Women of Steel support GED programming at NWTC Marinette

MARINETTE – Women of Steel (WOS) — a community-focused group from Kimberly-Clark’s Marinette Mill — has made a monetary donation to support GED programming at the Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) Marinette Campus, reinforcing their commitment to expanding the educational opportunity in the community.

The donation was inspired by a deeply personal community-centered mission.

“Everyone has a past,” shared Debby Spangenberg, representative and chair of the WOS planning committee.

“Sometimes, life circumstances prevent someone from finishing high school. Without a diploma or GED, many individuals are unable to qualify for better paying jobs… for some, the cost alone can be a barrier. We wanted to help remove that barrier so more have that chance to succeed.”

WOS is an official program of the United Steelworkers (USW) union represented by Kimberly-Clark of Marinette. The WOS group has been an active and dedicated presence in the community for the past eight years with an organized presence of 10 members serving.

Several members of the Marinette WOS group have shared their own experiences related to educational barriers, which helped shape the decision to invest in the NWTC GED Program.

The goal is to ensure adults in the community have access to affordable, supportive pathways toward completing their degree and/or advancing their careers.

NWTC Marinette campus GED Program provides adult learners with the academic preparation, resources and guidance needed to earn their high school equivalency degree — opening doors to employment, opportunities, technical college programming and long-term career success.

The program is designed to meet students where they are, offering flexible learning options and individualized support to help them succeed.

Cindy Bailey, NWTC’s K12 pathways and rural community impact director, emphasized the significance of community partnerships in expanding educational access.

“When individuals earn their GED, it strengthens not only their future, but our entire community,” Bailey said.

“Partnerships like this ensure that access to education and career advancement remains within reach for those who are ready to take that next step.”

For those ready to complete their high school equivalency and explore new career possibilities, support is available.

To learn more about GED programming at NWTC Marinette, visit nwtc.edu/marinette or call (715) 735-9361 to get started.