Cory Rock, a student at the College of Western Idaho (CWI), found his passion for heavy machinery and equipment early on. Unlike traditional school subjects like math and English, Rock excelled in hands-on work with excavators and bulldozers. After high school, he decided to join the military instead of pursuing higher education. However, his interest in heavy equipment led him to discover CWI’s Heavy Equipment Technician Program, where he is currently working towards his associate’s degree while gaining practical experience at Vermeer, an industrial and agricultural equipment company. The program’s hands-on approach allows Rock to apply what he learns in school directly to his job, preparing him for a full-time position at Vermeer upon completion of his degree.
CWI, founded in 2007, aims to connect students like Rock with businesses in need of skilled workers. Under the leadership of President Gordon Jones, the college has experienced significant growth, serving over 30,000 students and expanding its programs to meet the evolving needs of students and businesses. With plans for new buildings, including a Nampa Health and Science Building and a Boise Campus, CWI is poised to accommodate a potential student population of 50,000 in the next 15 years. Additionally, the college will offer its first four-year degree, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration, to provide students with more educational options.
Despite some hesitancy around higher education, CWI remains a popular choice for students due to its affordability and transparency regarding program costs and potential earnings. The college’s innovative approach to education, such as redesigning courses based on student feedback, has led to increased student success and retention rates. CWI also collaborates with businesses to offer programs that align with industry demands, such as the electric vehicle technician training in partnership with Tesla and Rivian.
While technical programs like heavy machinery attract students like Rock, CWI also caters to those interested in fields like political science. Students like Andy Del Toro Obeso, who come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, can pursue their educational goals at CWI with the help of federal grants. The college’s focus on providing marketable skills and supporting students through barriers like childcare and transportation contributes to their overall success.
As CWI continues to grow, it faces the challenge of measuring student success beyond traditional metrics like graduation rates. By focusing on economic empowerment and post-graduation employment surveys, the college aims to provide a comprehensive view of student outcomes. With a commitment to transparency and stakeholder involvement, CWI is preparing to serve larger numbers of students while maintaining its reputation for affordable, quality education.