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Career-connected learning: SkillsUSA brings nearly 400 middle, high school students to ��

goersab — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Career-connected learning: SkillsUSA brings nearly 400 middle, high school students to ��goersab February 25, 2026

Engineering, technical, design competitions prepare young people for future careers

Nearly 400 students from 41 middle schools and high schools across the state will put their engineering, technical and design knowledge to the test at the SkillsUSA Regional Competition at ��, Thursday, Feb. 26, and Friday, Feb. 27.

Students will compete in more than 35 events hosted by Continuing Education and Conferences. Using industry-standard machinery, devices and software across campus labs, competitors’ hands-on experiences help prepare them for their future careers – a goal at the core of Wisconsin ��. ��.

�� students will also build their leadership skills as they help coordinate judging and develop many of the challenges, such as the Team Engineering Challenge. Technical events include 3D printing, additive manufacturing, automotive service technology, carpentry, CO2 dragster, electronics technology, entrepreneurship, mechatronics, medical terminology, precision machining technology, robotics, photography and video production, welding and more.

Events are coordinated and judged by �� faculty, staff and students, SkillsUSA advisors, technology educators and alumni.

Media are welcome to cover the competition. Contact Youth Program Manager Tiffany Hoage at hoaget@uwstout.edu for a full schedule and location of events.

The competition will also host a Future-Ready Workforce Summit from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Feb. 26. Area business leaders, human resource directors, and recruiters from across Wisconsin will participate with SkillsUSA Wisconsin team members to discuss the challenges of finding and recruiting skilled employees and how SkillsUSA Wisconsin can partner with organizations and school districts to provide a pipeline of skilled and qualified future workers.

Career-connected learning in action

Career and technical student organizations (CTSOs), like SkillsUSA, are what ��. working in education, said SkillsUSA Wisconsin State Director Jake Mihm, technology and engineering consultant with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

“When we think about career-connected learning and developing the whole child to be college and career ready, CTSOs are the perfect fit to round out a student ��. professional endeavors. Thank you to �� for hosting this event for more than 40 years,” he said.

Mihm, a 1998 �� education in technology and engineering alum, hopes the competition helps students:

Gain a sense of purpose and connectedness to what they are learning in their technology and engineering courses.
Gain a sense that there is more to learn outside of high school and that there is a wonderful variety of opportunities for them beyond secondary education.
Have a positive experience on a Universities of Wisconsin campus.
Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.

Students build leadership skills

Many student volunteers are members of student organizations, such as the Student Construction Association and the Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association, which provides leadership opportunities for future educators.

Students Jessica Heckenkamp and Lilly Douty are leading two volunteer efforts this year. Heckenkamp, a double major in manufacturing engineering and mechanical engineering, is the logistics lead for the Team Engineering Challenge, working with engineering technology Program Director Abhi Ghosh. Douty, a hotel, restaurant and tourism management major, is a SkillsUSA Wisconsin alum and has been helping to plan the regional competition.

“I hope the competitors take away from the challenge are the benefits of being able to solve a problem promptly, the value of teamwork, and gracious professionalism, which is the ability to be competitive whilst being a good sport,” Heckenkamp said. “The biggest benefits I see from young students getting to work within Stout are exposure to the college work environment and the confidence that they will get from knowing they can continue their learning and expand their skills up to the college level.”

For Douty, an events management minor, it ��. been a nostalgic experience planning the event. “It has reconnected me with my old SkillsUSA advisor and brought back many other sweet memories. It ��. been great to apply my HRTM skills I’ve learned in class to this event coordinator position. I plan to pursue a career in event management after college, so both HRTM and this campus position are equipping me for the future,” she said.

As a SkillsUSA alum, Douty ��. biggest takeaway from participating in the competition was the connections she made. “I connected with like-minded students from all over Wisconsin, many of whom are still close friends,” she said. “Beyond the friendships, I developed valuable skills such as public speaking, leadership and project management. Competing and collaborating pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me gain confidence in my abilities, both personally and professionally.”

The annual SkillsUSA State Competition will be held April 7-8, in Madison. �� faculty and students will be running the Team Engineering Challenge at the state competition.

SkillsUSA is a nationwide organization that provides educational programs, events, and competitions focused on career and technical education. Founded in 1973, Wisconsin SkillsUSA has 166 high school and middle school chapters. Its talent pipeline covers more than 110 trades, technical, and skilled service occupations, mostly related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

��'s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management offers 26 undergraduate and 11 Graduate Studies degree programs, eight academic departments, the School of Management and the Robert F. Cervenka School of Engineering.

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Engineering, technical, design competitions prepare young people for future careers SkillsUSA Regional Competition

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College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management

Excitement, accomplishment and potential are three words that probably best describe what you will experience here.

Tiffany Hoage

As the Youth Program Manager at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, Wisconsin ��. ��, I design and lead initiatives that help young learners discover their strengths, spark curiosity, and see themselves as innovators and problem-solvers.

Through programs such as STEAM summer camps, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), SkillsUSA, and Science Olympiad, students explore emerging fields, build technical and transferable skills, and gain confidence in their academic and career pathways.

By collaborating with faculty, student leaders, PK-12 and higher education partners, industry, and youth-serving organizations, I help expand access to high-impact experiences that develop future-ready talent and strengthen communities.

If you are interested in partnering, I welcome the opportunity to connect and explore how we can create meaningful impact together.

