WTCS graduates earn high marks from employers, deliver strong workforce outcomes
Wisconsin employers continue to express overwhelming confidence in graduates of the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS), citing strong skills, workforce readiness and educational quality, according to the newly released 2026 WTCS Employer Satisfaction Report. Employers reported that 97% were satisfied with technical college graduates' education, 96% would hire a WTCS graduate again and 92% would recommend a technical college graduate to other employers. Additionally, 97% of employers said their local technical college is important to the overall success of their business.
The results reinforce findings from the WTCS 2025 Graduate Outcomes Report, which showed that 92% of graduates in the labor force were employed within six months of graduation, with 81% working in careers directly related to their training. Associate degree graduates also reported a median annual salary of just over $60,000 within six months of graduation, demonstrating the strong return on investment a technical college education provides.
"Employers consistently tell us that WTCS graduates arrive prepared to contribute immediately," said WTCS President Layla Merrifield. "When businesses say they would hire our graduates again and recommend them to others, it validates the quality of education delivered by Wisconsin's 16 technical colleges and the strong partnerships we maintain with industry across the state."
The employer survey found that businesses value the skills and preparation WTCS graduates bring to the workplace, reflecting the System's close collaboration with employers in developing and delivering more than 500 industry-aligned programs. These partnerships help ensure students graduate with the technical knowledge, workplace competencies and hands-on experience employers need.
WTCS graduates continue to make a significant impact on Wisconsin's workforce and economy. In addition to high employment rates, 93% of graduates remain in Wisconsin after completing their education, helping employers fill critical workforce needs in healthcare, manufacturing, information technology, skilled trades and other high-demand fields.
The employer satisfaction survey is conducted every four years and measures employer perceptions of WTCS graduates' skills, education and preparedness for employment. Combined with strong graduate outcomes, the results demonstrate the value Wisconsin technical colleges deliver to both students and employers.
For more information and to view the full Employer Satisfaction and Graduate Outcomes Reports, visit WTCSystem.edu/publications.
About the Wisconsin Technical College System
The Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) offers more than 500 programs awarding two-year associate degrees, one- and two-year technical diplomas, short-term technical diplomas, certificates and related education for apprenticeships. The System is the major provider of customized instruction and technical assistance for Wisconsin employers. With nearly 300,000 people enrolling in a technical college each year, it is the largest higher education system in the state.
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