Since Richard Barnhouse, Ph.D., became Waukesha County Technical College president and CEO in 2021, he has expanded offerings at WCTC in artificial intelligence, including the AI data specialist program – the first two-year named AI degree offered in the state – and an applied AI lab.
Under Barnhouse’s leadership, the college began the WCTC Excellerate initiative in the fall of 2022. The program 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.
In 2023, WCTC started the associate of arts and associate of science degree programs, allowing students to transfer credits to four-year colleges and universities and begin their bachelor’s degree at junior-level standing.
“Barnhouse has also prioritized building relationships with local business and industry partners by exploring new collaborations and opportunities and ensuring the college offers the education and training needed for an evolving workforce,” said Andy Palen, WCTC’s chief external relations and marketing officer.
