University of Wisconsin-Platteville students have again shown their prowess in industrial studies and metal casting, as four students were awarded scholarships at the Foundry Educational Foundation's College Industry Conference in November. The event, held Nov. 16 and 17 in Chicago, Illinois, was attended by UW-Platteville students, professors and Chancellor Tammy Evetovich and featured industry leaders nationwide.
The students awarded scholarships include Tim Highum, Cole Olson, Garret Starkman and Luca Wagner. These scholarships are just one example of the long-standing partnership between UW-Platteville and the Foundry Educational Foundation, which has been ongoing since 1969. The partnership has helped facilitate and pay for an endowed professor position at UW-Platteville.
"Being certified by the Foundry Educational Foundation shows the university has a demonstrated dedication to having curriculum that produces students that can be successful in the industry. And we've been very good at tailoring our program to meet those industry needs," said Dr. Kyle Metzloff, UW-Platteville's Foundry Educational Foundation Endowed Professor who teaches in the Industrial Studies Department.
Metzloff added that the university receives between $12,000 and $15,000 in scholarships yearly, allowing some students to graduate debt-free. But the benefits of the partnership go beyond just scholarships and professorships. Metzloff said the certification shows companies that UW-Platteville produces graduates who will excel in the industry, making them highly sought after by potential employers. The partnership with the Foundry Educational Foundation also provides students with valuable networking opportunities.
"Events like this expose students to industry leaders, and most leave with multiple competitive offers," Metzloff noted. "The students are surprised by how sought after they are when they go to the conference. Students really see how recognized and respected the UW-Platteville brand is compared to some of the other schools."
"It was evident the UW-Platteville program, under the direction of Dr. Metzloff, is well-respected by our industry partners that were in attendance," added Chancellor Evetovich.
Chancellor Evetovich noted that the accreditation is good for not only the university but the region as a whole. "Wisconsin has a really strong manufacturing base, and the certification and support of the Foundry Educational Foundation helps UW-Platteville build a workforce to support it. So it really is a win-win," she said.
Overall, the partnership between UW-Platteville and the Foundry Educational Foundation provides numerous benefits to students, faculty and industry leaders. As Dr. Metzloff said, "The program is a great value for our students."
To learn more about UW-Platteville's Industrial Studies program, visit www.uwplatt.edu/department/industrial-studies