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Degree: Ph.D. Biomedical Sciences

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Degree: Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design

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Degree: B.S. Applied Science (Laboratory Management)

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Supporting entrepreneurs: Edgewood Bakeshop benefits from business students’ cost accounting project

goersab — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:50:00 +0000

Supporting entrepreneurs: Edgewood Bakeshop benefits from business students’ cost accounting project goersab February 20, 2026

Successful small business collaborates with class to improve operations, sales

Abbey Goers

Nothing draws a hungry crowd quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread, the flaky deliciousness of croissants, the mouthwatering perfection of pastries. At Edgewood Bakeshop, owner Bekah Stamps welcomes daily crowds, as patrons form a line out the door of her popular artisanal bakeshop in downtown Chetek.

But how does an already successful business improve its operations and increase sales? For Stamps, the answer came in a collaboration with �� business administration students.

Recently, students in Lecturer Kayla Stajkovic ��. Cost Accounting course used Edgewood Bakeshop ��. real cost, sales and operations data to analyze break-even points, product decisions and seasonal sales patterns. At the end of the project, they presented their recommendations to Stamps.

As lines form out the door, Edgewood Bakeshop's products consistently sell out. / Bekah Stamps

“I was impressed with the level of professionalism I witnessed from the students in this class,” Stamps said. “There were multiple moments where I felt that I was sitting with an accounting firm I’d hired to deep dive into my business. These students have a bright future, and I’m honored to have been able to collaborate with them in this way.”

Stajkovic thinks small businesses are uniquely powerful learning partners because their challenges are visible, immediate and consequential. “When students work with small businesses, they see firsthand how interconnected decisions are. Small businesses — especially newer ones — are often operating with limited resources while the owner wears every hat: operations, marketing, finance, HR,” she said.

Using cost accounting as a strategic decision tool

At the start of the project, Stamps visited the class, shared her background, her vision for Edgewood Bakeshop and her belief that bread was her primary profit driver.

Bekah Stamps opened Edgewood Bakeshop's Chetek storefront in 2024, after operating as a travelling and pop-up bakery for two years. / Bekah Stamps

However, the students’ analysis proved that what looks most profitable on a simple revenue-minus-cost basis isn’t always the most profitable when constraints are considered. When they calculated contribution margin per oven minute and per labor hour, instead of just per unit, they discovered that croissants could outperform bread depending on which resource was the true bottleneck.

“That shift from ‘Which product makes more money?’ to ‘Which product makes the best use of our limited resource?’ was transformational for the students. It moved cost accounting from a formula-based approach to a strategic decision-making tool. Several students commented that this was the moment when accounting stopped feeling procedural and started feeling managerial,” Stajkovic said.

This was also a standout moment for Stamps, who had done a brief analysis of unit cost and profit margin on a couple of her products when she began. “My assumption about the bread was actually incorrect, and it caused me to think about ways to drive more sales with certain products that I wasn’t previously considering,” she said.

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‘Exactly what experiential learning is meant to do’

The Office of Corporate Relations & Economic Engagement serves to connect organizations and entrepreneurs with �� . talent, tools and technology. Those seeking consultation and collaboration may reach out to OCREE with questions.

These collaborations distinguish �� students’ applied, experiential learning from a traditional education, as they give back to the community and fuel their careers with real-world experience before graduation.

Cost accounting students presented their findings at the end of their project. / Kayla Stajkovic

One of the most meaningful parts of this project for Stajkovic was watching students gain confidence. “Many began the semester unsure about cost accounting. By the end, they were defending recommendations to a real business owner using data they had analyzed themselves. That growth — from uncertainty to ownership — is exactly what experiential learning is meant to do,” she said.

Business administration senior Emanuel Sanchez, of St. Paul, was surprised by the confidence he gained. “This project changed how I approach business problems by shifting my focus away from finding a single ‘correct’ answer to making informed decisions with incomplete information. I strengthened my analytical skills, particularly in applying accounting tools to real-world situations and clearly explaining financial results,” he said.

Business administration junior Allison Lindner, of Stratford, thinks the project reinforced the idea that business decisions and analysis are not all about correct calculations and costs, but rather communication, informed judgment and thinking beyond the box.

“Overall, it has furthered my collaborative skills, ability to ask open-ended questions and assumptions, and understanding of the numbers in real operational challenges,” she said.

Cost accounting students enjoy treats from Edgewood Bakeshop. / Kayla Stajkovic

The students saw how messy real data can be, which is something no textbook can fully teach. “The experience changes how the students view their education. They began to understand that the numbers they learned in class can directly impact someone ��. livelihood,” Stajkovic said. “For the business, even one useful insight can be meaningful. Those partnerships may be smaller in scale, but they are incredibly high in impact — for both sides.”

For Stamps, it was a fun, informative and mutually beneficial project. “It would be interesting to revisit some of these calculations in two or three years when Edgewood Bakeshop is further established to see what ��. shifted and how the business has grown,” she said, adding that giving students interested in becoming business owners a “day in the life” might also be insightful for future business classes.

�� . School of Management offers 20 undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates that build students’ leadership skills in business, hospitality and technology innovation, military science, and operations and management fields.

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Hero Caption: Edgewood Bakeshop, a popular artisanal bakeshop in downtown Chetek. Photo contributed by owner, Bekah Stamps.

