Stevens Point manufacturer brings longstanding public safety expertise and community leadership to transformational regional training initiative
A Stevens Point manufacturer whose products support first responders around the world is making a significant investment in the people who protect communities here at home.
Mid-State Technical College is proud to announce a $100,000 commitment from Gamber-Johnson to support the development of the Nexus Public Safety Center, a transformational regional initiative designed to strengthen emergency response training, expand educational opportunities and prepare the next generation of public safety professionals across central Wisconsin.
The investment brings together two organizations with a shared commitment to innovation, workforce development and community safety.
Founded in Stevens Point in 1954, Gamber-Johnson has grown into a global manufacturer of rugged mounting systems, docking stations and vehicle equipment used by law enforcement, fire and emergency response professionals, as well as military and commercial fleets. Its products help secure and support the mission-critical technology first responders depend on in demanding environments.
Now, the company is extending that commitment beyond the equipment professionals use to the education and training that prepares them to serve.
"Gamber-Johnson represents exactly the kind of community leadership that will bring Nexus to life," said Dr. Shelly Mondeik, president of Mid-State Technical College. "This is a company that understands the demands placed on public safety professionals because its products support them every day. Their commitment is an investment in the people behind that technology—the individuals who answer the call when our communities need them most. We are incredibly grateful for their generosity, their longstanding partnership with Mid-State and their belief in what we can accomplish together."
The Nexus Public Safety Center represents a new approach to training and preparing public safety professionals in central Wisconsin. Developed through a partnership between Mid-State Technical College, the City of Stevens Point and regional public safety agencies, the multi-phase initiative will bring education, emergency services and collaborative training together in one location.
The $32 million first phase includes a new Mid-State public safety training center, a Stevens Point fire station and a satellite location for the Stevens Point Police Department. The center will feature modern classrooms, simulation labs and shared training environments designed to prepare students entering public safety careers while providing expanded professional development opportunities for those already serving.
The broader $45 million vision will further expand opportunities for advanced, realistic and collaborative public safety training.
For Gautam Malik, CEO of Gamber-Johnson and a Nexus community campaign chair, the investment reflects the company's commitment to those who dedicate their careers to protecting others.
"At Gamber-Johnson, we take pride in developing products that help public safety professionals do their jobs safely and effectively," said Malik. "But even the best technology is only as effective as the people trained to use it. Nexus is an opportunity to strengthen that foundation by giving current and future first responders access to the training, resources and collaborative experiences they need. Stevens Point has been our home for more than 70 years, and we're proud to invest in a project that will help protect our community and the region for generations to come."
The Nexus initiative responds to a growing need for skilled public safety professionals and accessible, scenario-based training across central Wisconsin. The center is expected to serve a region of more than 172,000 residents, expand local training opportunities and strengthen collaboration among law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services.
The investment from Gamber-Johnson also underscores the critical role businesses and community organizations play in moving the project forward.
Kurt Heuer, Mid-State's Nexus campaign lead, said the commitment demonstrates how regional partnerships can turn an ambitious vision into a lasting community resource.
"Nexus is being built for our entire region, and it will take our entire region to make it a reality," said Heuer. "Gamber-Johnson is helping set an example of what's possible when businesses invest in the future of public safety. Every contribution, regardless of size, brings us closer to creating a place where first responders can train together, develop lifesaving skills and better protect the communities we call home. We invite other businesses, organizations and individuals to join us in building that future."
Gamber-Johnson's commitment reflects a longstanding relationship with Mid-State and reinforces the important connection between technical education, local industry and community well-being.
Community Invited to Help Build Nexus
The Nexus campaign welcomes contributions from individuals, businesses, foundations and community organizations. Opportunities include financial gifts, equipment and material contributions and sponsorships.
Businesses, organizations and individuals throughout central Wisconsin are invited to join Gamber-Johnson in helping bring this important regional investment to life.
To learn more about the Nexus Public Safety Center, explore partnership opportunities or make a gift, visit www.mstc.edu/nexus or contact Kurt Heuer at kurt.heuer@mstc.edu.
