright future of Shawano.”
Shawano’s Growing Demand for Healthcare Professionals
As one of Wisconsin’s fastest-growing counties, Shawano is experiencing a rising demand for healthcare services. Ranked #5 in the 2024 Book of Lists by Business News, Shawano is projected to grow by nearly 12% (4,791 people) by 2040. The county has also been named a top retirement destination, contributing to a rapidly aging population and rising healthcare demands.
Health programs at NWTC continue to see steady enrollment, with strong interest in nursing and other healthcare-related fields. As the demand for skilled professionals increases, particularly in rural areas, NWTC remains committed to preparing students for meaningful careers in healthcare.
“We’re seeing continued interest in healthcare careers at NWTC, particularly in fields that are essential to supporting our local healthcare system such as nursing,” said Brian Krogh, Interim Dean of Health Sciences at NWTC. “Addressing workforce needs in rural communities requires strong partnerships between education and industry. Our collaboration with ThedaCare provides students with valuable hands-on experiences, ensuring they are well-prepared to enter the workforce and make an immediate impact. By strengthening the healthcare pipeline, we’re helping to support the long-term well-being of our communities.
As a leader in healthcare training, NWTC remains a top producer of graduates across Wisconsin in critical healthcare fields like the Nursing-Associate Degree, Practical Nursing, Physical Therapist Assistant, Surgical Technologist, and many more.
An Innovative Partnership for a Stronger Healthcare Workforce
The event is part of a long-standing partnership between NWTC and ThedaCare, focused on addressing workforce gaps in the healthcare sector. Together, they have developed innovative solutions, including Wisconsin’s first educational space inside a working hospital. This unique model gives students hands-on clinical experience, helping them to develop critical skills, adapt to hospital operations, and transition into the workforce. As a result, graduates enter the workforce more confident and prepared to deliver high-quality patient care from day one – benefiting both students and the healthcare system.
“This partnership is incredibly unique,” said Kellie Diedrick, Vice President of Critical Access Hospitals for ThedaCare. “Having NWTC on our hospital campus is a pipeline that has allowed our system to continue to care for the Shawano community. This partnership with NWTC is one way that we are strengthening our local health care workforce. Collaborations such as this are a great benefit to our organization. We’re proud to help develop future caregivers who are passionate about serving patients and families and providing high-quality care for our communities.”
To learn more about starting your career in healthcare and other training opportunities offered through the NWTC Shawano Learning Center, visit www.nwtc.edu/about-nwtc/nwtc-locations/shawano or call 715-524-2418.
People who are interested in learning more about open positions at ThedaCare can visit ThedaCare.org/Careers.