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Tips for Young Entrepreneurs

goersab — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Tips for Young Entrepreneursgoersab February 20, 2026

8 bits of advice from business professionals

As the spring semester flies by, upcoming graduating seniors are often asked that ever-looming question, “So, what are your plans after commencement?” Many �� students already have their answer, with 99% employed or pursuing additional degrees within six months of graduation.

Some students answer the question confidently with, “I’m starting my own business.” But where do they begin?

Business administration Lecturer Kayla Stajkovic and entrepreneur Bekah Stamps, owner of Edgewood Bakeshop, a popular artisanal bakeshop in downtown Chetek, combined their knowledge to pool some advice for students – or anyone – seeking to start their own business.

Supporting entrepreneurs: Edgewood Bakeshop benefits from business students’ cost accounting project

Successful small business collaborates with class to improve operations, sales

Tips for Young Entrepreneurs

Start with the problem, not the product. Strong ventures begin with a deep understanding of a real need. Spend time observing, listening and understanding who you’re serving before building the solution.
Start small, be adaptable and always curious. While researching and knowing what you want for your business is important, taking action is the only thing that will move the needle forward.
Progress beats perfection. You don’t need a perfect launch. Pilot ideas, gather feedback and adjust. Entrepreneurship is iterative — learning speed often matters more than initial perfection. You can have a plan and an idea on how you want things to go, and inevitably, something will come along that will cause you to have to pivot or find solutions.
Accept failures with humility and use them to grow. As a wise person once said, “There are no such things as problems, only solutions waiting to happen.”
Know your numbers, even if you’re not a numbers person. You don’t have to be an accountant, but you do need financial awareness. Understanding cash flow, pricing and sustainability protects your vision long term.
Build relationships, not just revenue. Connections and collaboration are essential to a successful business. Customers, mentors, community partners and collaborators are your real infrastructure. Strong networks create resilience and opportunity. If you have a business idea, reach out, network and don’t be shy.
Treat people as you would want to be treated. When your business scales to a place where you have a team, that team will move mountains for you if you set the right example.
Expect discomfort and grow through it. Entrepreneurship requires making decisions with uncertainty, receiving feedback and adapting quickly. The discomfort is not a sign you’re failing — it ��. often a sign you’re building something meaningful.

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�� Online engineering, education, management programs ranked among best by U.S. News & World Report

giffeyt — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

�� Online engineering, education, management programs ranked among best by U.S. News & World Reportgiffeyt February 2, 2026

Annual rankings recognize bachelor ��. and master ��. programs for helping students advance education, career goals

Tom Giffey

Returning to school as an adult student balancing work, family or military responsibilities is a daunting challenge. �� . Stout Online gives students the flexibility, affordability and support necessary to succeed in the face of this challenge, and in doing so has once again been ranked among the Best Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report.

Stout Online helps working professionals begin or complete their degrees or advance their career goals through more than 30 online bachelor ��. and graduate programs, as well as dozens of certificates, certifications, individual courses and development opportunities.

According to the just-released 2026 rankings from U.S. News, Stout Online offers some of the Best Online Programs in the state, region and nation. �� ranked No. 3 among all public universities in Wisconsin and Minnesota for its bachelor ��. in management and leadership and its master ��. in education and engineering programs. These programs also attained the following rankings:

Best Online Bachelor ��. in Business Programs: No. 26 in the Midwest, No. 88 nationwide.
Best Online Master ��. in Education Programs: No. 36 in the Midwest, No. 133 nationwide.
Best Online Master ��. in Engineering Programs: Top 19 in the Midwest, No. 79 nationwide.

Provost Glendalí Rodríguez

“With more than 1,300 online students, we understand that working professionals are balancing academic pursuits with many other responsibilities,” said Provost Glendalí Rodríguez, vice chancellor of Academic Affairs. “Through flexible online offerings, we work to meet students where they are. Given �� . polytechnic mission, we facilitate relevant, career-focused education to help working professionals increase their advancement opportunities and skills.”

U.S. News evaluates online programs based on a variety of factors, including student engagement, faculty credentials, and services and technologies. Now in its 14th year, the U.S. News Best Online Programs is designed for individuals looking to complete or further their education. This year ��. edition evaluated more than 1,800 online bachelor ��. and master ��. degree programs using metrics specific to online learning. The rankings include only degree-granting programs offered primarily online by regionally accredited institutions.

Stout Online furthers students’ careers

�� faculty are experienced industry experts dedicated to teaching the latest in technology and trends in their fields. Small cohorts build close communities and share a wealth of diverse perspectives to enhance each other ��. learning.

M.S. Manufacturing Engineering Online

Do you want to improve your ability to respond to the needs of modern manufacturing? Advance in your career with your online degree.

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Students in the online M.S. in manufacturing engineering program, part of �� . Robert F. Cervenka School of Engineering, enhance their professional skills through assignments and projects that apply to real-life industry problems. They build expertise in continuous process improvement, lean manufacturing, project management and manufacturing engineering processes. Students may also choose to earn a Six Sigma Black Belt Certificate to meet the degree ��. elective requirements.

M.S. Education

Take your career in education further and enhance your impact on students' lives.

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The online M.S. in education is a 30-credit degree program built around a core of 18 teaching and applied research credits, with a selection of 12 elective credits to meet students’ career interests. While meeting those elective requirements, students may earn one of a number of professional certificates or certifications, including Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist, Instructional Design, Math Specialist, Reading Specialist or Teaching Adult Learners.

