Joe Langer, ’74, honored with statewide distinguished alumni award

For the second consecutive year, a Northeast Wisconsin Technical College alumnus has been recognized at the state level by the Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association (DBA) for outstanding service, leadership, and impact.

Joe Langer, 1974 graduate of NWTC's Data Processing program, received the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest honor presented by the DBA. The annual award recognizes one graduate across Wisconsin's technical colleges whose professional achievements, community involvement, and lifelong commitment to learning exemplify the mission of technical education.

"It is truly an honor to be recognized as someone who represents the values of a technical college education," Langer said. "From my career accomplishments, lifelong learning, and service to the community, I am proud to be selected at the state level to symbolize what can be achieved with a degree from Wisconsin's technical colleges."

Langer is long-time supporter of the College. He was an active member of the NWTC Educational Foundation Board for more than 20 years, helping to establish the Student Emergency Fund, grow scholarship giving, and secure a major donation for the Transportation Center.

"Now more than ever, technical college programs respond to the jobs needed in the current marketplace," he said. "There is a positive correlation between the technical college graduates and a thriving, growing community."

Langer accepted the award earlier this month at the Wisconsin Technical College DBA Fall Meeting, where statewide leaders gathered to celebrate excellence across Wisconsin's technical college system.