Search | Menu 
A new statewide survey shows growing confidence in Wisconsin’s technical colleges, including Madison College, with two-thirds of Wisconsin residents holding a favorable opinion of the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) and its colleges.
The findings underscore the critical role technical colleges play in providing affordable, high-quality education that meets the needs of students and employers across the state.
Key statewide highlights include:
• 66% of Wisconsin residents have a favorable opinion of WTCS, up from 52% in 2022.
• 76% believe the state benefits from the education technical colleges provide, up from 71% in 2022.
• 78% agree that higher education is a significant investment, and students and families must consider long-term costs when choosing a college.
• 76% agree that not all students benefit from a four-year college education, up from 71% in 2022.
• 64% see technical colleges as a strong option for students planning to transfer to a four-year public college or university, up from 60% in 2022.
Expanding opportunities
Madison College continues to expand student opportunities with new programs and facilities, creating more pathways to support Wisconsin’s skilled workforce.
In September, Madison College opened the Dental Assistant and Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Clinic to address workforce needs. The new 30,000-square-foot Construction & Remodeling Facility at Truax North Campus enhances hands-on training. The Early Learning Campus at Goodman South Campus opens this month, expanding child care and early childhood educator training.
“Madison College is a proven investment for students and a vital asset for our district,” Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne said. “It’s encouraging to see statewide confidence in the value of technical colleges, and these results reinforce the responsibility we have to support students and meet employers’ growing demand for skilled, professional workers. We look forward to building on this momentum to strengthen communities and help people build better lives.”
The survey highlights affordability, transfer opportunities and strong recommendations from others as key drivers of WTCS’s positive reputation. Residents overwhelmingly associate technical colleges with real-world value, job outcomes and affordability.
Madison College remains dedicated to expanding access, forging strong employer partnerships, and empowering every student to succeed. As a leader in Wisconsin’s technical education, Madison College is committed to building a workforce that drives growth and opportunity. Together, Wisconsin technical colleges will continue to shape a thriving future for the state and its communities.