�� . School of Education also offers online master ��. programs in school counseling and career and technical education as well as an Ed.D. in career and technical education leadership.

B.S. Management & Leadership

Our B.S. Management & Leadership program is designed to open new doors to advance your career through industry-enhanced classes and real-world experiences.

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�� . online bachelor ��. in management and leadership program, offered through the School of Management, has been ranked No. 10 among the best online programs by BestAccreditedColleges.com. It offers eight concentrations to help professionals reach their career goals, including business leadership studies, community-based service management, finance and accounting, human resource management, operations management, project management, quality management, risk control and safety management, and supply chain management.

�� graduates are in demand, with 99% employed or pursuing additional degrees within six months of graduation, a figure that rises to 100% among graduates of the three online programs honored by U.S. News. Those who received graduate degrees from �� had an annual starting salary of $74,000. Meanwhile, the average starting salary for recipients of �� undergraduate degrees was $57,000, according to the university ��. most recent First Destination Report.

For its dedication to affordability and student outcomes, �� has earned national recognition as one of America ��. Best Colleges by Money Magazine for two years in a row.

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Hero Caption: �� manufacturing engineering students program industrial robots. �� . online M.S. in manufacturing engineering program was ranked No. 19 in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.

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Inspiring Graduate: Zaid Abdullah, M.S. Operations & Supply Management

goersab — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:35:00 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Zaid Abdullah, M.S. Operations & Supply Managementgoersab December 23, 2025

Automation Displays procurement engineer aims to deliver measurable value to organizations

Inspiring Graduate: Zaid Abdullah (’25)

Hometown: Baghdad, Iraq, and Chippewa Falls
Degree: M.S. Operations & Supply Management
Focus Areas: Project Management and Quality Management
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

As a procurement engineer at Automation Displays, Inc., in Eau Claire, Zaid Abdullah aims to continue growing in strategic supply chain management, operational excellence and process improvement roles and is committed to leveraging his Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification to lead initiatives that eliminate waste, optimize operations and deliver measurable value to organizations.

Zaid Abdullah receives his master's hood and �� degree on Dec. 20, 2025.

Abdullah was born and raised in Baghdad, Iraq, and moved to the United States in 2019. He became a U.S. citizen in May 2025. He was drawn to �� because of its reputation as Wisconsin ��. ��, with a strong emphasis on applied learning, hands-on experiences and industry-focused education.

“The polytechnic approach aligns perfectly with my career goals. �� blends classroom theory with hands-on, real-world application. The faculty, facilities, and collaborative environment have prepared me to make a meaningful impact with my master ��. in operations and supply management,” Abdullah said.

“Becoming a U.S. citizen, while completing my master ��. and applying Lean Six Sigma principles in my career, reflects the perseverance, determination and commitment that �� inspires in its students. Being a Blue Devil means carrying forward a spirit of innovation, hard work and purpose. I’m ready to contribute positively to my field and community,” Abdullah said.

At age 17, Abdullah qualified to work as an interpreter for the U.S. Army and Multinational Forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2003 to 2011, facilitating communication between U.S. military forces and Iraqi citizens. He also was a construction contractor, rebuilding barracks at the U.S. Embassy.

Abdullah has a bachelor ��. degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Technology in Baghdad. He earned his master ��. in operations and supply management and crossed the commencement stage on Dec. 20 as one of 527 �� graduates. He also aspires to serve the community as an emergency medical responder, contributing to public safety and emergency preparedness.

Zaid Abdullah is a procurement engineer at Automation Displays, Inc., in Eau Claire.

“Commencement represents a time of celebration, reflection and anticipation. It is a culmination of hard work and resilience and a moment to look forward to new opportunities,” Abdullah said.

“I am grateful to �� for providing an environment that fosters innovation, collaboration and excellence. My journey from Baghdad to Chippewa Falls has taught me the importance of perseverance, cultural understanding and community involvement. I look forward to applying these lessons in my professional career and community service.”

How do you hope to make an impact in your field?

I aim to make a significant impact by implementing data-driven strategies and Lean Six Sigma methodologies to improve supply chain efficiency, enhance quality and optimize operational performance.

My goal is to bridge the gap between engineering and management, ensuring that processes are not only technically sound but also strategically aligned with business objectives. Ultimately, I want to contribute to building resilient, innovative and sustainable organizations that deliver value to their customers and communities.

How has �� prepared you to work in your field?

�� has prepared me exceptionally well through its hands-on, applied learning model. I particularly valued the collaborative projects and lab experiences where theoretical knowledge was applied to real-world problems.

While my professional experience has primarily been through full-time roles at Automation Displays, Fleet Farm and DHL Supply Chain, �� . master ��. in operation and supply management program ��. focus on applied research, data analytics and quality management has enhanced my ability to lead projects, optimize operations and implement continuous improvement initiatives effectively.

Supply chain management student taking next step to pursue master ��. degree

Abdullah traveled a long road, pointing to a far-off destination, to reach ��

What stands out about your �� experience?

Several things stand out: the professors who bring real industry expertise into the classroom, the access to cutting-edge labs and applied research opportunities, and the collaborative environment that encourages problem-solving and innovation.

The university ��. commitment to preparing students for immediate career success is evident in its polytechnic approach and strong industry connections. Being part of a diverse and driven student body has also broadened my perspectives and enhanced my leadership skills.

