Friday, April 17, 2026
CVTC student among ambassadors to be honored during WTCS awards banquet
Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) Student Ambassador, Paige Komanec, and 15 other students, one from each of Wisconsin’s technical colleges, met in Wisconsin Dells this week for leadership development activities. They have been named 2026 Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Student Ambassadors and were honored with scholarships at the statewide awards banquet.
The WTCS Student Ambassador Program recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and service while highlighting the vital role Wisconsin’s technical colleges play in preparing students for in‑demand careers and strengthening communities statewide.
Following the event, the students will continue to serve as ambassadors for the Wisconsin Technical College System throughout the coming year, representing technical education through outreach, public engagement and storytelling.
State Sen. Jesse James, R-Altoona, who is a CVTC and WTCS ambassador alumnus, was a guest speaker. Others scheduled to attend were Rep. Vincent Miresse, D-Stevens Point, State Treasurer John Leiber, and representatives from event sponsor Baird: Debby Brunett and Jordan Masnica.
Local Student Spotlight: Paige Komanec, Chippewa Valley Technical College
Paige Komanec, of Amery, is a graphic design and digital marketing student at Chippewa Valley Technical College. After graduating high school with honors, she wanted to find a college that aligned with her goals, values and the career she envisioned for herself, she said.
“I researched multiple colleges, scoured the internet, and went on countless tours. That journey led me to CVTC, and I fell in love,” Komanec said. “What stood out most was the college’s hands-on approach to learning and its focus on building real-life, applicable skills. I wasn’t just looking for a degree, I was looking for an experience that would prepare me for a career I would spend the rest of my life doing.”
In addition to serving as CVTC’s student ambassador and working for the College’s recruitment department, Komanec is making history by taking part in the first technical college in Wisconsin to have a competitive cheer team.
“I am excited to represent CVTC through my work on campus as a student ambassador, helping more prospective students find their path,” she said. “Supporting a college that aligns with my passions makes this journey even more rewarding.”
