Outstanding Alumni Award

Each year, this distinguished honor is presented to a deserving alumnus who has completed a Fox Valley Technical College associate degree, technical diploma or apprentice program. Nominees must have achieved a high level within their chosen field of endeavor, which is exemplified by having attained increasingly responsible positions in their company, organization or community.

Outstanding Alumni Award Recipient

Ben Rehme, journeyman tool and die maker at Ariens Company, has been named the recipient of the Fox Valley Technical College 2023 Outstanding Alumni Award.

Rehme earned an associate degree in industrial welding in 2012 and has earned the award for demonstrating the value of technical education through career advancement, community service, continued personal and educational growth, and support of the Wisconsin Technical College System.

“In high school, I liked technical education classes but I didn’t necessarily like the format of school and didn’t know if I wanted to complete a certificate, technical diploma or full degree,” Ben recounts. “But once I was in the program at FVTC, my views on school changed and I fell in love with learning.”

After working in the welding field for a number of years, Ben returned to FVTC as a tool and die apprentice in the Machine Tool program. He credits both degrees with helping him tremendously as an employee of Ariens Co. “I started with the company after high school and I know I have a lot of opportunities in the future to grow professionally with the company,” Ben explains. “My diverse background and multiple degrees have helped me become a valuable asset for the company and allowed me to work with a large variety of people and divisions throughout Ariens in a leadership role.”

Not one to stop learning, Ben found himself back at FVTC in 2018 where he’s been taking firefighting classes while volunteering with the Brillion Fire Department. He is also an active member and volunteer at Brillion Trinity Lutheran Church and School where he helps with major projects, facility maintenance and fundraising. Ben also teaches students about fire prevention and safety along with helping the STEM program at Brillion Public Schools. “I feel it is important to give back to the community as I had lots of great opportunities provided to me by others when I was growing up in Brillion. This is also part of the culture working here at the Ariens Company.”

And it’s possible the college has not heard the last from Ben. If the opportunity ever presents itself, Ben would like to return as an instructor.