Keeping Graduates Local: What Students Are Telling Us - and Why it Matters
Each year, more than 3,000 students graduate from UW-Eau Claire and Chippewa Valley Technical College. These students represent more than just education achievement - they are the future workforce and community members that drive our region's long-term economic success. Yet survey data shows that a significant portion of these graduates leave the region. Through the Eau Claire Area Chamber's 2025 Student Survey on the Chippewa Valley, we've gained critical insight on what matters to students and what we, as a community, can do to retain them. As many businesses struggle to fill open positions, retaining more of the talent we already train is a clear, data-driven solution to our workforce challenges.
Here's What We Learned:
A Missed Opportunity
27% of UWEC Graduates remained in the Chippewa Valley (employed) from 2023-2024 school year. Additionally about 65% of CVTC grads remained in the 11 county district in the 2022-2023 school year.
Students Want to Stay
71% of CVTC students & 67% of UWEC students say they could see themselves settling down in the Chippewa Valley - but many don't feel connected or see a clear path to a future here.
Housing is a Dealbreaker
Housing affordability was the top concern for students. More than 60% rated it "very important" - yet many shared that high rent and poor conditions make staying unfeasible.
Jobs are Here, But Visibility is Low
In a recent search, there are an estimated 600+ entry-level jobs currently open in the Chippewa Valley. But students report difficulty accessing these opportunities - especially without connections or the experience.
Outdoor Recreation is a Stand Out
Outdoor Recreation scored highest among the all community features. Nearly 70% of students rated it above average - with biking, hiking, and river access named as favorite assets.
Students Appreciate the Social Scene
Students from both campuses rated restaurants, coffee shops, and arts & entertainment offerings positively - especially near campus and downtown Eau Claire.
So What Can We Do?
Promote Clear & Accessible Careers
Prioritize Livability through Housing & Infrastructure
Municipal & county leaders can play a key role by investing in affordable housing, public transportation and continued vibrant downtown development.
Elevate and Market What's Already Great!
Students already appreciate our outdoor recreation, local businesses and cultural amenities. By amplifying these strengths through student-focused marketing and outreach, we can help more graduates see the Chippewa Valley as a place to build a full life.
The data in our survey revealed that Eau Claire, and the surrounding region, has a strong foundation to encourage young professionals to live and work here. The students already love the outdoor spaces, local businesses, and lifestyle possibilities that the Chippewa Valley has to offer. What's missing may be connection, affordability, and clearer access to careers. If we listen to what students are saying and act collaboratively, we can make the Chippewa Valley not just a great place to go to college, but a place graduates can proudly call home. By doing so, we strengthen our local talent pipeline and help businesses address long term hiring needs with homegrown professionals who are already invested in the region.