The College of Western Idaho (CWI) Foundation recently received an $18,000 grant from the Gene Haas Foundation that will support the College’s Machine Tool Technology Program. These funds will support scholarships for these students in addition to providing funding for CWI's successful Skills USA programming.
“These are the types of connections with industry that we’re proud to represent at CWI,” said Vice President of Advancement, Mark Arstein. “Haas Automation is one of the leaders in the machine tool industry. They chose to use their success to create new opportunities for students at CWI and across the country.”
The Gene Haas Foundation was established in 1999, by Gene Haas, founder and owner of Haas Automation, Inc., to support the needs of the local community. In 2022, the Gene Haas Foundation provided more than $27 million in grants, bringing the total since inception to more than $175 million.
Students enrolled in the Machine Tool Technology Program at CWI are in high demand across Idaho. They are deemed an in-demand job by the Idaho Department of Labor and have a nearly $24-an-hour average salary.
At CWI, students have the option to choose a one-year or two-year option in Machine Tool Technology, depending on if they are pursuing a certificate or associate of applied science. Scholarships through this grant will be available to Machine Tool Technology students in the 2024-25 academic year.
“The funds donated by the Gene Haas Foundation make a huge impact on our students,” said Department Chair for Welding and Metals Fabrication Program, Mike Wheeler. “Nearly all of our students have a job waiting for them by the time they graduate, and this grant will help more of them leave CWI with little to no debt.”
For those interested in learning more about the College’s Machine Tool Technology program, please visit the program page or contact Mike Wheeler at mikewheeler@cwi.edu.
