FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 30, 2025
Green Bay, Wis. — UW–Green Bay has broken its previous record of 85,883 learners in Continuing Education and Workforce Training, setting a new all-time high of 101,617 learners—a number so large it nearly rivals the 107,000 inhabitants of Green Bay itself! When that many individuals commit to furthering their education, records are bound to be broken.
This achievement reflects the University’s unwavering belief that every person is a lifelong learner and that education must evolve to meet the diverse, dynamic needs of individuals and the region. Whether it’s re-skilling for a new career, earning a credential, or learning for the joy of it, UW–Green Bay is leading the way.
“We’ve proven we can adapt to meet our mission,” said Chancellor Mike Alexander. “We’re not just about degrees—we’re about delivering credentials and experiences that meet people where they are. We’re proud to be the second-largest provider of continuing education and workforce training in Wisconsin, and we celebrate each of the 101,617 learners who have taken that next step with us and are committed to never stop learning.”
From July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, UW–Green Bay offered learning opportunities ranging from workshops and certificates to conferences and customized training—designed to build skills, spark curiosity, and strengthen communities. This surge represents an 18% increase from fiscal year 2024 and marks the largest program growth since 2017, fueled by deep partnerships with local, regional and statewide organizations.
“Our creative, responsive approach ensures that both learners and employers stay ahead in a rapidly changing world,” said Jess Lambrecht, Executive Officer of the Division of Continuing Education and Workforce Training. “We’re building programs that are practical, purposeful and sometimes just plain fun. It’s about keeping people vibrant—in their careers and in their lives.”
Continuing education and workforce training in areas such as career enhancement, workforce solutions and life enrichment allow the University to engage learners from a broad spectrum of the population. Career enhancement includes continuing education for municipal clerks and treasurers, state-licensed health and human service professionals and training for assisted living caregivers.
In the area of workforce solutions, noncredit certificate programs are offered to upskill, reskill and provide new skills to individuals as they progress or evolve in their careers. Topics range from emerging women’s leadership and AI to fundraising management, customer service, human resource management and more. Customized training solutions tailored to an organization’s unique needs and strategic objectives are also available upon request.
For those who truly never want to stop learning, the University operates the Lifelong Learning Institute, a volunteer-led program that offers nearly 200 different classes each spring and fall to retirees.
For more information about UW–Green Bay’s Division of Continuing Education and Workforce Training, visit the website or contact Jessica Lambrecht, Executive Officer, at lambreje@uwgb.edu or (920) 465-2222.
Note: A learner is defined as an individual who has had at least one learning experience with UW–Green Bay in a given year.
About UW-Green Bay
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is a school of resilient problem solvers who dare to reach higher with the power of education that ignites growth and answers the biggest challenges. Serving 11,519 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students as well as 101,617 continuing education learners annually, UW-Green Bay offers 200 academic degrees, programs, and certificates. With campuses in Green Bay, Manitowoc and Sheboygan and a theatre in Marinette, the University’s access mission welcomes all students who want to learn, from every corner of the world. Championing bold thinking since opening its doors in 1965, it is a university on the rise – Wisconsin’s fastest growing UW. For more information, visit www.uwgb.edu.
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