Karen Hoglund
Ashland

Dean of Public Safety
Degrees
M.Ed., Capella University, Minneapolis, MN
B.S., Franklin University, Columbus, OH
A.A.S, Chippewa Valley Technical College, Eau Claire, WI
Biography
With a dedicated career at Northwood Technical College since 2000, I currently serve as the Dean of Public Safety, overseeing programs that prepare students for critical roles in community safety and emergency response. My leadership spans Fire Services, Criminal Justice Studies, Law Enforcement and Jail Academies, as well as Emergency Medical Services—including Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Advanced EMT, and Paramedic programs.
Throughout my tenure, I have been instrumental in advancing curriculum development, fostering industry partnerships, and ensuring that Northwood Tech’s public safety programs meet the changing needs of the field. My commitment to excellence in education and training has helped shape the next generation of first responders and public safety professionals across Wisconsin.
Prior to joining Northwood Technical College, I worked in various areas including finance, trades and the IT industry as a computer programmer. These experiences have provided me versatile skills that I utilize daily to provide leadership to those I work with.
I currently reside in Ashland, WI, with my husband, where I remain actively engaged in community initiatives, business endeavors where we are able to enjoy the beauty of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.