After nine years at Blackhawk Technical College, Tony Landowski, Executive Director of Student Services, is preparing for retirement on May 9. His career has been dedicated to guiding students toward opportunities that align with their strengths and interests, a mission that has shaped his time at Blackhawk and beyond.
The path to counseling
After earning his undergraduate degree from UW-Madison, Tony spent time working as a roofer, landscaper and painter in Florida, California and Wisconsin. While he enjoyed the outdoor work, he felt a pull toward a career where he could make a lasting impact on people’s lives.
That realization led him back to Madison, where he began a Master’s program in Counseling with a Recreation emphasis before transferring to UW-Whitewater to complete his degree. During his final year, a practicum at Madison Area Technical College solidified his passion for community colleges and their transformative role in students’ lives. His career path then took him to Madison College, followed by 14 years within the UW system, before he returned to the Wisconsin Technical College System and joined Blackhawk.
“I was drawn to the career by my desire to empower people through access to job training and resources that were accessible and attainable–life-changing skills and earning power through affordable education and training,” Tony said. “This continues to be my favorite thing about Blackhawk Technical College, seeing the impact of providing access to learning and training that changes people’s lives.”
One of his most memorable experiences at Blackhawk was supporting a student who struggled to stay engaged in school. After discovering a passion for emergency services, the student ultimately shifted from the family HVAC business to a career in nursing—a transformation Tony was proud to guide.
In addition to the impact on individuals, Tony shares his appreciation for the employees in the Student Services Division, who are always friendly, patient and kind when dealing with students. Beyond that, he is most proud of being a part of the greater team at Blackhawk and seeing what the College has become.
“I am a huge believer in the enormous impact of a community college on a region–economic, jobs, cultural, mobility, industry, and pride. Blackhawk is doing that, and I am proud to have been a part of the transformation,” he said.
Looking ahead
As Blackhawk continues to evolve, Tony sees a bright future for the College. He believes the balance between growth and maintaining a close-knit, supportive environment is a key strength Blackhawk should preserve.
And while he says he will miss seeing hesitant, unsure students develop into accomplished, confident students, he is ready to head into retirement and will remain busy.
“I will probably work,” he said. “I have a rental house in Madison that seems to be a never-ending project. I am also planning to build and move into a small house during the upcoming year–I have an interest in sustainable living, repurposed and salvaged materials, and the design of a house that is simple and environmentally friendly. New Mexico and Ireland seem to be in the crystal ball, too.”
Tony says he wants to continue helping people in some capacity to stay active and assist youth. That may involve volunteering overseas. He also plans on spending more time with his family.
“I have two adult children and three grandchildren, and they are all in Madison. I’ll be able to be more involved in their lives and to support their goals,” he said.
Gratitude and encouragement
“Thanks for this opportunity to share,” Tony said. “It’s bittersweet to leave. There is a lot to reflect on, but I’m very grateful to have had this opportunity at Blackhawk. I am really looking forward to watching what Blackhawk becomes in the next five to 10 years.”
He encourages any student or staff member to learn skills, saying, “Our world requires skilled training at all levels and all walks of life.”