Welcome to WIGCA
Wisconsin Genetic Counselors Association
Annealing the genetic professionals of Wisconsin to amplify access to quality services in our community.
Our Mission
The mission of WIGCA is to advocate for the advancement of the genetic counseling profession in the state of Wisconsin and to increase engagement with the communities in which genetic counselors serve.
Who are Genetic Counselors?
Genetic counselors are specialized professionals who are trained in genetic and genomic utilization, as well as counseling techniques and communication.
Genetic counselors can work in a variety of settings such as: empowering patients in healthcare, interpreting genetic results in laboratories, improving genomic understanding in research, promoting public health policies in government, educating students in academia, and much more!
5,000+
Certified Genetic Counselors
Since 1999, the profession has grown significantly and as of March 2023, there are 6,517 certified genetic counselors in the USA
50+
GC Master’s Programs
As of January 2024, there are 57 accredited training programs for Genetic Counseling degrees in the U.S. and Canada
>100%
Growth of the GC profession in the past 10 years
By 2025 there should be nearly 7,500 certified genetic counselors, and by 2030 there are likely to be over 10,000 in the U.S. and Canada
From the NSGC 2020 Professional Status Survey
WHAT WE DO
Engage IN social policy
WIGCA worked with representatives to obtain licensure for genetic counselors in the state of WI and will continue to campaign for the genetic counseling profession. WIGCA will continue to advocate for the needs of genetic counselors, genetic professionals, and to support access to genetic services. We will engage with stakeholders who are campaigning for our causes and be a leader in creating access to genetic services in Wisconsin.
Promote Genetic Counseling Profession
WIGCA is the state chapter of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. As the demand for genetic services and the emphasis on personalized medicine grow, so too does the need for experts who can both interpret complex genetic information and effectively communicate life-changing news. WIGCA strives to network with organizations throughout Wisconsin to advance the genetic counseling profession, build trust in communities, and raise awareness and utilization of our vital services.
Educate
The ability to train upcoming generations is essential to the future of healthcare. WIGCA works closely with the two accredited Genetic Counseling Masters Programs in Wisconsin (Madison and Milwaukee) to support students. Our membership also boasts university professors, community leaders, and public health specialists charged with educating not only students, but also fellow healthcare providers, elected officials, insurance companies, and the general public in order to improve genetic care in our state.
Plan Genetic Education Events
WIGCA hosts annual educational conferences to keep members up to date and informed in the ever-growing world of genetics and medicine. WIGCA also partners with other organizations around the state to host genetics-themed talks and events as opportunities arise.
Our Team
WIGCA has over 130 members, including genetic counselors, doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians, and students who are involved in a multitude of projects to bolster awareness and efficacy of genetic counselors in Wisconsin.
Get Involved
WIGCA is always excited to welcome new members! We offer three membership types: Full (Genetic counselors), Associates (other professionals with genetic interest or specialty), and Student (current or prospective students)
Contact us
Interested in learning more? Looking to collaborate? Want to sponsor our next event or request a specialty lecture at your next event? Feel free to reach out!
Join WIGCA
Submit an application to obtain access to continuing education units, upcoming events, and networking opportunities.