Which student organizations or activities were you a part of, and which scholarships did you receive?

I have been actively involved in several leadership and community-oriented activities, and social justice and campus equity activities at �� and CVTC, including the Black History Month Gala, Civil Rights Pilgrimage, National Student Leadership Diversity Convention, Student Association at CVTC and the Diversity Resources Club. I volunteer at Central Lutheran Church Festivals and community events in Chippewa Falls.

I’ve received several scholarships, including the George C. and Gladys S. Decker Memorial Graduate Scholarship, the T Ingram Graduate Scholarship and the �� Transfer Student Scholarship. I was also awarded the Advanced Opportunity Grant from the Universities of Wisconsin.

Zaid Abdullah conducts research in the Supply Chain Study Room.

What challenges did you face in earning your degree and how did you overcome them?

Moving to a new country, adapting to a new language and culture, and balancing full-time work with rigorous coursework were significant challenges. Additionally, I experienced unexpected financial setbacks when I lost eligibility for some scholarships after transferring to the graduate program.

I overcame these challenges through perseverance, effective time management and a commitment to continuous learning. My dedication to both professional and academic growth allowed me to remain focused and resilient.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

I am most proud of successfully navigating an international transition while excelling academically and professionally. Becoming a U.S. citizen is a personal milestone that reflects my journey and perseverance. Completing my M.S. degree, achieving certifications such as the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and making a measurable impact on my professional roles are achievements I hold dearly.

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Automation Displays procurement engineer aims to deliver measurable value to organizations Zaid Abdullah, Fall Commencement 2025

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Hospitality students apply learning to plan, coordinate STEMM Student Expo, Dec. 11

goersab — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 13:45:00 +0000

Hospitality students apply learning to plan, coordinate STEMM Student Expo, Dec. 11goersab November 24, 2025

Signature event, open to the public, to showcase nearly 100 research projects

Abbey Goers

One of the �� . College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Management ��. biggest events of the year is being planned and executed by hospitality students.

The STEMM Student Expo will showcase more than 250 students’ research in nearly 100 projects across a dozen fields of study. The expo, held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, in the Memorial Student Center Great Hall and ballrooms, will welcome more than 200 guests, including faculty, staff, community members and industry professionals. It is open to the public.

The event has been running for more than 12 years, but this is the first year it is being coordinated by university students in Professor Kristal Gerdes’ Hospitality Convention/Meeting Planning class.

The STEMM Student Expo on Dec. 11, will showcase more than 250 students’ research in nearly 100 projects across a dozen fields of study.

“This is the hands-on, minds-on aspect of the polytechnic experience,” said Gerdes, chair of the hospitality and technology innovation department. “The students get to plan and execute the whole event. It ��. an opportunity for them to build their resumes and is a springboard for their careers. With this being the first year we’re taking charge of the expo, it ��. a learning process. But we’re creating a base for future expos, and with the hospitality students’ help, the event will grow.”

U.S.A.R., United Solutions of Automation and Robotics, will have a Stokes Robotics’ SHEP Quadruped Robot on exhibit at the STEMM Student Expo. The lightweight robotic dog highlights the capabilities and possibilities of different quadruped technologies. U.S.A.R is a Wisconsin-based distributor of a variety of automation and robotic solutions.

And don’t forget to “Find the Pineapple.” A hospitality-style scavenger hunt will be held during the expo, inviting guests to look for hidden pineapples – a symbol of welcome – throughout the Great Hall and ballrooms.

Professor Kristal Gerdes’ Hospitality Convention/Meeting Planning class meets with event staff at the Memorial Student Center Great Hall, where the STEMM Student Expo will be held.

Contact the STEMM Student Expo team with any questions: STEMM-Expo@uwstout.edu.

The STEMM Student Expo is one of a number of signature events taking place in early December, including Stout Game Expo on Wednesday, Dec. 10, and the School of Art and Design Senior Show on Friday, Dec. 12.

Creating a better customer experience

Leisure and hospitality is one of the fastest-growing sectors of Wisconsin ��. economy, with more than 32,000 jobs created between 2022 and 2032, according to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. “Within that, events is the fastest growing sector in the hospitality industry,” Gerdes added.

Gerdes’ course is a required, foundational class for hotel, restaurant and tourism management majors. With Forbes luxury management training fused into every hospitality course, students gain skills they can apply anywhere, from five-star resorts to local tourism to university events, sports centers, music festivals, museums and more.

“It ��. all about creating a better customer experience,” said Gerdes, who has more than 10 years of experience in the event industry. “I can help walk the students through the experience. I let them know that it ��. OK for them to stumble, but I’ll never let them fall. They’re gaining these event-planning experiences now, so that they know what will work and what won’t work in event planning in their careers.”

Hospitality Convention/Meeting Planning students learn event planning strategies to coordinate the STEMM Student Expo.

The hospitality students selected event-planning groups to work in, based on their interests, including design and theme of the event, evaluation and reflection, layout and logistics, marketing and promotion, poster management, registration and program coordination. Each group was given a to-do list, planned their approach and adjusted as needed.

In meetings with CSTEMM Executive Assistant Jacob Anderson and staff at the Memorial Student Center, the class discussed various needs for the event, including technology, catering and room layout, all while maintaining a budget for the event.

