A pilot program through the University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s School of Business is taking students out of the classroom and into Panama, where they apply their academic knowledge in real-world community development projects. This first-of-its-kind initiative brings both undergraduate and graduate students to rural areas in need of business consultation, fostering sustainable growth in underserved communities.
"The first time I visited Panama, it was life-changing," said Dr. Caryn Stanley, UW-Platteville business professor. "I know that many of our students had a similar experience. Consulting in a rural area truly highlighted how much we take for granted in terms of daily access to resources."
The nine students and two faculty members came from diverse fields of study, including graduate students pursuing a master’s in organizational change leadership to undergraduates working toward degrees in marketing, professional studies and integrated supply chain management. As part of the program, students broke into teams and collaborated directly with a farmer, an artisan and a business to help improve their operations and expand their market reach.
"As part of the bachelor’s to master's pathway, I took this class to earn credit toward my master's degree,” said Laura Sturtz, a senior from Darlington, Wisconsin, earning a degree in professional studies. “This is the first study abroad opportunity ever offered to graduate students. It was also my first time traveling abroad, so being able to do this through UW-Platteville made the experience even better!"
This holistic approach to consulting, carried out through Kambia—a platform that offers international community development opportunities for students—has proven to be an invaluable learning experience.
“Kambia serves as a bridge, connecting those who want to help with those in need,” explained Cielo Lasso, business coordinator at Kambia. “Some things must be experienced firsthand to truly understand their value, and Kambia provides that opportunity that benefits both students and the community.”
One of the main goals is to help rural businesses expand into new avenues, such as agritourism, while adopting more efficient organizational practices. During the pilot trip in January, one group of students collaborated with a local farmer in the rural community of Membrillo. They assisted in developing plans to attract visitors and promoting sustainable farming practices.
“They understood my ideas and helped bring my vision to life.” said Demetrio Martínez, owner, Finca La Bendición. “They worked so hard to organize a project that is now beginning to take shape in the way we hoped and envisioned. We’re now working on aspects to satisfy both locals and tourists, while also making connections with international organizations. I’ve already received calls, and local organizations are reaching out for visits. We’re moving forward with this long-awaited project, and it’s truly extraordinary."
Through this collaborative effort, the team created a foundation for long-term business expansion, while building a bridge between both cultures.
“It was amazing to ‘talk shop’ with a farmer from another country, whose crops and environment are completely different, yet many of the tools and concepts were the same,” said Andrea McDermott, a foundry engineer at A.Y. McDonald Manufacturing in Dubuque, Iowa, who is working towards her master’s degree in organizational change leadership. “This trip not only gave me a more global perspective on how different countries are impacted by various issues, but also highlighted how a strong US economy positively affects the global economy.”
Another team of UW-Platteville students worked with a rural bank, Caja de Membrillo, assisting with their financial documents and reorganizing their files. They also integrated new technologies into the bank's operations, making processes more streamlined and efficient, all while developing important people skills.
"Working in HR means engaging with a diverse group of people and situations every day,” explained Sturtz. “Quick problem-solving is key, but the ability to empathize and connect on a personal level makes all the difference."
The program’s impact extended beyond finance and farming, as students also assisted a local artisan in rebranding his business.
"Our team had the privilege of working with a talented local artisan, whose unique soapstone carvings reflect the rich culture of his homeland,” said Agii Kerwin, a junior from Neenah, Wisconsin, studying integrated supply chain management. “By focusing on understanding his business needs, we were able to support him in areas such as creating a new logo, maintaining essential financial records and helping to expand his business, ensuring his craftsmanship reaches a wider audience."
That artist explained that the students gave him the courage and the tools to send his business in a whole new direction.
"The program was a great experience," said Melquiades Rodriguez, owner of Artes Melqui. "I learned a lot about managing my business finances, and thanks to the UW-Platteville team, I was able to set up a sales stand for my crafts at La Iguana Resort. I wouldn’t have had the courage to approach the owner without their support."
It’s true that students gained practical, hands-on knowledge as they contributed to the entrepreneurial success of these small businesses, but they also advanced their own personal growth and global perspectives through cultural immersion activities.
"Before the trip, I had no idea the impact I could make,” exclaimed Kerwin. “If you'd told me how much hands-on experience and real-world change I'd gain, I wouldn't have believed you. But now, I see the power of what we're learning—not just for ourselves, but for the people we can help along the way."
The UW-Platteville partnership with Kambia not only empowers students to apply their business expertise but also drives economic growth in these communities, one project at a time.
Kambia video featuring UW-Platteville students: https://youtu.be/dzOATWPugwQ?si=1IhmP1aMMD8NrR1B