Distinguished Alumni award 2008
2008 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient
Richard Westpfahl
1967 Printing
Dean, Western Technical College
Westpfahl graduated with honors from Coleman Technical Institute's (now known as Western) Printing program in 1967. After graduation, he was offered a job at the college running the first "copy center" on campus. While working full-time, he was also enrolled in the Printing and Publishing program, and in 1972, he transferred to UW-Stout to complete his bachelor's degree. From there he worked within the publishing industry and as a high school graphic arts instructor until he returned to Western in 1985. Since then, he has held numerous positions at the college, including instructor, quality assurance coordinator, and associate dean. He is currently the dean of the graphics, transportation, and manufacturing programs within the Industrial Technologies Division.
Westpfahl's on-campus contributions have been numerous. He was instrumental in coordinating the first-ever Industrial Technologies Alumni Reunion in 2007, bringing enthusiasm and graduates to campus. He has been involved in several building projects throughout the district, including the new Auto/Diesel Technology Center, the Mauston and Tomah Campus expansions, and the Coleman Study Group. He has also served as a mentor and advisor to students, student teachers, and new faculty throughout his career.