HRTM juniors Ian Bryant and Brooke Kugel were members of the marketing and promotions group. They were tasked with designing and producing promotional materials aligned with the event theme and university branding; coordinating event-related social media content and details with campus news and digital bulletins; and updating the expo website.

Faculty, staff, community members and industry professionals are invited to talk with students about their research and demonstrations.

“Our job is to sell the event. While we’re highlighting current students showcasing their research at the expo, we’re also trying to attract prospective students – new students – to encourage them to participate in the expo in the future,” said Bryant, of Rochester, Minnesota, who has a business administration minor. In high school, Bryant catered events with Powers Ventures.

Along the lines of attracting new students, Kugel added that “Professor Jay Jones always reminds us to show what hospitality students can do. There are a lot of undeclared majors at ��. Showing those students what we, as hospitality students, are doing is a positive way to bring students into our HRTM program.”

Kugel, of DePere, is also majoring in real estate property management and has an events management minor. She already has several years of experience in event planning. This past summer, she worked at Horseshoe Bay Golf Club in Door County, planning and hosting wine dinners, golf outings, weddings and more. For the past eight summers, she ��. worked on events at Door County Jellystone Park. She also plans events and serves as treasurer and service vice president for Gamma Sigma Sigma, the national service sorority.

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Students collaborate across degrees in community project for The Neighbors

goersab — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 13:30:00 +0000

Students collaborate across degrees in community project for The Neighbors goersab November 20, 2025

Construction, interior design, technology education majors build garden products for senior living home residents

Abbey Goers

In a cross-disciplinary collaboration, four groups of students in Lecturer James Bunkelman ��. Light Construction Methods class are designing and building two raised garden beds, one raised tool bench and one raised tool holder for a senior living home.

The project is part of a service-learning activity, as their final products will be delivered to The Neighbors of Dunn County for the residents to use and enjoy in their garden.

The project was launched last summer during a new STEAM camp for high school students. The Blueprint for Success: Construction Career Camp, led by Assistant Professor Janelle Skoyen Hestekin, blended practical construction skills with community engagement, thanks to a partnership with Junior Achievement and The Neighbors.

Madelyn Pretzer, Tanner Schauf, Brandy Wolf and Erika Rivolta build a tool bench for The Neighbors

The high school students built prototypes of the garden beds and benches after meeting with The Neighbors residents to learn about their needs, laying the groundwork for the �� students’ projects.

When Bunkelman ��. university students took the project on, “I told them to have fun. I told them what they were to build, but not how to do it. They have free rein in their research, designs and building processes.”

A group of four students is completing an ADA-compliant raised tool bench, built with treated two-by-four pine boards and capable of holding 200 pounds, they estimate. The cross-disciplinary team is:

Madelyn Pretzer, interior design, of Rochester, Minnesota
Erika Rivolta, interior design, of Comerio, Italy
Tanner Schauf, technology education, of Sparta
Brandy Wolf, construction management, of Le Sueur, Minnesota

Brandy Wolf nails pine boards in place on the tool bench frame

Wolf enjoys smaller-scale construction projects and has experience in the building process. “Applying the skills we’ve learned in class to turn our design into reality for a client is very fulfilling,” she said.

The team believes it ��. extremely important to know a client ��. wants or needs before beginning a design. They designed the tool bench to be ADA compliant, considering the needs of The Neighbors residents. The height is designed so that a person in a wheelchair may sit at the bench comfortably.

Madelyn Pretzer cuts a two-by-four pine board on a band saw.

“We’re all bringing our own skills into the project,” Pretzer said. “Erika and I have design experience. Next semester, we have a Residential and Senior Living class. This project gives us an early perspective on senior living needs and their possible preferences.”

As a future teacher, Schauf believes collaboration and community involvement are essential. “For teachers, there ��. an expectation to be a pillar in the community,” he said. “I hope to connect my classroom with the programs like this at Stout through similar projects that bridge the gap between technology education and field experiences.”

Tanner Schauf cuts a two-by-four pine board on a band saw.

Social responsibility is a fundamental component of the Stout Core curriculum, a series of foundational classes that enhance students’ applied learning while building the soft skills in high demand by employers.

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American Marketing Association student team wins second place in AcuRite competition

goersab — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 19:46:30 +0000

American Marketing Association student team wins second place in AcuRite competitiongoersab November 5, 2025

AMA Regional conference, competition prepare students for real-world marketing, sales careers

Abbey Goers

Two students from �� . American Marketing Association and Business Sales Team earned second place out of 17 colleges in the AcuRite Digital Marketing Strategy Competition at the 18th annual AMA Regional Conference on Oct. 17, at UW-Whitewater.

Gerishom Muholeza, a computer science senior from St. Paul, and Gavyn Schacher, a business administration junior from Minneapolis, were joined by 10 of their �� peers at the conference, themed Beyond the Brand: Marketing for the Next Generation.

Gerishom Muholeza and Gavyn Schacher / Pam Vaver

The event brought together students from varying degree programs — including business, sales and marketing, computer science, game design and development, and digital marketing technology — to compete in person, virtually and in hybrid formats. Participants showcased their skills in multiple competitions in marketing strategy, digital marketing, marketing design, perfect pitch and sales scenarios.

“The competition was a fun and thought-provoking assignment that made us think strategically, creatively and logically about how to market to different client personas,” Schacher said. “Our presentation featured a descriptive and in-depth look into each client persona and answered the question, ‘How can we, as AcuRite, sell our products through different approaches and channels?’ We are very grateful for the opportunity to compete and showcase our skills.”

