"When I was 12 years old, I came to UW-Stout Polytechnic for a summer camp because I thought the swimming, biking and karaoke sounded fun”, said Brianne Maier. “By the end of the week, I was telling people I wanted to be a packaging engineer. And that's exactly what I became."
For Brianne Maier, the encouragement to attend a UW-Stout Polytechnic summer camp changed the course of her life.
Growing up in nearby Plum City, Wisconsin, Brianne wasn't particularly interested in math or science. But when her sixth-grade teacher shared information about UW-Stout Polytechnic's summer camps, she signed up for what she thought would be a fun week away from home.
She was introduced to engineering through hands-on, practical learning, and discovered a passion.
The camp introduced Brianne to engineering concepts through hands-on experiences, interactive projects and supportive mentors who made learning exciting and accessible. By the end of the week, she could envision a future she had never considered before.
That spark never faded.
Brianne returned to campus for summer camp year after year as a junior counselor, camp counselor and eventually an instructor, helping inspire the next generation of students just as she had once been inspired. The experience shaped her academic interests, guided her educational choices and ultimately led her to enroll at UW-Stout Polytechnic, where she earned a B.S. in packaging and later completed a M.S. in operations & supply management.
"My summer camp experiences at Stout completely changed my trajectory," Brianne said. "It changed the classes I took in high school, the opportunities I pursued and the career path I chose."
As a UW-Stout Polytechnic student, Brianne found an environment where learning extended far beyond the classroom. Small class sizes, faculty with extensive industry experience and a curriculum grounded in real-world application provided the foundation for her success.
One of the university's most transformative opportunities was its emphasis on internships and cooperative education experiences.
While paying for college herself, Brianne completed three paid internships at distinctly different companies. Such opportunities allowed her to explore multiple industries, gain valuable professional experience and graduate with minimal debt.
"The co-op and internship program was incredibly impactful for me," she said. "Not only did it help financially, but it made me a better student. When I returned to class, I could ask better questions because I had already experienced the work firsthand."
Today, Brianne is vice president of dairy foods R&D and strategic operations at Land O’Lakes, where she continues to see the value of a UW-Stout Polytechnic education reflected in the graduates she works alongside.
"The work ethic, grit, positive attitude and knowledge that UW-Stout Polytechnic graduates bring to the workplace is remarkable. I'm proud every time I see what Stout alumni are accomplishing."
Brianne’s experience at Stout was strengthened by philanthropic support that helped reduce financial barriers to her education. As a student, this support made it possible for her to focus on her academic and professional goals.
Now, in a meaningful full-circle moment, Brianne is giving back to ensure future students have access to the same opportunities that shaped her journey. Her commitment reflects a deep belief in Stout’s mission and the power of philanthropy to transform lives.
"UW-Stout Polytechnic offers something truly special," Brianne said. "The combination of applied learning, industry partnerships, affordability, individualized support and a welcoming campus creates opportunities that change lives. Supporting UW-Stout Polytechnic helps ensure those opportunities continue for future generations."
Today, Brianne remains passionate about mentoring young people and encouraging the next generation of innovators, scientists, engineers, artists and teachers. Whether serving on advisory boards, introducing children to the wide array of camps and conferences offered at UW-Stout Polytechnic or making a gift through the UW-Stout Foundation and Alumni Association, she continues to create the same spark that was ignited in her years ago.
Because of donor support, innovative outreach programs and experiential learning opportunities, a curious sixth grader discovered a future she never imagined.
"UW-Stout Polytechnic gave me opportunities to learn, grow and discover what was possible for my future,” says Brianne. “Every investment in Stout through philanthropy helps advance opportunities for the next generation and strengthens this great institution."
Your gift to UW-Stout Polytechnic provides opportunities for members of our #StoutProud community by removing financial barriers to a UW-Stout Polytechnic education, providing robust and individualized student support, advancing academic innovation and success, creating dynamic living and learning spaces while ensuring a vibrant campus community – the full Stout Experience. Through your philanthropic support you provide the necessary flexible funds to ensure Stout thrives and continues to make positive impact on industry, in our communities and on society. Make your gift today.
