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Learning & Education in Central Wisconsin

Unlock Your Potential in the Center

Central Wisconsin’s workforce is supported by an education system that’s focused on delivering the skills local employers need. Learning in the Center gives you access to:

  • Career-focused training programs and incentives in key job fields
  • Postsecondary degree programs with traditional and flexible online courses
  • Community efforts to connect skilled workers with in-demand jobs

“What I enjoy most about living in Central Wisconsin is the people. There are countless amazing resources, activities, small businesses, and beautiful natural surroundings in the area that make it an even more incredible place to live. During my time working at the Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation, I had the opportunity to create an internal website for employees. This site served as a resource and asset to the company as it educated employees about what the Foundation does, and how they can get involved. After launching this project, Delta Dental saw considerable increases in employee volunteerism and other Foundation programs. It was very rewarding to firsthand see the results of a project I developed and led. ”

Nathaniel Taylor

Digital Marketing Program Graduate, Mid-State Technical College

THE CROSSROADS OF WISCONSIN

At the Center of Your Educational Success

EXPERIENCED MENTORS

Central Wisconsin’s educational system is focused on preparing students for long-term success. Our colleges and K-12 school systems offer STEM training, apprenticeships and postsecondary education in many in-demand industries.

INVEST IN YOURSELF

The Center’s low cost of living makes it easier to balance work, school and finances. Because your money goes further, you can focus on your studies, instead of grinding to make ends meet.

EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT

It’s one thing to tell you about degree programs, but it’s another thing to get you across the finish line. Our schools will help you reach your educational goals as efficiently as possible.

Colleges

Colleges

Lakeland University-Wisconsin Rapids Center

Providing Multiple Pathways to Success

Lakeland University’s Wisconsin Rapids Center accommodates many students’ goals, from undergraduate and graduate degree programs to career advancement. With courses available in Wisconsin Rapids, Stevens Point, Marshfield and Wausau, this university makes it easy to learn new skills wherever you are.

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Futureproofing Tomorrow’s Businesses

Mid-State Technical College is a key part of Wisconsin’s technical college network. Construction of its Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering Technology and Apprenticeship (AMETA) Center was recently completed as it looks to train the next generation of manufacturers in Industry 4.0 technology.

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The Northwood’s Center for Higher Education

Located on the peaceful shores of Lake Julia in Rhinelander, Nicolet College provides a path to success for all students. They offer both occupational training and a liberal arts education designed to meet your lifestyle and career goals.

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Earn Your Degree on Your Time

North Central Technical College offers associate degrees, technical diplomas and certificates in many in-demand career fields. You can choose between the flexibility of online courses to meet your busy schedule or in-person programs at several campuses across the Center.

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Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders

With an enrollment exceeding 8,600, UW-Stevens Point is ideal for students who want a traditional college experience and one-on-one time with professors. Its faculty is dedicated to helping the next generation of workers grow intellectually, culturally and professionally.

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“It is such a privilege to be a part of an amazing educational community where synergies between our 30+ public and private school districts our 3 technical colleges and our public and private universities have created seamless lifelong pathways for engaging careers. From career exploration to doctoral programs local, guided opportunities serve our citizens, businesses and communities.”

Bobbi Damrow,

Ed.D., Vice President, Workforce Development & Community Relations, Mid-State Technical College

K-12 Schools

K-12 Schools

Adams-Friendship Area School District

Developing Real-World Skillsets

Home of the Green Devils, the Adams-Friendship Area School District is the largest in Adams County with an enrollment of more than 1,300 students. In addition to in-person and online coursework, students can learn construction, manufacturing and business skills before graduation.

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Exploring Interests as Potential Careers

With enrollment at more than 3,000, the Merrill Area Public School District prepares students with many different interests for life after graduation. In addition to in-person and online courses, students can learn design and engineering in the district’s FAB Lab and connect with local businesses for career opportunities.

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Gaining Real-Life Work Experience

The Wausau School District is the largest in the Center with an enrollment of just under 8,000 students. The school system develops individual academic career plans and works with community partners to ensure they graduate with meaningful experience through certifications, apprenticeships and internships.

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Going Beyond Grades and Graduation

The Stevens Point Area Public School District is a top educator in Portage County with an enrollment of just under 7,000 students. The school system’s Career Center encourages students to think beyond graduation with opportunities for apprenticeships, job shadowing, college planning and scholarships.

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Planning for Tomorrow’s Careers Today

Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools is one of the largest districts in Wood County with an enrollment of more than 4,800 students. For academic and career planning, they’ve implemented Xello, an online tool that helps students plan their life after graduation in trades, college, entrepreneurship or other training.

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Innovative Career-Oriented Courses

The School District of Marshfield is a high-performing education system that provides a comprehensive curriculum with programs and support services that are focused on maximizing student potential. The district offers career and technical education programs to prepare students for postsecondary education and career success.

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New career paths and jobs are emerging at a momentous pace.

At D.C. Everest School District, is preparing students for 21st century career opportunities by helping them develop the academic, career and life skills they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market.

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Improve student progress academically and socially

The Mosinee School District encompasses 248 miles, including 9 different municipalities.  The district borders on the school districts of Wausau, Marathon, Edgar, Stratford, Auburndale, Stevens Point, Rosholt, Wittenberg-Birnamwood, Marshfield, and DC Everest.

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STORIES FROM THE CENTER

Putting Down Roots in Central Wisconsin

The job at Wenzel’s Farm brought me to Central Wisconsin almost 20 years ago, and the job and area have been very good to me. I love living here because of the beauty of the area, the variety of the four seasons and because people are willing to lend a helping hand whenever you need it.”

Mark Vieth

Marshfield

Most of the families in our east side (Wausau) neighborhood have children around our kids’ ages. It’s a very diverse neighborhood, and that’s what I love about it. It’s quiet, friendly, peaceful, private and safe. It’s the kind of neighborhood where people wave ‘hi’ as they pass on the road.”

Soua and Moua Thao

Central Wisconsin Residents

Central Wisconsin: a cherished haven. Good schools, friendly people, cheese, abundant boating spots, fresh produce, affordable living, less traffic and endless trails. A place where my heart found home, amidst nature's gifts and warm embrace.”

Guatam Malik

Stevens Point

Seeing the great people we have living here, raising their families, how much they care and are willing to help in any way they can is not something every community has. I love the small-town vibes and having the ability to know a lot of people to help make a difference in our community today.”

Megan Steckelberg

Adams

I enjoy life in Central Wisconsin for its mix of rural charm and nearby city living. Owning a business here is truly special, with a sense of small-town pride and the incredible impact a business can have on its communities.”

Trisha Ferkey,

Owner, Champion’s AutoWash

Since we were deciding between Madison and the Twin Cities, I was skeptical when my wife suggested that we move back to Central Wisconsin. I never spend time in traffic, and I have more time to spend with family and friends. There’s also a variety of affordable activities in the area and within a few hours of driving, including two great lakes, the Northwoods, the Driftless Area, & several larger cities.”

Sam Wessel

Wausau Resident

Central Wisconsin offers its residents an abundance of recreational opportunities within a short distance, making it a wonderful place to play year-round”

Kyle Kearns

Plover Resident