College Advisor

Western Technical College is a preferred employer in the 7 Rivers Region and is committed to providing a safe and respectful workplace for all co‑workers. As an open‑access institution, we proudly serve learners from all walks of life, recognizing that diverse backgrounds and lived experiences enrich our community and strengthen our mission. We are committed to creating a sense of belonging where everyone feels empowered to be themselves and supported in their personal and professional growth.

This means actively identifying and removing barriers to opportunity and providing pathways to social and economic advancement. Western is deeply connected to the communities we serve, and we believe in the power of education to drive positive change. We seek individuals who are passionate about teaching and learning, dedicated to student success, and eager to collaborate in building a more vibrant, equitable community.

If you share these values and are ready to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to explore this opportunity at Western.

Provide developmental advising, guidance, and support for enrolled students with the goal of retention and graduation from their respective programs. Works within a comprehensive retention system designed around a student‑centered relationship owner model. Assesses individual students’ plans (academic and non‑academic) and determines appropriate interventions to address barriers to their educational success.

The caseload for this position will cover roughly 300 students: 35% Human Services, 30% Automotive & Diesel, 30% IT‑Cyber Security & IT‑Computer Support and 7% Agribusiness. Position will be housed mainly on the main La Crosse Campus, where the majority of their caseload is located, with weekly hours at the Automotive Center & Diesel and Heavy Equipment Center as well.

1. Maintain and uphold the College values of Learning, Excellence, Accountability, Diversity, Student Success, Teamwork, Integrity, and Respect. Regular attendance is required.

2. Perform office functions which may include, but are not limited to: respond to internal/external customers and staff; create and modify documents, records, and reports using College standard software; maintain hard copy and/or electronic filing system; monitor inventory and budget information; schedule, coordinate, and prepare materials for meetings and/or appointments.

3. Complete all required College training and be responsible for maintaining the skills necessary to complete the essential functions of the position as defined by the department.

4. Student Success is the cornerstone of Western’s culture and the college may assign employees as needed to other areas or additional duties to foster this success.

5. Developmental Advising – Supporting Action/Task May Include:

• Work in collaboration with the deans, division staff, faculty, and student services staff to promote, facilitate and ensure seamless, student‑centered service, and individual student success
• Determine appropriate academic or non‑academic interventions based on individual student presenting issue
• Assist students in resolving any holds or institutional barriers that are impacting their success
• Work collaboratively with Western staff to implement and maintain a comprehensive relationship owner model designed to enhance retention for all students
• Engage in personal coaching sessions and refer to the appropriate on‑campus and external resources.
• Utilize the established coaching model practices with all student interactions.
• Interpret and provide rationale for college policies, procedures, and requirements
• Discuss and reinforce linkages and relationships between instruction program and occupation/career

6. Data Collection and Analyses – Supporting Action/Task May Include:

• Utilize the CRM student retention system to track all facets of student success
• Determine student needs for services and maintain a specified overall retention rate for all students on caseload
• Analyze retention and data to identify trends and potential solutions
• Compile data and generate reports and prepare documentation for individual student records

7. Caseload…