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Student Spotlight: Katie Karow
Career Program: Automated Manufacturing Systems TechnologiesOriginally From: Combined Locks / Kimberly / Appleton, WI Current Residence: Combined LocksYear Started at FVTC: 2024 Why did you choose this career program? I have always enjoyed complicated 3D puzzles and being mechanical. When I took robotics in high school, I really enjoyed the mechanical and programming side of it.

Forged Early
When Logan Nikolai was 13, he pulled on a welding helmet for the first time. The bead he laid that day on a metal door at the Kids Kart Club shop in Neenah wasn’t perfect, but it was enough to spark something lasting. Inspired by his grandfather, he had spent years helping build go‑karts, fixing

FVTC Transformed into a STEM Playground
For two days, FVTC’s Appleton campus became a giant interactive science festival for 1,400+ area sixth and seventh graders. In partnership with Michigan Tech Mind Trekkers, the college hosted STEM Possible Fest for students to explore nearly 60 hands-on STEM stations. Students rotated through activities that blended science, technology, engineering and math. Each one was

Focus on Careers: Horticulture
Did you know Fox Valley Technical College is home to one of the region’s most hands‑on, nature‑powered learning environments? FVTC’s Horticulture program gives students the chance to study plant science in real greenhouses, explore careers that range from landscaping to greenhouse operations, and gain practical skills that local employers look for. Recently, instructor Cat Franzke
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A New Learning Curve for Construction Students
Construction isn’t always about straight and square. Thanks to an industry donation, Construction Management Technology (CMT) students are working with specialized materials designed to bend and curve. Flex-Ability Concepts donated multiple pieces of flexible metal framing and arch components often used in commercial construction. With the donated materials, students practice creating curved walls, soffits, ceilings
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Student Spotlight: Jacob Sterns
Career Program: Construction Management Technology (CMT)Originally From: Ida, MICurrent Residence: New LondonYear Started at FVTC: 2024 Why did you choose this career program? I grew up with dirt under my nails and a deep appreciation for working with my hands, building everything from decks to sheds, because I find it grounding to create something tangible. While
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Focus on Careers: Auto Collision Repair & Refinish
Auto collision repair is about a lot more than fixing dents. The way Joe Kircher sees it, auto collision repair is about having a knack for technical precision, an openness to evolving technology and a meticulous eye for craftsmanship. As department chair of the Auto Collision Repair and Refinish Technology program at Fox Valley Technical
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Faculty Spotlight: Q&A with Justin Wege
Justin Wege was a farm kid, so he knows how to work hard. From his early mornings milking cows to years in dealership service management, Justin’s path to teaching was shaped by hands-on experience. As the Department Chair for the FVTC Precision Agriculture and Agriculture Mechanics programs, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his
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Celebrating Black History Month
February is dedicated as Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in the history of the United States. We proudly support and celebrate the African American community at Fox Valley Technical College this month and all year long. The following learning opportunities are available
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Student Spotlight: Joshua Crismon
Career Program: Occupational Therapy AssistantOriginally From: West Jordan, UtahCurrent Residence: AppletonYear Started at FVTC: 2024 Why did you choose this career program? It started as just a result from an interest profile assessment, but as I looked deeper into the field, I realized that it was an opportunity to teach, support and serve others. I have always had the desire to
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FVTC Foundation Scholarships Turn Possibilities into Reality
The Fox Valley Technical College Foundation is celebrating another season of impact—one that is making a meaningful difference for hundreds of students who recently started their spring 2026 semester. Following the Fall 2025 application cycle, the FVTC Foundation awarded $378,195 in scholarship support to 460 students, selected from nearly 930 applicants. For many recipients, an
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Public Confidence in Fox Valley Technical College Continues to Rise
Public confidence in Wisconsin’s technical colleges is growing and new statewide survey results show Fox Valley Technical College is being recognized for what Wisconsin residents value most in higher education: hands-on relevant learning, employable skills and clear transfer pathways. The latest Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Public Perception Survey shows two‑thirds of Wisconsin residents hold
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Focus Online Magazine
The 2026 edition of Focus magazine highlights students and alumni who chose FVTC to build credits, confidence and a career.
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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
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Student Spotlight: Katie Karow
Career Program: Automated Manufacturing Systems TechnologiesOriginally From: Combined Locks / Kimberly / Appleton, WI Current Residence: Combined LocksYear Started at FVTC: 2024 Why did you choose this career program? I have always enjoyed complicated 3D puzzles and being mechanical. When I took robotics in high school, I really enjoyed the mechanical and programming side of it.
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Student Spotlight: Jacob Sterns
Career Program: Construction Management Technology (CMT)Originally From: Ida, MICurrent Residence: New LondonYear Started at FVTC: 2024 Why did you choose this career program? I grew up with dirt under my nails and a deep appreciation for working with my hands, building everything from decks to sheds, because I find it grounding to create something tangible. While
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Student Spotlight: Joshua Crismon
Career Program: Occupational Therapy AssistantOriginally From: West Jordan, UtahCurrent Residence: AppletonYear Started at FVTC: 2024 Why did you choose this career program? It started as just a result from an interest profile assessment, but as I looked deeper into the field, I realized that it was an opportunity to teach, support and serve others. I have always had the desire to
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Student Spotlight: Jeff Westby
Career Program: Criminal JusticeOriginally From: North Fond du LacCurrent Residence: North Fond du LacYear Started at FVTC: Spring 2025 Why did you choose this career program? I was unhappy in my previous career and decided to make a change. Coming from a family of public servants, mostly firefighters, I felt the need to serve and after discussions with my family policing
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Shout-Out to Our Student Speaker Nominees
It’s a week to celebrate our students as we prepare for commencement. We’re proud to recognize four outstanding individuals who were nominated by FVTC faculty and staff for the honor of serving as the 2025 Winter Commencement Speaker. Paula Grambsch, Kimberly Henley, LeAnn Wierzba, and Vaab Xiong each represent the dedication and spirit of Fox
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Student Spotlight: Ted Tickler
Career Program: Supply Chain ManagementOriginally From: ShioctonCurrent Residence: Little ChuteYear Started at FVTC: Fall 2023 Why did you choose this career program? I chose this field because I have always loved working in materials and logistics. I enjoy the challenges that come with keeping supply chains moving efficiently and finding solutions whenever an obstacle arises. What are you learning about
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Student Spotlight: Kelly Gruber
Career Program: Interior DesignOriginally From: Kalamazoo, MichiganCurrent Residence: AppletonYear Started at FVTC: 2022 Why did you choose this career program? I have been an Artist from a young age. After graduating from high school I started my college education at Kalamazoo Valley Community College in the Interior Design program. After a year, I got married and my husband and I started
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Student Spotlight: Sarah Beth Reiff
Career Program: Greenhouse Operations and Landscape HorticultureOriginally From: GreenwoodCurrent Residence: AppletonYear Started at FVTC: 2024 Why did you choose this career program? I love working outside in nature and understanding how plants grow what they need to live. I find it rewarding to get a harvest from a plant to make some awesome dishes. I love getting my hand dirty and
