Ashland
New Richmond
Rice Lake
Superior
News
Beyond the Classroom: Faculty in Focus — Jennifer Ellis, Gerontology – Aging Services Professional instructor
March 25, 2025
As part of Careers in Aging Month, Northwood Technical College is spotlighting Jennifer Ellis, an instructor in the Gerontology – Aging Services Professional program. With nearly a decade at Northwood Tech, she is dedicated to preparing students for careers that make a lasting impact on the lives of older adults.
Primarily teaching at the Superior campus, Ellis also supports students in Ashland, Hayward, and beyond. Originally from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, she spent 16 years in the Philadelphia area before returning to the Midwest to be closer to family and Lake Superior. Outside the classroom, she enjoys traveling, cooking, baking, and riding four-wheelers in the summer and snowmobiles in the winter.
Educational Background and Passion for Gerontology
With a doctorate in leadership and gerontology, a master's in administration of human services, and a bachelor's in biology with a minor in psychology, Ellis brings a wealth of knowledge to the classroom. She also holds credentials in gerontology and human services, blending research and direct practice to shape her teaching approach.
"Gerontology, the study of age, aging, and older adulthood, is a relatively new discipline," Ellis said. "This area of study is filled with innovation and exploring new ways to support individuals as they age. I love walking with students on their own innovative journey in this field, making positive contributions so that all people can live well into older adulthood. Our students are change-agents—and as instructors, so are we!"
The Gerontology – Aging Services Professional program
The passion for gerontology comes from the universal nature of aging — whether it’s our own journey, the people we know, or those we encounter in our careers. The Gerontology – Aging Services Professional program helps both new and experienced workers better understand aging and older adulthood. Along with the associate degree, students can take individual courses and earn certificates in dementia care and gerontology for professionals, available both in person and online.
Northwood Tech’s Gerontology – Aging Services Professional Associate of Applied Science degree is the only two-year program in the nation accredited by the Accreditation for Gerontology Education Council (AGEC), a milestone Ellis is particularly proud of.
"One of our greatest accomplishments as a program was achieving national accreditation," Ellis said. "This recognition not only validates the quality of our curriculum but also highlights the incredible work our students and graduates are doing in the field of aging services."
To give students real-world insight, aging and dementia simulations offer a firsthand look at the challenges of age-related limitations. Through these activities, students experience what it’s like to face difficulties with vision, movement, hearing, and memory, helping them better support older adults in various professional settings.
Career Opportunities in Aging Services
With the aging population growing in northwestern Wisconsin and across the country, careers in aging services are more important than ever. A gerontology credential isn’t just for those in aging services — it enhances interactions with older adults in almost any career, improving customer service and creating more welcoming communities.
Here’s how gerontology applies to different industries:
- Health care and rehabilitation: Helps medical professionals, physical therapists, and occupational therapists provide age-appropriate care and support for older patients.
- Social work and counseling: Supports mental health, grief counseling, and life transitions for older adults.
- Long-term care and senior services: Benefits those working in nursing homes, assisted living, and home care programs by improving understanding of elder needs.
- Public policy and advocacy: Guides lawmakers, community leaders, and nonprofit organizations in creating policies that improve health care access and quality of life for older adults.
- Technology and innovation: Encourages businesses and engineers to develop assistive devices, smart homes, and health care solutions that enhance independent living.
- Education and research: Helps educators and researchers study aging trends, disease prevention, and ways to improve senior well-being.
Ellis has one last piece of advice for anyone considering a gerontology credential or completing the pathway: “For students who enjoy working with older adults — follow your passion!” Ellis said. “There are so many career opportunities and a growing need for a skilled workforce. Preparing yourself with credit-based gerontology education is the next step in your journey.”
For more information about Northwood Tech’s nationally accredited Gerontology - Aging Services Professional program, visit the program webpage NorthwoodTech.edu/Gero.
