For Hub City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — Mid-State Technical College has been named 2016 Innovative Business of the Year by the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes investments in new processes, a commitment to new products and services, and a culture of innovation. Mid-State President Sue Budjac accepted the award on behalf of the college at the Chamber’s 69th Annual Meeting and Awards ceremony on Feb. 9 in Wisconsin Rapids.

Speaking to the value of Mid-State Technical College to the community, President of the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Melissa Reichert noted, “We are consistently impressed with the continued investment in equipment, people, and programs that make Mid-State Technical College graduates top candidates for area businesses upon graduation.”

The award acknowledged Mid-State’s work with 26 advisory committees representing 147 area businesses to develop innovative programs aligned to workforce training needs and educate in-demand graduates. The award also highlights Mid-State’s comprehensive investments in technology to support instruction and communications.

“We are honored to receive this award for our ongoing investments to ensure Mid-State meets the needs of the employers and communities we serve” said Budjac. “The right programs, facilities, and technology are fundamental to our success, and we are equally proud of our college leaders for spearheading innovative, grant-funded projects aimed at addressing the challenges of ever-changing workforce needs.”

Mid-State’s recent grant-funded projects include new approaches to experiential learning using human patient simulators in the nursing and emergency medical services programs as well as the recent launch of the mobile manufacturing lab, which is designed to deliver a modern manufacturing experience and stimulate curiosity about career possibilities in high-tech manufacturing.