When Roxana Balaguera came to the United States nine years ago, she did not speak English. Starting over meant adapting to a new country, learning new skills, and finding new opportunities for herself and her career.
Years later, she came to College of Western Idaho (CWI), where a free Pre-Manufacturing: Pathways to Trades, Engineering, and Technical Careers class introduced her to technology, programming and career opportunities in Idaho’s growing industries.
“I chose CWI because I saw an opportunity to learn something completely new and explore a different career path,” Balaguera said. “CWI gave me the opportunity to take that first step.”
Beginning in Fall 2027, CWI will expand opportunities for adult learners, like Balaguera, in Boise by bringing Adult Education services to Boise Micron Academic Center in Downtown Boise.
Approximately half of the more than 4,000 participants CWI Adult Education serves annually access classes, services and community partnerships in Boise. Boise Micron Academic Center will become CWI’s primary Boise location for these services, with 25% more space to respond to student demand, expand programming where needed and improve scheduling options.
“The move reflects CWI’s commitment to creating clear, accessible pathways for adult learners,” said Adult Education Director, Jac Webb. “Adult Education is an important entry point to CWI, helping students build the skills and confidence to continue their education, advance their careers and create greater economic opportunity.”
Balaguera completed CWI’s Pre-Manufacturing program in Spring 2025 after deciding she wanted to challenge herself and explore a field connected to technology.
“One of my biggest challenges was learning technical concepts in a language that was not my first language,” she said. “I overcame this by asking questions, practicing, and not being afraid to ask for help when I needed it.”
The program also took learning beyond the classroom. Tours of CWI facilities and local companies, including Micron’s facility in Boise, introduced Balaguera to programs, industries and career opportunities available in the Treasure Valley. Through those experiences, she began to see where her new skills could take her.
Today, Balaguera works as a Construction Safety Professional with Hoffman Construction Company on the Micron expansion project. She began as a Carpentry Apprentice and moved into her current role six months later.
Balaguera now helps lead new-hire orientations in English and Spanish, translates work plans into Spanish and supports daily safety meetings for approximately 500 workers.
“I am passionate about learning new skills and finding ways to apply what I learn to real-world situations,” she said. “I especially enjoy helping others understand safety requirements and making sure information is clear and accessible to everyone, including Spanish-speaking workers.”
For adult learners in Boise, connecting with CWI programs and services can open the door to similar opportunities.
Students at Boise Micron Academic Center will have access to English Language Learning, Adult Basic Education and GED preparation, GED testing support and coaching, career and workforce preparation, digital literacy, college and career transition services, and Integrated Education and Training programs.
The expansion builds on recent statewide recognition of CWI Adult Education students, educators and programs, including honors recognizing faculty leadership and advocacy for adult learners.
The new location will also place Adult Education students closer to additional CWI programs, faculty and wrap-around support services, including workforce training, advising and career resources. As students build foundational skills, they will have greater exposure to certificates, workforce training, apprenticeships and degree programs that can help them bridge over to what comes next.
Many Adult Education students are working toward goals beyond learning English or earning a GED. For some, the next step may be additional education or training. For others, it may be earning a credential, entering a new field or preparing for a career that can create greater economic opportunity.
For Balaguera, taking that first step at CWI introduced her to possibilities she had not considered before.
“Don’t be afraid to try something new or start over,” she said. “There may be challenges along the way, but with determination, hard work, and a willingness to learn, you can accomplish more than you may think.”
Stay up to date on the latest Boise Micron Academic Center developments by visiting CWI’s Campus Development page.
To learn more about free classes, programs and resources available through CWI Adult Education, visit the Adult Education page.
