Madison College Students Prepare for Global Work Environment

Wisconsin’s Technical Colleges are expanding opportunities for international education to support a growing number of Wisconsin companies doing business worldwide. As companies expand operations and distribute products globally, they are looking for more graduates with international competencies.

According to local industry representatives, graduates of any business program should demonstrate the following international competencies: political and legal affairs, language and communication, intercultural communication, economics and trade, geography, current events and study or travel abroad.

However, the vision for international education goes farther than just business programs. Technical college staff are researching curriculum mapping of international education content in all departments of the colleges.

“Colleges are making a wide variety of offerings available, from on-campus events, study abroad opportunities, bringing in international students to our campuses and student exchanges,” said Kelly Holtmeier, chair of the WTCS International Education Committee. “Instructors bring global views into their classrooms through their own travel experiences and those of their students, media reports and other print resources, as well as through practical applications or projects which encourage students to research other parts of the world,” Holtmeier continued.

Many Wisconsin Technical Colleges offer short-term or long-term study abroad opportunities with programs focused on health care, art, design, language, business, renewable energy and sustainable development. Madison College has always been, and will continue to be a leader and has instituted many new opportunities.

Madison College International Education Week Schedule:

Tuesday, November 15:
Hot Topics in Immigration Law
Discuss hot topics in immigration law and ask questions to a panel of attorneys from the Madison area.
12:30 - 2 p.m.
Room 142 (Truax)

El Encuentro
A performance by a dance group from Ecuador
11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.
DTEC Cafeteria

Wednesday, November 16:
Study Abroad Fair
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
North Hallway (Truax)

Thursday, November 17:
Third Annual Global Showcase
11:30 a.m. to  2 p.m., Mitby Theater
Madison College’s very own celebration of culture - international fashion show, dancing, music and ethnic food samples!

One way colleges bring the world to Wisconsin is by welcoming foreign students.

On Monday, November 14, Dr. Geoff Bradshaw, Director of International Education at Madison College will be presenting as a guest lecturer at Gateway Technical College on the theme of "Internationalizing Community and Technical College Education."

International Education Week is November 14-18. The U.S. Department of Education uses this week to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange. Wisconsin’s Technical Colleges are preparing students for a global future through many international education opportunities. Graduates will be ready for the international business world through greater exposure to people, ideas and cultures from around the world. International education prepares U.S. citizens to live, work, and compete in the global economy.