Greg Phillips, Dean of Manufacturing, Apprenticeship, Training and Technology (MATT) at Blackhawk Technical College, was recognized as Educator of the Year at Wednesday's Forward Janesville Annual Luncheon.
This honor, given to an individual or group who has actively encouraged partnerships between the business and education communities, comes on the heels of another major recognition for Phillips, who was inducted into the Wisconsin Apprenticeship Hall of Fame at the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Biennial Apprenticeship Conference held in February.
“It takes invested individuals to build a strong community. I thank you all for your support, your opportunities and partnerships and the privilege to be involved in the ongoing economic and educational development of the Janesville community. Without all of you, I don’t get this award,” Phillips said at the luncheon on Wednesday.
After graduating from Parker High School, Phillips joined the Marine Corps, where he trained in diesel and gasoline engine troubleshooting and repair. Afterward, he worked as a maintenance technician at Simmons Bedding Company before transitioning into education as a construction electrical apprentice instructor at Blackhawk Technical College in 2010. In 2020, Dr. Tracy Pierner, President of Blackhawk, appointed Phillips as the Dean of the MATT Division.
Throughout his career, Phillips has been a key architect of vital partnerships between industry, community, and K-12 institutions, ensuring the alignment of training programs and educational resources essential for workforce development in Rock and Green counties. His work has been foundational in creating pathways to success for students and addressing the ongoing needs of employers in the region.
Phillips, who plans to retire in June, was also named the Milton Area Chamber of Commerce’s Educator of the Year in March 2024.
"Greg’s dedication to workforce education and community partnership has been nothing short of transformative. His impact will be felt long after his retirement, and this recognition is a testament to his incredible legacy,” Pierner said.