What is your name, and where did you grow up?
My name is Amber Williams, and I am originally from DeForest.
What is your role at Blackhawk Technical College?
Instructional Design Specialist for Curriculum and Assessment (WIDS and CIM).
What was your journey to this role?
I previously worked for 12 years in K-12 education as a Spanish teacher and recently completed my master’s degree in Instructional Design and Learning Technology (IDLT) at UW-Whitewater.
Where did you go to school? What did you study?
I went to UW-Green Bay for my undergraduate degree, majoring in Spanish with a minor in Education.
Is there something that drew you to this career?
I have always loved learning and wanted to be involved in education. I started off as an educator, but when COVID hit, I began helping fellow staff with technology training and integration. From there, I developed a new passion and interest, which brought me to enroll in my master’s program.
What motivated you to apply for this position at Blackhawk?
Finding the job listing seemed like a perfect fit to stay within education and help fellow faculty. I also have experience developing curriculum and assessments both at a personal level and for the IDLT program in college, blending the two components of the position.
What do you like most about working at Blackhawk?
So far, I’m enjoying the flexibility the position provides and getting to know so many new and welcoming individuals.
What is something Blackhawk offers its students that you feel other colleges do not? Technical colleges, in general, are great at providing the best pathway for students when a four-year degree need not apply. They offer flexibility in learning modality, types of assessments for proof of learning, and types of degrees and certifications. Also, the ease and ability to transfer credits to other universities provide many options for continuing education.
What is your life like outside of work? Family? Community involvement? Adorable pets?
Our family consists of my husband, son, and dog, and we love to spend time outside as much as possible (outside of winter). We love to boat and go to our family’s cottage! Personally, I love to travel and have been to five different international countries to experience new cultures, foods, and experiences.
On your educational journey, have you had to overcome any obstacles or challenges?
I’ve had several obstacles along my journey—paying for college completely on my own, traveling to a foreign country to complete a teaching experience alone, and having to pause my education due to financial strain. This has only made me appreciate and value the end result even more to get to where I am today.
What is your favorite TV show?
I have a few, including “Gilmore Girls,” “Supernatural” and “Parks and Recreation!”
What’s your ultimate comfort food?
Definitely taco dip.
What is your personal pizza order?
Usually sausage, mushrooms, and onions, but I also love chicken bacon and ranch pizzas.
If you could learn any language, which one would you choose?
Italian!
What is your dream vacation destination?
Italy, of course!