On July 2, Peter Dettmer took the helm as Dean of the Manufacturing, Apprenticeship, Technology & Transportation (MATT) Division at Blackhawk Technical College. He succeeds Greg Phillips, who retired in June.
Dettmer brings more than 15 years of experience in program management, teaching, and curriculum development within the technology and trades fields. Since 2009, he has served in leadership roles as an Instructor, Program Director, and Department Chair at Madison College. He is known for blending deep technical knowledge with a student-centered approach to leadership. Throughout his career, he has focused on building strong industry connections and designing hands-on, flexible learning experiences that prepare students for in-demand careers.
"I’m honored to join Blackhawk Technical College and excited for the opportunity to build on the strong foundation of the MATT Division. I look forward to expanding our connections with industry and the local community to ensure our programs stay responsive and relevant. Together, we’ll prepare students for rewarding careers by offering flexible, high-quality learning opportunities that meet the evolving needs of today’s workforce," Dettmer said.
At Madison College, Dettmer served in several leadership roles, including Instructor, Program Director, and Department Chair. He led a team to merge two academic programs into one streamlined, modern curriculum that better aligned with employer needs and improved student outcomes. He was instrumental in launching a mechatronics apprenticeship, developing a two-year Associate of Science degree in Automated Manufacturing Systems Technology, supervising faculty and managing program budgets.
His background also includes more than 20 years of experience in the industrial automation and robotics sector. He worked for companies such as Big Sky Engineering and Seiders Manufacturing in Verona, as well as Poppe and Co. in Giessen, Germany.
“Peter’s expertise in industrial and information technologies, experience working with industry partners, and knowledge of the Wisconsin Technical College System made him our top choice to lead the MATT Division,” said Karen Schmitt, Blackhawk’s Vice President of Academic Affairs.
The MATT Division at Blackhawk plays a critical role in supporting regional workforce development through programs in manufacturing, transportation, skilled trades and industrial technology. Dettmer said he aims to further strengthen these offerings and deepen engagement with local employers and communities.
“I look forward to engaging with students, collaborating with faculty and staff, and building new partnerships that will shape the future of technical education in southern Wisconsin,” he said.
Dettmer holds a Master of Science in Adult Education, a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and a two-year technical diploma in Machine Tooling Techniques. He also is a professional journeyman ironworker and has received numerous teaching honors, including the 2025 Outstanding Leadership Award in Automation Education from FANUC America.
Outside of his professional work, Dettmer is an avid endurance athlete and a seven-time Ironman finisher. He also serves as president of Sun Prairie Moves, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting bicycling and active transportation in his home community.
“I am confident that Peter is a forward-looking academic leader who will keep Blackhawk at the forefront of delivering industry-driven, flexible learning options supporting both workforce development and student success,” Schmitt said.