College of Western Idaho (CWI) recently concluded its Summer CTE Bridge Program, a week-long enrichment and skills development initiative for current high school juniors. This program offered participants hands-on instruction, workshops, and industry tours, allowing them to explore different career pathways and kick start their future education.
The program featured two main tracks. Track One included Automotive Technology, Heavy-Duty Truck Technician, Welding, Machine Tool, and Powersports and Small Engine Repair. Track Two covered Mechatronics, Computer Animation, Cybersecurity, Cisco Networking & Security Technologies, and Computer Science. Throughout the week, CWI faculty members from various Career and Technical Education programs engaged with students, introducing them to various skills and practices included in the programs.
Students in the Transportation and Manufacturing Track started their week by learning basic welding and machining skills. They then worked with powersports equipment, running it through a dynamometer. The week culminated in a day focused on heavy-duty trucks, where students got their hands dirty removing wheels and working on truck brake systems.
Meanwhile, students in the Electronics and Computer Systems Track began their week with lessons on Cybersecurity and Networking, building their own miniature computers. The following day, they focused on building and programming Microcontrollers. The week concluded with computer drafting and animation.
All students came together for the last two days of the camp to enjoy industry tours related to the different tracks and programs offered by CWI. The week ended on a high note with food, games, and a debriefing session, leaving students with a deeper understanding of potential career paths and valuable hands-on experience.
