Cultivating Success: Robin O’Neill Finds Growth in CWI’s Horticulture Program

“How many of you here at the Expo went to, work with, or hired someone from CWI,” asks Dan Schults, assistant professor of horticulture at College of Western Idaho (CWI). Hands lift throughout the conference room, filled with attendees of the annual Idaho Horticulture Expo, including thought leaders, employers, and business owners.

Also present are students from CWI’s Horticulture Technology and Agricultural Business, Leadership, and Education programs, and all listen as Schults shares a presentation about CWI’s near-complete Agriculture Sciences Complex. One second-year CWI student, Robin O’Neill, eagerly anticipates making new connections with professionals and employers at the Expo, and she’s been well prepared to do so by faculty. Her journey through CWI is a testament to the power of education in shaping careers and opening doors to industry connections.

Breaking New Ground

Before beginning the Horticulture Technology program, O’Neill already had a master’s degree and an established career in human resources and training. However, as a lifelong learner she felt drawn to CWI, not only for the depth of knowledge it offers, but also its flexible scheduling.

“The first course I took was a bit of a ‘test,’” O’Neill said. “I wanted to see if going back to school later in life and investigating the quality of the program was the right move. After that, I was hooked! Excellent instructors, fantastic curriculum, and diverse opportunities.”

O’Neill, now in her second year, has embraced every aspect of the program, finding inspiration in the breadth of knowledge and career possibilities it presents. From courses in Soil Science to Landscape Maintenance, she has expanded her understanding of plant propagation, crop production, and industry best practices. While she remains open to various career pathways, she credits the program with introducing her to numerous possibilities. “Every class broadens my perspective and opens doors to diverse career applications. Ask me next semester — I might have a new favorite direction!”

Ready to Sprout

CWI’s Horticulture Technology program is designed to provide students with both theoretical and hands-on experience. The curriculum immerses students in greenhouse operations, edible landscapes, and essential industry skills, preparing them for careers in landscaping, farm, ranch, and greenhouse management, and nursery operations. With flexible options, starting at a certificate level, all the way to a two-year degree, graduates are well-positioned to enter Idaho’s growing horticulture industry.

Industry leaders recognize the impact of CWI’s program in developing skilled professionals. Jacqueline Correnti, Education and Outreach Specialist for the Idaho Nursery & Landscape Association, highlights the program’s growing influence. “The new Agricultural Sciences Complex is a perfect example of how CWI continues to enhance its programs, especially in agriculture and horticulture,” she said. “With on-site fields, barns, and experimental labs, students will gain real-world experience, making them more competitive and better prepared for employment in a variety of allied fields.” As a CWI graduate, Correnti speaks from first-hand experience.

Cultivating Results

For O’Neill, the support from faculty and fellow students has been instrumental in her success. She acknowledges the initial challenge of returning to school but emphasizes how the program’s community helped her transition. “I had to be patient with myself as I learned the CWI system and adapted to student life again. The instructors do their very best to help students succeed, regardless of their situation,” she said.

Her dedication to learning is already yielding results. “I feel like the knowledge I’ve gained at CWI has been my biggest accomplishment,” O’Neill said. “I’ve learned about analyzing research, industry trends, best practices, and the importance of community. This program doesn’t just teach horticulture; it teaches us how to be successful in the industry.”

Ripe with Opportunity

Careers in horticulture are abundant, with strong job growth projected in several related fields. Landscaping and groundskeeping workers, for example, have an estimated 1,434 annual openings in Idaho, with a median hourly wage of $16.77. First-line supervisors of landscaping and groundskeeping workers see a median hourly wage of $22.88 and a projected job growth rate of 22.8% from 2021 to 2031. More detailed data is available on the Horticulture and Agriculture pages. With opportunities in nurseries, greenhouses, and agricultural management, graduates of CWI’s programs have a promising future ahead.

Investment Yields Growth

CWI’s investment in its Horticulture program is evident in its commitment to modern facilities and industry connections. The Agricultural Sciences Complex, set to open in Summer 2025, will offer cutting-edge resources such as greenhouses, experimental labs, and common areas for students to collaborate and grow their expertise. These advancements ensure that students like O’Neill have access to the latest tools and knowledge to thrive in their careers.

As she continues toward her goal of completing the program, O’Neill remains confident in her future. While she is not currently working in the field, she has no doubt that opportunities will arise upon graduation. “Be committed to the program and you will succeed,” she advises future students. “It takes hard work, but it’s worth it. Ask for guidance, embrace the journey, and enjoy the experience.”

With the support of CWI’s dedicated faculty, industry partnerships, and state-of-the-art facilities, students like Robin O’Neill are gaining more than an education — they are building careers and connecting with future employers in a thriving industry.

Regardless of age, life stage, education, or career, explore the opportunities that CWI provides for those excited to grow.