Since Richard Barnhouse, Ph.D., joined Waukesha County Technical College in January 2021 he has worked to develop relationships with business and industry leaders.Â
Barnhouse regularly tours area companies and meets with employers to learn more about their business needs and how WCTC can help provide them with qualified, skilled workers. He made more than 35 visits to area manufacturing companies in his first year.
Additionally, he meets with K-12 leaders to develop initiatives to encourage high school students to begin their college experience while still in high school and get a jump start on their post-secondary education.Â
Under his leadership, the college began the WCTC Excelerate initiative in the fall of 2022. This allows qualified high school juniors and seniors ages 16 and older to apply to a full college program, earn dual credit and possibly an associate degree technical diploma or certificate before they graduate from high school.
Beyond WCTC, Barnhouse is involved in leadership roles in higher education, community and professional organizations.Â
