Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Eau Claire Energy Cooperative receives WTCS award
Officials from the Wisconsin Technical College System, Chippewa Valley Technical College and Eau Claire Energy Cooperative stand for a group photo after the Cooperative received the WTCS Board’s 2025 Futuremaker Partner Award, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025.
Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) and the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Board honored Eau Claire Energy Cooperative (ECEC) with the Futuremaker Partner Award on Tuesday during the college system’s annual board meeting, which was held at CVTC this year.
The award is state-wide recognition of local businesses and organizations that collaborate with one of Wisconsin’s technical colleges.
CVTC and Eau Claire Energy Cooperative have worked closely together for years on projects like an electric vehicle experience to educate the public about current electric vehicle trends. The College also offered a week-long overview of electrical power distribution to ECEC support staff so they could better understand the job of their organization’s line workers.
“The WTCS Board is proud to honor Eau Claire Energy Cooperative with the Futuremaker Partner Award,” said Sara Rogers, WTCS Board President. “Eau Claire Energy Cooperative’s strong partnership with Chippewa Valley Technical College exemplifies the power of collaboration in workforce development.”
By working closely with CVTC to align educational programming with industry needs, the Cooperative helps ensure a steady pipeline of skilled professionals, from line workers to engineers and beyond, Rogers said.
“Their involvement with youth ambassadors and consistent field trips enables students a first-hand look at the opportunities available in their industry,” she said. “This partnership not only strengthens the cooperative but also enhances the vitality of the community it serves.”
