The unique delivery model combines online courses with hands-on lab experiences at satellite campuses throughout the state.
For many working adults, the dream of earning a college degree can seem out of reach. Balancing a full-time job, family responsibilities and the financial burden of higher education creates a significant barrier. The University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s Engineering Partnerships (UW-PEP) is changing that narrative by providing a flexible, innovative path to engineering degrees. Through this model, students like Mitchell Russell earn mechanical, industrial, or electrical engineering degrees while continuing to work and live near their homes.
“I chose PEP because I grew up near one of these satellite campuses and knew I wanted to stay local,” said Russell, design engineer, Pierce Manufacturing. “The flexibility of the program was key to balancing work, life and school.”
The university’s offering stands out due to its unique delivery model, which combines online courses with hands-on lab experiences at satellite campuses throughout the state. Designed for working adults who might not have the time or ability to relocate, the program makes it possible to earn a degree at your own pace, without sacrificing professional or personal commitments.
A Path to Career Success
Russell’s journey through UW-PEP is an inspiring example of how the right educational opportunity can lead to a successful career. After enrolling, Russell worked full-time for a company in Appleton, Wisconsin, that designs custom fire apparatus while pursuing his degree in mechanical engineering. Russell’s on-the-job experience gave him a head start, allowing him to apply what he was learning in real-time. The curriculum design helped him continue his professional development while obtaining the skills and knowledge needed for career advancement.
“As a new engineer, I stood out because I had already familiarized myself with the company’s unique nuances and job-specific procedures,” explained Russell. “Many PEP students, like me, come in with prior experience—whether as year-round interns or from full-time roles at companies poised to hire them. This gives the company a significant advantage by reducing on-boarding time, allowing new graduates to dive straight into solving real problems.”
His ability to integrate his academic learning with practical experience not only benefited his company but also accelerated his transition into his role as a full-time engineer.
Flexibility with Life Changes
The flexibility of UW-PEP became especially crucial for Russell as his life underwent significant changes during his academic journey. Balancing the demands of school with the joys and challenges of family life, Russell navigated his way through the birth of two children, adjusting his academic load and work schedule as needed.
“During my third year, I went from being a full-time student and part-time worker to a full-time employee and part-time student to better support my growing family,” he recalled. “The PEP staff was incredibly supportive, and without their help, I may not have completed my degree.”
This kind of flexibility is a hallmark of UW-PEP, which allows students to tailor their education to their unique needs and circumstances.
Bridging the Gap Between Education and Industry
What sets UW-PEP apart is its seamless integration with the workforce. Russell’s story highlights how the program provides immediate job benefits and long-term career stability.
“The PEP program is about more than just earning a degree,” he said. “It’s about connecting students with companies that value their skills and experience and setting them up for success in the real world.”
Since earning his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in 2024, Russell has been promoted to his current engineering position and is pursuing additional certifications to continue growing in his field, with a focus on Pumper Body design and CAD systems.
A Lasting Impact
The success of UW-PEP graduates like Russell serves as a powerful reminder of how education can transform lives and careers. The blend of flexibility, real-world application and academic rigor offers a model for the future of higher education—one that bridges the gap between the classroom and the workplace. For students seeking to advance their careers without sacrificing their professional or personal lives, UW-PEP program at UW-Platteville offers a proven path to success that empowers students to take control of the education and their lives.
Witten by Christine Bellport
Link to original story: https://www.uwplatt.edu/news/bridging-education-and-industry-uw-plattevilles-innovative-offering-working-families