RICE LAKE, Wis. -⎯ Four Business Professionals of America (BPA) students from Northwood Technical College earned multiple top national placements— including two first-place, two second-place and two third-place finishes—at the BPA National Leadership Conference held May 9–11 in Orlando, Florida.
Accompanied by their club adviser, Brenda Kretzschmar, students Amy Drain, Gianna Froelich, Katherine Hegg and Kate Meck competed in speaking and testing events aligned with their academic programs against peers from across the United States and China. In addition to high placements, Drain, Froelich and Hegg earned nationally recognized certifications by passing their Certiport exams in Word and Advanced Interview Skills.
Their performances resulted in the following placements:
- Amy Drain, Medical Administrative Professional program, Rice Lake campus: Fundamental Word Processing, first place; Health Insurance and Medical Billing, first place; Health Administration Procedures, third place; Health Administration Concepts, fifth place.
- Gianna Froelich, Office Support Specialist and Accounting Assistant programs, Rice Lake campus: Advanced Office Systems & Procedures, second place; Intermediate Word Processing, first place.
- Katherine Hegg, Administrative Coordinator program, Rice Lake campus: Graphic Design Promotion, sixth place; Intermediate Word Processing, sixth place; Advanced Interview Skills, tenth place.
- Kate Meck, Business Management, New Richmond campus: Ethics & Professionalism, third place; Financial Math & Analysis Concepts, third place; Contemporary Issues, sixth place.
“I’m so proud of the accomplishments of these students—they are career-ready,” said Brenda Kretzschmar, Northwood Tech BPA adviser. “Students passed Certiport tests and are nationally recognized for the difficulty of their program area.”
While reflecting on her experience at the competition, Amy Drain shared, ” BPA National Conference was a wonderful experience. I learned so much about myself and built self-confidence through difficult tests.”
Amy Drain earned first place in the Health Insurance and Medical Billing category at the 2025 Business Professionals of America competition.
Gianna Froehlich took first place in Intermediate Word Processing at the 2025 Business Professionals of America competition
Kate Meck placed third in the Ethics and Professionalism category at the 2025 Business Professionals of America competition.
“Going to Nationals in Orlando was one of the most memorable and beneficial experiences I have ever had. At first, I didn’t really consider going, since I am more of a soft-spoken and reserved person. However, I am so glad that I went outside of my comfort zone to pursue this opportunity,” said Gianna Froelich. “I was able to showcase my skills and knowledge, which allowed me to place first and second place in my competitions, out of the whole United States and China. Additionally, it also gave me the opportunity to receive a Word Certiport certification, which enhances my professional portfolio. Not to mention all of the wonderful people from all over the country I got to meet, the exhibitors I got to learn more about, and the places I got to see. I am so honored to have the opportunity to be a part of the Business Professionals of America (BPA). BPA has given me a wonderful community to participate in and has helped me grow my professional skills so significantly.”
At Northwood Tech, empowering students is a top priority through the college’s mission of Students First and focusing on their success in and out of the classroom. That commitment was on display at this year’s National Leadership Conference, themed “Capture the Moment,” which celebrated career and technical education. Northwood Tech students showcased their skills, earned certifications, and gained real-world experience. Through their involvement in Business Professionals of America, they also built leadership skills, made valuable connections, and joined a community that supports their growth and career goals.
Northwood Tech BPA participants are pictured with their adviser (from left to right): Amy Drain, Kate Meck, Gianna Froelich, Brenda Kretzschmar, and Katherine Hegg.
Anyone interested in learning more about the opportunities offered through BPA, including leadership development, community service and competitive events, can explore the organization’s role at Northwood Tech. To discover office and business-related programs available at Northwood Tech, visit NorthwoodTech.edu.
About Northwood Technical College
Northwood Technical College is a nationally top-ranked college and designated Gold 2024-25 Military Friendly® School that puts Students First. Northwood Tech serves the educational and career needs of approximately 13,000 residents of Northwestern Wisconsin each year. With multiple campuses, Northwood Tech offers career-focused associate degree programs, technical diplomas, short-term certificates, customized business training, and a wide array of courses for personal or career enrichment. Northwood Tech is a member of the Wisconsin Technical College System and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (www.hlcommission.org). For more information, call 800.243.9482 or visit NorthwoodTech.edu.
Northwood Technical College is grateful for all its community partnerships. Your support of the Northwood Tech Foundation is essential to student success. For information on how to contribute, visit NorthwoodTech.edu/donate.
Northwood Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, service in the uniformed services, veteran status, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital or family status, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions or status in any group protected by state or local law in employment, admissions or its programs or activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the College’s nondiscrimination policies: Amanda Gohde, AA/EEO Officer/Title IX Coordinator/Associate Vice President of Talent and Culture; 1900 College Drive, Rice Lake, WI 54868; 715.645.7042; Wisconsin Relay System TTY:711; Amanda.Gohde@NorthwoodTech.edu.
