Connected Beyond the Classroom.

We partner directly with Milwaukee-area non-profits and professional design organizations—both local and national—to deliver real-world creative solutions, foster student mentorship, and build lasting community impact.

Professional Organization Partnerships

Local & National Professional Networks

At MATC, we believe design education shouldn’t happen in a vacuum. We actively embed our Graphic Design program into Southeast Wisconsin’s creative ecosystem, connecting students with regional design leaders, agency networks, and national professional associations. These partnerships give our students access to industry-standard ethical frameworks, portfolio reviews, student design awards, and direct job placement channels before graduation.

1. AIGA Wisconsin (The Professional Association for Design)

MATC Graphic Design aligns its curriculum with the national standards established by AIGA, the oldest and largest professional organization for design. Through the local Wisconsin chapter, MATC students participate in statewide portfolio reviews, attend annual design conferences, and access student membership perks that connect them with thousands of creative professionals across the country.

2. Milwaukee Adworkers (United Adworkers)

For decades, United Adworkers has served as the heartbeat of Milwaukee’s advertising, design, and marketing community. MATC students actively participate in Adworkers events, gain direct exposure to local agency leaders, and submit work to the annual Milwaukee 99—the region’s premiere award competition recognizing outstanding local creative talent.

Community Impact: Working with Non-Profits

Design for Good: Real Solutions for Area Non-Profits

Through our Graphic Design Workshop (GRDS-112) and collaborative studio initiatives, MATC students partner directly with local non-profits, community initiatives, and public service organizations across Southeast Wisconsin.

  • Pro Bono Design Services: Students craft comprehensive visual identity systems, event promotional collateral, social media campaigns, and web assets for organizations that need high-impact design on non-profit budgets.

  • Real-World Agency Experience: Students experience the full client workflow—from initial discovery meetings and research briefs to formal concept pitches and final asset handoffs.

  • Community-Centric Focus: We empower non-profits to amplify their mission while providing our designers with real-world case studies for their professional portfolios.

Are you an area non-profit needing creative support?

We review prospective client projects each semester.

CONNECT WITH MATC FACULTY

Collaborative Events & Connections

Annual MATC Portfolio Night

Our marquee capstone event where graduating seniors present their final print, web, and packaging portfolios to local agency directors, non-profit partners, and members of our professional network.

  • When: Every May (End of Spring Term)

  • Where: Downtown Milwaukee Campus • CREATE Gallery

Industry Mentorship & Guest Speaker Series

Throughout the year, design leaders from local agencies, national professional chapters, and regional non-profits visit our Downtown Milwaukee campus to conduct live critiques, share career insights, and lead workshops.

Alumni & Community Success

Graduates Impacting the Creative Community

  • David K. — Creative Director at Regional Non-Profit Support Network

    “Working with real Milwaukee non-profits during my final terms at MATC gave me a deep appreciation for cause-driven design. It completely shaped my career path.”

  • Maria S. — Senior Graphic Designer & AIGA Member

    “The direct connection MATC maintains with organizations like AIGA made my transition from student to active member of the Milwaukee design scene seamless.”