TRIO Student Support Services More Support. More Community. More Confidence.
Navigating college can feel overwhelming, especially if you are struggling with financial resources, are a first-generation college student, and/or have a documented disability.
With TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) at NWTC – a 100% free program – you can reach your goals and build friendships and connections along the way. TRIO SSS offers intensive support to help you graduate!
You'll have exclusive access to the TRIO Team who will help you plan your academic and career journey through regular, one-on-one check-ins. You will even have dedicated workshops, events, and travel opportunities to learn about transferring to a four-year college!
Apply for the TRIO program
Space is limited – NWTC’s TRIO program supports up to 140 students per year – so apply early and start building your path to success today! Learn more about eligibility and program participation requirements below.
Application Available March 1, 2026
TRIO Benefits
Current NWTC students who are enrolled in an academic program, meet other eligibility requirements (see "Who is eligible to participate in TRIO SSS?" – below), and are accepted into TRIO will gain:
Support
Your TRIO support specialist will provide personalized academic, career, and financial planning. Plus, you’ll receive:
- Early access to class registration.
- Seamless referrals to College services and community resources to help you succeed.
Community
Make meaningful connections. In the dedicated TRIO space within the Student Involvement Office, you can:
- Join workshops that are TRIO-student focused.
- Meet and build relationships with staff who want to see you succeed.
- Hang out with other TRIO students and find your people.
Confidence
- Build skills with workshops on mental health, leadership development, finances, resume development, and more.
- Visit four-year universities with your fellow members.
- Participate in networking opportunities to prepare for your future career.
- Receive a special cord to wear with pride on graduation day.
Frequently asked questions
What is TRIO?
TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) is a program funded by the U.S. Department of Education that has been in place since 1968 to help students with academic need reach their goals. TRIO students are 47% more likely to earn an associate's degree or transfer and 18% more likely to earn a bachelor's degree. (Source: The Council for Education and Opportunity)
Who is eligible to participate in TRIO SSS?
To qualify for services a student must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, be accepted into a program at NWTC, demonstrate an academic need for services, and meet at least one of the following criteria:
- First-Generation: An individual whose parents have not completed a four-year degree.
- Low-Income: Household taxable income meets TRIO/SSS guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Education.
- Student with a Disability: An individual with a documented learning, physical or emotional disability. Documentation must be submitted to the NWTC Disability Services Office.
Does it cost anything to participate?
No! Participating in the TRIO program is 100% free. We just ask that you participate as much as possible to take advantage of what the program has to offer.
What do I need to do if accepted into the program?
Once you're accepted into NWTC's TRIO program, you will be required to complete the following each semester:
- Meet with your TRIO case manager at least three times
- Attend two TRIO-approved workshops or events
What are the goals of TRIO SSS?
- Help students graduate and get a career – or transfer to a four-year college/university
- Provide support for students to help guide their personal, academic, and career success
- Increase awareness of 4-year college transfer options and professional opportunities
- Help students stay in good academic standing
- Improve students' financial and economic literacy
Have more questions? Contact us.
For more information about the TRIO program or eligibility requirements, please email us at trio@nwtc.edu. If you need to connect with your assigned TRIO staff member, please see their information below.
- Email:
- megan.weycker@nwtc.edu
- Phone:
- 920-498-5588
- Email:
- john.grant@nwtc.edu
- Phone:
- 920-498-6984
This project is 100% funded by a TRIO Student Support Services grant from the U.S. Department of Education, providing $272,364 per year for five years (2025–2030).