LA CROSSE, Wis., April 21, 2026 - Western Technical College has named Dawson Olson of Independence, Wisconsin, as its 2026–27 Student Ambassador, recognizing his leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to student success. As Student Ambassador, Olson will serve as an official spokesperson for Western and represent the College in the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) State Ambassador Program.
In this role, Olson will engage with prospective students, community leaders, and campus partners to highlight the value of technical education and its impact on the workforce and local communities. He will also collaborate with fellow student ambassadors across the state, representing Western at statewide events and initiatives.
Olson is pursuing degrees in IT Cybersecurity and Network Administration and Business Management, with plans to graduate in April 2027. He chose Western for its hands-on learning environment, smaller class sizes, and strong connections to career opportunities.
“Western is a place where you can truly feel supported and get involved right away,” Olson said. “The instructors know you, the class sizes help you succeed, and there are so many communities to join that you can quickly find where you belong.”
Highly involved on campus, Olson serves as a Community Assistant in Western’s residence halls, supporting fellow students and fostering a positive living environment. He is also President of the Vocal Cavaliers, Treasurer of the Snowmobile Club, and has participated in intramural volleyball. In addition, Olson volunteers with Operation River Watch, a community initiative focused on preventing alcohol-related tragedies along the Mississippi River.
Those who work closely with Olson describe him as a natural leader and effective communicator. One instructor noted that he is “well spoken, friendly, and already involved in several clubs and organizations on campus,” highlighting his ability to break down complex topics into terms others can easily understand.
Integrity is a guiding value in Olson’s leadership approach. “Integrity means doing the right thing even when no one is watching,” he said. “It challenges me to be honest, reliable, and consistent in the way I treat others.”
“Dawson embodies Western and how we would like all of our students to be out in the world,” said Tage Bushman, IT instructor at Western Technical College. “He is kind, generous, quick to learn, and a natural people person.”
Following graduation, Olson plans to build a career in cybersecurity and business, applying both his technical expertise and leadership skills in a field that values precision, accountability, and collaboration.