Welding instructor receives regional higher education award

Sarah Fischer, an instructor for the Welding technical diploma program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC), was recently recognized for her impactful work by the Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance (NEWMA).

Fischer received the Higher Education Award as part of NEWMA's 15th Annual Excellence in Manufacturing/K-12 Partnerships Awards. The awards spotlight best practices of manufacturing and education collaborations throughout the region.

The recognition stems from Fischer's work with N.E.W. School of Innovation, a public charter school operated by the Green Bay Area Public School (GBAPS) District and housed on the NWTC Green Bay campus.

"Sarah has developed a dual-credit program in welding that works perfectly for all of our kids," said Jason Johnson, N.E.W. School of Innovation principal, who nominated Fischer for the award. "The number of students that sign up for welding has grown every year, and it's all due to what they have been told by other students. Sarah recognizes their potential, and she sets them up for success."

For Fischer, the award reflects the positive impact of the partnership between NWTC and N.E.W. School.

"To me, the award means that we as a college are making a difference in high school students' lives, and the partnership is showing how it is valid and an important part in shaping the future students," she said.

Teaching and training the next generation

Fischer has been part of the welding industry for 20 years. Her experience includes building and welding cranes, mining equipment, wind towers, and much more. She is also a certified welding inspector. She continues to work part time for a welding fabrication shop while teaching at NWTC.

"I believe my situation gives me a great respect for the manufacturing workforce and what it really takes to excel in the industry," she said. "This allows me to help teach and train the next generation of welders. We will always need this industry, so to be a part of keeping it staffed is rewarding."

Building confidence

At N.E.W. School, many students who once doubted their path to high school graduation are now looking beyond it, speaking of professional certifications and starting a career rather than a job, according to Johnson.

"The students who take dual credit welding classes have developed a confidence in themselves and their ability to handle difficult work," he said. "They are not only excited to go to her class, but they have started talking about how they will use what they've learned once they graduate. They have taken an active interest in career fairs, job shadows, and even begun interviewing with local employers."

"The N.E.W. School of Innovation is very grateful that we and our students get to work with such a dedicated and positive educator," he said. "She is truly deserving of this award."