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Improving job outlook, one degree at a time
(Herald Times Reporter)CLEVELAND -- Kevin Wehausen saw a promotion slip through his fingers once and vowed never to let it happen again.
The 35-year-old Two Rivers man quickly learned that further education was the key.
"It gave me different opportunities to go the direction I wanted to go, which for now is management," he said.
Wehausen will participate in Lakeshore Technical College's mid-year commencement Saturday as the recipient of associate's degrees in technical studies-journeyworker and supervisory management. It isn't the first time he has donned a cap and gown, and it probably won't be the last. The occasion marks the completion of Wehausen's third apprenticeship -- industrial electrician -- from the school. He also carries millwright and machinist journeyman cards.
He has become a perpetual student since he enrolled at LTC in 1992. He is considering going for a bachelor's degree in science through an online program with Western Kentucky University and his current employer, Weyerhaeuser.
"I like the challenge," Wehausen said. "I want to keep learning."
The move will open more doors to the next level of management, he said.
Wehausen said his associate's degrees have started to pay off. A year after he enrolled in the supervisory management program, he earned a management position at Weyerhaeuser. As he progressed with his studies, he was promoted again this summer to maintenance manager.
He was encouraged to further his education when he worked at Kohler Company after graduating from Reedsville High School in 1988. When an older man with more experience was promoted over him, he vowed to make sure it never happened again.
Wehausen then worked for several area manufacturers, including Mirro Company, Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry and Weston Specialty and Machine, before going to Weyerhaeuser more than six years ago. In some cases, he changed jobs because of a lack of advancement.
Working first shift at Weyerhaeuser, Wehausen was able to leave work a little early to go to Cleveland for class a couple of nights a week. He said he liked the idea of going to school while working, and his employer was supportive.
When Wehausen walks across the stage Saturday, his wife and three children, along with his parents from Tennessee, will be in attendance to cheer on the proud graduate.
"It's something no one can take away from you," he said of his degrees. "Once you earn it, it's yours."
Amy Weaver: 920-686-2968 or aweaver@htrnews.com
Commencement
bWhat: LTC's mid-year commencement
bWhen: Saturday, 2 p.m. Lakeshore Building Multipurpose Room, Cleveland
bFacts: 182 graduates are expected to attend out of 272 receiving degrees or diplomas.
bSpeakers: The keynote is Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Secretary Roberta Gassman. Student speakers are Carolyn Bratz and Matthew Clopp.
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