The following article was written by the staff at Lakeshore College.
At Lakeshore College, the value of technical education can be measured in more than dollars and enrollment numbers. It is reflected in the course of opportunity taken by the graduate who lands a first job, the employer that finds the skilled worker it needs, the apprentice who builds a career, and the business that grows because it has the talent to do so.
That impact is happening every day across the Lakeshore region due to the mission of Lakeshore College.
A recent Center for Research on the Wisconsin Economy (CROWE) report challenged Wisconsin’s investment in technical colleges. At Lakeshore College, the results tell a different story by providing access to innovative learning. The College’s work is focused on driving a simple goal: creating opportunities for students while helping businesses and communities thrive.
“Lakeshore College exists to connect people with meaningful career opportunities and to help our region meet its workforce needs,” said Lakeshore College President Dr. Paul Carlsen. “The numbers are important, but what they represent is even more important—students earning credentials, graduates starting careers, and employers finding the talent they need. That’s the impact of technical education.”
During the 2025-26 academic year, 8,044 students enrolled at Lakeshore College, pursuing education and training in programs ranging from health sciences and public safety to advanced manufacturing, transportation, business, and human services.
The College awarded credentials to 633 graduates during the 2024-25 academic year. Those graduates are finding success after leaving Lakeshore, with 91% employed within six months of graduation and 76% working in Wisconsin. The median salary for Lakeshore associate degree graduates is $62,395.
Just as importantly, 96% of graduates report being satisfied or very satisfied with their Lakeshore education.
“These outcomes show us that students are getting more than a credential,” Carlsen said. “They’re gaining the knowledge, hands-on experience, and connections they need to take their next step. And when those graduates stay and work in Wisconsin, everyone benefits.”
Local Needs. Local Decisions.
One of the strengths of Wisconsin’s technical college system is its local connection.
Lakeshore College is guided by the District Board of Trustees made up of nine community members, two of whom are elected officials and three of whom are alumni, who understand the people, businesses and industries that make up the College’s district. That local perspective assists Lakeshore in being responsive to community needs, continually evaluating how education is delivered and resources are used, and making decisions based on regional economic impact.
To discover more about Lakeshore College and its programs, visit lakeshore.edu.
