College of Western Idaho (CWI) has been awarded its first-ever National Science Foundation (NSF) grant. The $862,435 award, provided through NSF’s Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program, will help fund the new Associate of Science in Mining Technician degree, the first program of its kind in the region.
“This award is a source of pride for CWI and our students,” said CWI President Gordon Jones. “This project gives our students the opportunity for hands-on learning and experience with state of the industry mining equipment, ultimately helping them gain the skills Idaho employers need. It’s a win for our students and for our communities.”
The three-year project, Developing Innovative Geotechnical Instruction and Training (DIG-IT), will prepare students for in-demand careers in modern mining and geosciences. Students will learn to use advanced mining and surveying technologies such as ground penetrating radar, lidar, and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). They will also gain hands-on experience through coursework, fieldwork, and paid internships with Idaho mining employers. Graduates will be prepared to complete Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) certification, creating direct pathways to technician-level jobs.
Over the life of the grant, CWI expects to enroll three student cohorts, serving up to 60 students. Faculty will also receive specialized training from industry experts to support the program in meeting evolving workforce needs. A new Mining Industry Technical Advisory Committee will guide program development and maintain strong ties between education and employment.
“Receiving an NSF grant is a significant milestone for any institution, and especially for a community college like CWI,” said CWI Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Denise Aberle-Cannata. “This rare achievement validates our innovative approach to geotechnical instruction and positions CWI as a leader in this field.”
Nationally, only one in four NSF proposals are funded, and most awards go to research universities. CWI’s selection is especially notable for a community college and highlights the strength of its faculty as well as the College’s commitment to providing high-quality, accessible education that meets Idaho employers’ needs.
The proposal development began in 2023 with principal investigators, Associate Professor of Geosciences, Ander Sundell, and Department Chair of Geosciences, Paul Stahmann.
“With this award, we can equip students with the knowledge, training, and experience to build a pipeline of skilled mining technicians who are ready to contribute immediately to Idaho’s growing mining industry,” said Sundell. “It’s not every day a community college gets an opportunity like this. It really shows the strength of our program and how we’re building clear pathways to meaningful employment at an incredible value.”
This grant announcement comes in conjunction with CWI’s partnership with Perpetua Resources to establish the $250,000 Stibnite Launch Scholarship. The scholarship will support at least 12 Mining Technician and Geosciences students annually for the next three years, with funding expected to continue beyond.
The NSF’s Advanced Technological Education program focuses on educating technicians in high-tech fields vital to the nation’s economy. Since its founding in 1993, ATE has supported two-year community and technical colleges as leaders in preparing the U.S. technician workforce.
CWI's Mining Technician degree launched in Fall 2025. Students interested in joining the next cohort can register for Spring 2026 classes beginning Nov. 3. Learn more about CWI’s Mining Technician program.
