2020 Emerging Professionals

Published: December 18, 2020

The Emerging Professionals program exists to recognize outstanding Career Technical Education students for commitment to learning, demonstration of talent in their program, and potential to excel in their chosen industry. Students are nominated by their instructors, and selection is based on academic integrity, innovation, and professionalism both in and outside the classroom. The $1,000 scholarship is designed to help pay for students' second or fourth semester of their program. 

Manuel Orozco, a student in the Auto Body Technology program at the College, was nominated as one of this year’s Emerging Professionals by Associate Professor, Sean McConnachie.

“Manuel was very deserving of this award,” said McConnachie. “One of the greatest joys in being an instructor is seeing a student excel and knowing you will be seeing them in the industry in the future. Watching a student grow and become successful is the best reward a teacher can get.”

“This is the first scholarship I have ever received, so it means a lot to me,” said Orozco. “It reaffirms I am doing good in the class and that my efforts are being noticed. I was really surprised when I received it.”

Congratulations to Orozco and the following students nominated as Emerging Professionals for the 2020/2021 academic year:

Manuel Orozco, Auto Body Technology

Nominated by Sean McConnachie

Nathan Acuff, Auto Body Technology

Nominated by Sean McConnachie

Rick Pow, Drafting Technology

Nominated by Rob Green

Alexandra Edwards, Fire Service Technology

Nominated by Darrin Raskopf

Joshua Oquendo, Heavy Duty Truck Technician

Nominated by Rocky Church

Peter Harcey, Horticulture Technology

Nominated by Dan Schultz

Jordan Sellars, Law Enforcement

Nominated by LeRoy Forsman

Carissa Nelson, Law Enforcement

Nominated by LeRoy Forsman

Kimmer Jackson, Law Enforcement

Nominated by LeRoy Forsman

Seth Bright, Network and System Administration

Nominated by Mindy Young

The next group of Emerging Professionals will be selected in November of 2021. Contact Pat Neal, Dean of Industry, Engineering, and Trades, at patneal@cwi.edu to learn more. 

More from CWI

Studio Art 2026 Capstone pieces in front of green backdrop

Celebrate the artistic and academic achievements of Studio Art graduates at the exhibit, What Makes Us Human, on display, beginning April 16.

Read more about What Makes Us Human: 2026 CWI Capstone Artist Exhibition
Business Professionals of America students and faculty stand with their awards

Four CWI Business Professionals of America students participated in this year’s State Leadership conference, and each earned top-five placements across several competitions.

Read more about Students Excel at 2026 Idaho Business Professionals of America State Leadership Conference
Two students sitting at a computer

Students put their technical skills and preparation to the test during SkillsUSA Idaho's 2026 Idaho State Leadership and Skills Conference, earning multiple podium finishes across...

Read more about CWI Students Earn Honors at 2026 Idaho SkillsUSA Conference
Jessica Smith stands next to a hospital bed with a mannequin

As a full-time Registered Nursing student, mom, and wife, Jessica Smith is pursuing her dream at CWI with hard work and support from her family, cohort, and scholarships. Through hands-on...

Read more about Driven to Care
ShanDale Youmans sitting near plant box

After enrolling at CWI, ShanDale Youmans has gained hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities that helped turn her passion for the outdoors into a clear biology career path.

Read more about Youmans Embracing Opportunities to Shape Her Future
Holly Bale stands next to artwork
Holly Bale

Digital Photography students help bring campus to life with their images now installed in new buildings on campus, showcasing creativity and student talent.

Read more about Student Photography Brings Life to New Campus Buildings
Graduates raising their right hand in audience

CWI honored 14 graduates of its Law Enforcement Class 15 on March 9 with awards, a class gift, and reciting the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics.

Read more about Ceremony Honors 2026 Law Enforcement Graduates
Group of people signing a paper

CWI and Micron celebrated 12 apprenticeship graduates and welcomed 11 new apprentices, highlighting a growing partnership building Idaho’s semiconductor workforce.

Read more about CWI Celebrates Micron Apprenticeship Graduates and Welcomes Fifth Cohort
Group of people stand in front of a bridge

Anthropology students visited Celebration Park for hands-on fieldwork, exploring Indigenous history, petroglyphs, and the landscapes that shaped human life.

Read more about Field Trip Brings Anthropology Lessons to Life
Six students stand in front of a curtain

CWI Speech and Debate team earns six individual awards and three team honors at the Dugaw Smelt Classic. The team also secures a season-long Silver Award in the NFC.

Read more about Speech and Debate Opens Spring with Strong Finish at Dugaw Smelt Classic
Student at board with wires

Through CWI’s Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program, Cesar Rodriguez pairs classroom precision with real-world industry experience.

Read more about Curiosity Powers a Career

News QR Code

URL: https://cwi.edu/news/2020-emerging-professionals<br>