Governor Brad Little has declared February as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month in Idaho, recognizing the important role CTE plays in preparing students for in-demand careers and strengthening the state’s workforce. At College of Western Idaho (CWI), this proclamation reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to workforce-connected learning and student success.
With 45 CTE programs, CWI provides hands-on, career-focused training designed to meet the evolving needs of Idaho’s industries. From technical skills to real-world application, CTE programs equip students with the knowledge, experience, and credentials needed to enter the workforce with confidence.
CWI’s impact is reflected in strong student outcomes and meaningful employer partnerships. CWI graduates have a 94.3 percent positive placement rate, demonstrating the effectiveness of programs aligned with workforce demand. During the 2024-2025 academic year, more than 2,245 students were enrolled in CTE programs, gaining hands-on experience connected directly to industry needs.
Committed to empowering the community through CTE, CWI partners with businesses across Idaho to deliver hands-on, workforce-aligned training. These partnerships allow students to build industry-specific skills, earn certifications, work while they learn, and access flexible schedules and tuition assistance.
Governor Little signed the CTE Month proclamation on Tuesday, Feb. 3, alongside CWI Law Enforcement student Anna Johnson, Dean of Industry, Engineering, and Trades Pat Neal, Idaho Division of Career Technical Education, and other CTE students from across the state. For Johnson, CTE programs have opened new doors and helped shape her path forward.
“CTE Month means a great deal to me because it highlights the value of hands-on learning and the direct pathways CTE programs create toward meaningful careers,” said Johnson. “Through the Law Enforcement program, I’ve gained real-world skills, mentorship, and confidence that go far beyond the classroom and have helped shape me both professionally and personally.”
“Representing CWI during CTE Month was truly an honor,” Johnson added. “Being able to share my experiences and advocate for the impact of CTE programs reinforced how important these opportunities are for students who are passionate about serving their communities and pursuing careers with purpose.”
In addition to Law Enforcement, CWI offers a wide range of CTE programs, including Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology, Automotive Technology, Cybersecurity, Digital Photography, Practical Nursing, and many more. For students looking to advance their careers, CWI’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration builds on technical training and is tailored for those already in the workforce. These programs are designed to provide hands-on training, access to industry-standard equipment, and instruction from faculty with real-world experience.
Interested in exploring hands-on, comprehensive career training? Discover how CWI’s CTE programs provide the skills and competitive edge today’s employers are looking for.
