(WAUSAU, Wis.) – Northcentral Technical College (NTC) is pleased to announce several new industry-driven programs that begin during the fall 2025 semester. NTC students can select from six new degrees that have been created in response to growing job market needs and feedback from local employers.

Applications are now being accepted at NTC for:

  • Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Advanced Technical Certificate
  • Advocacy & Social Justice Technical Diploma
  • Foundations of Artificial Intelligence Technical Diploma
  • Wood Industry: Primary Manufacturing Certificate
  • Wood Industry: Secondary Manufacturing Certificate
  • Early Childhood Educator Apprenticeship

For more information or to apply to one of NTC’s new programs, visit www.ntc.edu or contact Admissions at 715.803.1645.

Overview of New Programs

Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Advanced Technical Certificate

This program trains Dental Assistants to perform expanded duties outside of work of a traditional Dental Assistant under the direction and supervision of a Dentist. Students will learn how to place and finish restorative material, pack cord, perform coronal polish, remove sutures and dressings, apply dental fluoride and sealants, take impressions, remove cement from crowns, make temporizations, adjust dentures and other removable oral appliances. The program prepares students for EFDA Wisconsin state certification.

Potential occupations include: Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary.

Advocacy & Social Justice Technical Diploma

This program equips learners with the knowledge and skills to advocate for justice within communities. Coursework covers community organizing, advocacy and activism from sociological and legal perspectives. Become an effective advocate for change and make a positive impact on society.

Potential occupations include: Intake Specialist, Correctional Client Assistant, Shelter/Crisis Housing Advocate, Youth Development Specialist, Youth Advocate and Victim Services Advocate.

Foundations of Artificial Intelligence Technical Diploma

This program offers an in-depth introduction to artificial intelligence, with a focus on its applications, ethical implications and role in business. Gain a solid grounding in the principles and practical uses of AI technology through courses in AI fundamentals, business applications and ethical considerations.

Potential occupations include: AI Specialist, AI Technologist and IT Coordinator.

Wood Industry: Primary Manufacturing Certificate

This program is designed for future and current leaders in the primary wood manufacturing industry who are interested in management, taking over an existing business or starting their own company. Learners explore the entire primary industry of converting logs to intermediary products. Focus areas include lumber, veneer and composite manufacturing, safe and efficient sawmill operations and the science of wood.

This program is taught at NTC’s Wood Technology Center of Excellence in Antigo, WI.

Potential occupations include: Manufacturing Manager, Operations Director and Supervisor.

Wood Industry: Secondary Manufacturing Certificate

This program is designed for current and future innovators in the secondary wood manufacturing industry interested in running commercial woodworking equipment. Learners explore the entire scope of converting rough lumber into finished products including wood properties, milling, tooling, adhesives and finishing.

This program is taught at NTC’s Wood Technology Center of Excellence in Antigo, WI.

Potential occupations include: Milling Operator, Tooling Technician and Finish Technician.

Early Childhood Educator Apprenticeship

This apprenticeship combines hands-on fieldwork with related academic work. Graduates become responsible for the care and education of children in the birth-to-eight-years age range. Create and maintain safe and healthy play environments, guide behavior, plan and implement learning experiences and work cooperatively with staff and families.

Apprentices must be employed by a business or organization that participates in an apprenticeship program and has a completed Department of Workforce Development (DWD) contract. For questions about this apprenticeship or the application process, please contact NTC’s Recruitment team at recruitment@ntc.edu.

Potential occupations include: Early Childhood Educator.