AcuRite is a leading brand for home weather stations, smart environmental monitoring and connected devices.

�� . American Marketing Association and Business Sales Team members / Pam Vaver

Schacher, a transfer student, loves �� . hands-on approach to learning. “I do feel that has helped me get ready for this, my first competition,” he said. “I enjoyed the exposure to other schools and professional organizations, and I look forward to going back next year.”

Schacher enjoys learning all the different aspects of what goes into a business. “Learning an overall view, I feel like this has made me a better critical thinker, and it has given me actionable steps to accomplish when I am in the workforce,” he said.

Business Senior Lecturer Pam Vaver, AMA advisor, said, “Each student showcased exceptional professionalism, creativity and teamwork throughout the competition, demonstrating �� . strength in preparing students for real-world marketing and sales careers. Gerishom and Gavyn ��. outstanding performance highlights the dedication and talent of �� students. Congratulations to all the students for their hard work, achievement and continued excellence in representing �� at the regional level.”

Additional students who participated were Haley Abrahams, Jordyn Chapman, Melanie Cops, Ella Jarchow, Hannah LaGesse, Sadie Liebelt, Laina Marcott, Helena Slabber, Peyton Wayne and Owen Whitney.

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AMA Regional conference, competition prepare students for real-world marketing, sales careers Gerishom Muholeza and Gavyn Schacher

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�� completes $7.4M lab renovation, improving space for cutting-edge equipment and learning

giffeyt — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0000

�� completes $7.4M lab renovation, improving space for cutting-edge equipment and learninggiffeyt October 14, 2025

Changes to Jarvis Tech labs boost engineering, construction programs

Tom Giffey

The final phase of a $7.4 million renovation project has brought crucial upgrades to two of �� . biggest and busiest labs.

The revamp of the Construction Lab, the Woods Lab and adjacent portions of Jarvis Hall Technology Wing was completed over the summer, with the labs fully upgraded by the beginning of the fall semester.

Among the most visible changes are the addition of new windows and large overhead doors that open onto the well-traveled hallway between the labs, a frequent route for students and visitors alike passing through the connected Jarvis Science, Jarvis Tech, Micheels and the Applied Arts buildings.

“The Jarvis Tech renovations will significantly improve the functioning of some of the largest labs on the campus through upgrades in the HVAC system, increased visibility and access to the labs through the addition of roll-up doors and more efficient use of valuable space through reconfiguring lab layouts,” said Daniel Freedman, dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Management.

Windows to education: $7.4M labs renovation project sheds light on mechanical, plastics engineering

Two large engineering labs and one of the busiest building corridors at �� have fresh, new looks this fall with students back on camp

Phase 1 of the project was completed during the summer of 2024, and encompassed about 17,000 square feet of Jarvis Tech, including the Plastics Engineering Lab and the Engineering Technology Research and Development Lab. The recently completed Phase 2 included nearly 25,000 square feet. The two-phase project was funded as part of the 2021-23 state capital budget.

As Wisconsin ��. ��, �� emphasizes applied learning and provides three times more labs than classrooms. In many cases, as with the newly renovated labs, classroom and lab space are next to each other so that lectures and hands-on applications are seamlessly intertwined.

Chad Schlough, project manager for Facilities Management, said one of the major components of the latest renovation was replacing two air handling units, creating more efficiency and adding greater control. A new dust-collection system and three new exhaust fans in the Construction Lab, which is used extensively by students in the B.S. construction management program, also will improve air quality and environmental safety.

Both labs also received new paint, while in the Woods Lab worn-out parquet flooring made way for polished concrete. Other nearby rooms — including the Construction Conference Room — received upgrades such as new flooring, ceilings and paint.

Students collaborate in the newly renovated Woods Lab.

Other elements of the project included:

The completion of a sprinkler system that now encompasses the entire first floor of Jarvis Tech.

Upgrades to the fire alarm notification system.

Renovations to existing restrooms and the addition of a single-occupant restroom.

The addition of a secure store area for surveying equipment used in site engineering classes.

“This renovation is another step forward for �� . applied learning environment,” said Senior Facilities Officer Justin Utpadel. “The upgrades not only enhance safety and functionality but also increase the visibility and adaptability of our instructional spaces.”

New hallway windows, like these at the Plastics Engineering Lab, have been added to multiple labs in Jarvis Hall Technology Wing in the past two years.

The renovations also created space for two new pieces of state-of-the-art machinery purchased through other funding sources. A newly renovated room will house a $1 million Amatrol Smart Factory Enterprise system donated by the Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation. This fully integrated automated manufacturing system includes a manufacturing line composed of processes such as inventory control, inspection, sorting, assembly, testing, CNC machining and storage, all linked by ethernet or wireless communications. The system is designed to showcase how all these technologies are integrated in a modern production system and to educate students in how to build and maintain such systems.

Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation donation transforms labs with advanced manufacturing equipment

Machinery for automated manufacturing, 3D printing and more will impact thousands of students’ polytechnic experiences

This equipment, which will be installed in a room adjacent to the Woods Lab, was made possible by a $3.1 million donation from the Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation, which was announced in August. The Foundation was established by Ronald Wanek, founder and chairman of Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC, and his wife, Joyce. Their son, Todd Wanek, is a 1988 �� alum and president and CEO of the company.  

