Fox Valley Technical College's location in Wautoma helping high school students

Fox Valley Technical College's Wautoma Regional Center held its official opening ceremony on Tuesday afternoon.

For the past 40 years, classes were held downtown but the college recently relocated next door to Wautoma High School making it easier for local high school students to take college-level courses.

Although the new building has been open since the beginning of September, staff says the new courses and location has attracted more high schools from throughout the area.

“This new space is incredibly important for what we are doing for our students,” added Jessie Lloyd, a welding instructor at Fox Valley Tech. “Having equipment that is efficient and reliable takes a huge burden off the teachers,” Lloyd added.

Currently, 40 high school students are enrolled in their programs. By the time they graduate high school, students will have earned a certificate in their anticipated line of work, and enough college credits that will allow them to receive an associate degree earlier than their peers.

“I have the opportunity to learn a lot about Welding,” shared Jeffrey Pomahac, Wautoma High School student. “I will hopefully earn my welding degree very fast after graduation.”

These courses are open to all high school students.