About WiscNet
WiscNet’s history began in the early 1980s when colleges and universities started connecting to the internet. WiscNet is one of the earliest state networks, but similar organizations now exist in more than half of U.S. states. Headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, WiscNet, a nonprofit, is powered by a local staff of 26 people who support a membership organization of more than 500 K-12 districts, private colleges and universities, technical colleges, library systems, municipalities, government entities and health care organizations.
Organizational Overview
WiscNet is a Research and Education Network community that offers technology services to various institutions, including K-12 districts, private colleges and universities, technical colleges, library systems, municipalities, government, and health care. Its primary mission is to connect people and strategies to address common technology challenges and create innovative solutions to support its heterogeneous educational, research, and community service objectives. The organization strongly emphasizes building a support community, fostering collaboration, and sharing knowledge and experiences, all without the competitive dynamics often found in the corporate world. WiscNet is known for its passionate members and staff, unique qualities, leadership in the state and nation, and commitment to problem-solving, trust, innovation, and flexibility.
What sets WiscNet apart are its strong relationships, its status as a valuable asset to Wisconsin, and its focus on being a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting its members and communities. The organization thrives on embracing innovative and unconventional ideas while maintaining a culture of teaching and learning, sharing expertise, and fostering a sense of reciprocity and collaboration. WiscNet is known for its willingness to experiment, adapt to the needs of its members, and always put its members' interests at the forefront, making it a member-focused network organization.
WiscNet staff work not only to support you, serve you, and resolve whatever is standing in your way, but also to pursue wild ideas with you rather than for you.
You can find out more about who we are on our staff page. Would you like to be part of the WiscNet staff? Check our Careers page for current job openings.
The WiscNet Board of Directors governs WiscNet and provides strategic guidance to the CEO. The Board consists of a maximum of fifteen members representing various sectors, including private higher education in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Technical College System, K-12 institutions, and the general membership. UW-Madison, UW-Milwaukee, and the UW System each have designated seats on the Board, which the Board fills at its discretion.
WiscNet’s Mission, Vision, & Values
WiscNet is currently operating within the framework of a strategic plan that outlines goals, objectives and assessments between 2025-2030. One objective within the strategic plan is to develop and communicate clear guiding principles for defining WiscNet priorities while embedding a shared culture of continuous improvement and advancement. Out of this objective came the development of new mission, vision, and value statements. These statements provide a strong foundation for guiding organizational priorities, decision-making, and culture as we move forward. The updated mission, vision, and values reflect both our commitment to serving Wisconsin's research and education community and our aspirations for WiscNet's future impact.
Our Mission
WiscNet cultivates a connected community of organizations serving Wisconsin’s communities. We work with members to advocate for their needs and support the shared, reliable technology they depend on to fulfill their missions.
Our Vision
WiscNet envisions a connected Wisconsin where collaboration drives discovery, learning, and innovation.
Our Values
Our members come first.
We are genuinely invested in our members’ success. We care about delivering trusted, cost-effective solutions so member organizations can focus on the needs of their communities.
Trust is essential.
We work hard to earn and keep the trust of our community. We are honest and transparent in our work and we show up for our members.
Our community is stronger together.
Each member organization is an important part of our network and their contributions make the WiscNet community stronger.
We exceed expectations.
WiscNet delivers whatever is needed so members can achieve their goals. Our staff is reliable, approachable, and eager to go above and beyond typical support.
Learn More
WiscNet Careers
Based in Madison, Wisconsin, WiscNet is a fun place to work with a cast of characters dedicated to serving the WiscNet membership. The team is encouraged to pursue wild ideas and teach and learn together in community with our members. Click the learn more link below to see current job openings.