This summer, 22 high school juniors from across the Treasure Valley stepped into the world of Career and Technical Education (CTE) during College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) CTE Summer Bridge Program. Held annually, the weeklong event offers students a unique opportunity to explore in-demand careers, gain hands-on experience, and make lasting connections — all before their senior year of high school begins.
Students were divided into two learning tracks based on their interests. Track one introduced the students to hands-on training in Automotive Technology, Powersports and Small Engine Repair, Collision Repair Technology, Heavy Equipment Technician, Heavy-Duty Truck Technician, and Machine Tool Technology. Track two focused on Cisco Networking and Security Technologies, Drafting Technology, and Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology. Each program area provided interactive, skills-based learning in state-of-the-art labs, guided by CWI faculty and staff.
In addition to career exploration, students visited CWI’s Entrepreneurship Lab to learn how to turn ideas into business ventures and attended workshops hosted by the College’s Work-Based Learning Center, Admissions, and Financial Aid teams to help them plan their future educational pathways.
"The Summer Bridge Program is more than just a peek into CTE programs — it's about equipping students with experiences that help them envision their future," said Denise Aberle-Cannata, CWI Provost.
Students also had plenty of opportunities to build friendships and team skills through a series of challenges and icebreakers, including Tug-of-War, the Hula Hoop Pass, a Rock Paper Scissors Showdown, and a Balancing Nail and Circuit Board STEM challenges.
The week also included exciting industry tours to Micron, Lyle Pearson Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Dealership, and Greyloch, giving students a firsthand look at local employers and the real-world application of the skills they explored.
To wrap up the event, students gathered for a celebratory BBQ, DJ-hosted dance party, and volleyball game. The program concluded with remarks from Provost Aberle-Cannata and a Dual Credit presentation to help students understand how they can earn college credit while finishing high school.
The CTE Summer Bridge Program is designed to inspire students to pursue education and careers in high-demand, high-wage fields, while supporting their transition from high school to college.