Similarly, the renovation made space in the Construction Lab for a 3D concrete printer that will be installed later this academic year. That device was purchased through a $647,000 grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. announced last spring for �� . Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Artificial Intelligence (CAM-AI).

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Changes to Jarvis Tech labs boost engineering, construction programs Two students in Wood Lab

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Co-op Q&A: William Boyce, Weidner Apartment Homes, Fitchburg

goersab — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Co-op Q&A: William Boyce, Weidner Apartment Homes, Fitchburggoersab October 7, 2025

‘Stout ��. REPM major is unique and gave me a head start.’

Serving as a seasonal leasing specialist at The Vue at Pinnacle Park and The Lafayette in Fitchburg, �� real estate property management senior William Boyce completed his summer cooperative experience with Weidner Apartment Homes.

“What I love most about the REPM major is the variety in real estate, as well as the core concepts that are found in every avenue of the field. I know various professionals who have pivoted in different directions in real estate without having to restart their career ladder,” Boyce said.

The Lafayette is a luxury property with two buildings, less than five years old, and offers modern finishes. The Vue is comprised of five buildings and has more traditional home colors. The residences are both located near nature reserves, Boyce said.

Weidner Apartment Homes, headquartered in Kirkland, Washington, was recognized on the National Multi-Family Housing Council ��. 2024 50 Largest Apartment Owners List as the 12th largest private owner of apartments in the U.S. It represents more than 315 multifamily residential communities, with more than 72,000 units in 13 states and Canada.

Boyce, of DeForest, plans to graduate this December and is interested in a career in real estate appraisal. As a Senior Airman in the Wisconsin Air National Guard, he is set to begin Airman Leadership School in 2026, which he’ll complete before beginning his real estate career.

“�� . Veteran Services has made utilizing my benefits a breeze. I have heard of other airmen at different schools having little to no help putting their benefits to use. Thanks to Veteran Services, I will be able to graduate debt- and stress-free,” said Boyce, adding, “Brian Hackner, military education benefits coordinator, has been a huge help.”

How do you hope to make an impact in your field?

I hope to impact the real estate property management field by changing the stigma of property managers. Most people only recall their worst memories of moving out of a property they lived in. I hope to create some lasting memories.

The “Love Notes” program at Weidner is a good example of this and is something I would like to take with me. They send notes to their residents to show how much they appreciate them, and they help inspire community.

What were your main roles as an intern with Weidner Apartment Homes?

My main role was helping in the leasing office. I completed tours, answered phones, and responded to emails from prospects and residents.

We started our day with an hour of cleaning the property. This would include wiping down windows, vacuuming common areas and inspecting vacant units. Before tours or when inspecting vacant units, we would bring a “sparkle kit” to clean the place up. A little difference in cleanliness can go a long way.

Every day is different in property management. I had random projects, like removing a dozen tires from the property to Discount Tire for proper waste disposal. I also repainted the number lines for an underground parking garage! I had a lot of fun doing that.

What did you enjoy most about your internship?

I enjoy charts and graphs. Our community director had all the reports for the property finances. Through these numbers, you can see everything that is happening at the property. The documents would go over accounts receivable, accounts payable, vacancies and more.

The regional directors have already forecasted the year based on current market trends and past years. My classes in Investment Analysis and ICT Problem Solving were beneficial for this. I was already familiar with all the terminology thanks to my property management classes. We had practiced the calculations that would go into these numbers as well.

What was challenging about your internship, and how did you face those challenges?

The most challenging part of my internship was learning the way Weidner Apartment Homes’ properties operate. This was my third internship in the industry, and it made me realize that every property – even if part of a larger company – is managed it in its own way.

I worked at The Heights in Menomonie as a community assistant. This role was heavily based around community events, marketing and cleaning. At Guardian Property Management, I was an administrative assistant, where I responded to resident questions and processed lease renewals.

How will your courses and experiences at Stout help you make an impact in your career?

I know for certain that my courses and experiences at Stout will help me make an impact in the industry. Stout ��. REPM major is unique and gave me a head start compared to a new hire unfamiliar with the industry.

By far, my favorite class has been Real Estate Appraisal. I really liked the way the class was structured, and it was a lot more numbers-based. Learning the different approaches to valuation and practicing them in and out of the classroom was exciting for me.

That said, I have loved all of my Property Management classes. In Real Estate Ethics, we had a debate at the end of the semester, and during our Capstone, we toured a property in the Twin Cities to create a management plan for.

Career Services’ annual First Destination Report declared that 100% of recent REPM graduates are employed or furthering their education within six months of graduation, and have an average starting salary of $58,000. �� . real estate property management program is one of only a handful of its kind in the U.S.

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Co-op Q&A: Madelyn King, Four Seasons, Minneapolis

‘I’m thankful to the REPM program for helping shape my career path and giving me the tools to succeed in this internship and beyond.’

October 7, 2025

Co-op Q&A: William Boyce, Weidner Apartment Homes, Fitchburg

‘Stout ��. REPM major is unique and gave me a head start.’

October 7, 2025

Chancellor ��. Award: Dean Weidner

'My long-term investment into the program at �� reflects my confidence in the curriculum that is being taught to students.'

August 27, 2025

‘Stout ��. REPM major is unique and gave me a head start.’ William Boyce at Weidner Apartment Homes

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