CWI News – April 25, 2025
In the Spotlight

To celebrate the generosity and support of those that give to scholarship, The Foundation of College of Western Idaho (CWI) hosted Impactful Connections on April 24, where donors and student scholarship recipients were given a chance to meet in person. From the speakers to those in attendance, emotions ran high as gratitude was expressed and received.
CWI in the News
News Highlights
10 Years of Connections at CWI
The College of Western Idaho (CWI) hosted its 10th annual Connections Project on April 24 at the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), celebrating a decade of student creativity, research, and innovation. The event provided a platform for students across all areas of study to showcase their hard work through posters, presentations, artwork, and more.
Designed to highlight academic and creative achievements, the Connections Project invited the entire CWI community to explore a wide variety of student projects. From hands-on demonstrations to research posters and recorded talks, the event once again demonstrated the impressive talents and passions of CWI students.
Connections Excellence Award Winners
Chalk Art Competition:
– Caleb Chereji
Logo:
– Megan Smith
Juried Art:
– India Dockery, Self Portrait
HASS Posters:
3rd Place – Mikeila Renwick, Phillis Wheatley
2nd Place – Meggie Hudson, Individual Actions for Suicide Prevention
1st Place – Wesley Dunow, Enneagram Personality Framework
STEM Posters:
3rd Place – Helen Neves, Differences in Urban Bird Diversity Between Parks & Wildlife Reserves
2nd Place – Sheyenne Casebolt & Alicia Addison, Daphnia’s Heart Rate in Monster and Red Bull Energy Drinks
1st Place – Nathaniel Walker, How Does Temperature Affect Pollinator Biodiversity in the Campus Garden?
HASS Recorded Mini Talks:
3rd Place – Halle Sheets, Empowering Others Through Servant Leadership
2nd Place – Jared Kartel, The Power of Peer Support
1st Place – Spencer Martin, Imposter Phenomenon & Publishing as an Undergrad
STEM Recorded Mini Talks:
2nd Place – Nahum Dass, Mathematical Analysis of the Gateway Arch
1st Place – Makayla Echevarria, Bipolar Disorder: Myths and Facts
HASS Live Mini Talks:
3rd Place – Angel Carrera, I Joined the Military to Help My Mom Stay – That Shouldn’t Be the Only Way
2nd Place – Jonna Houck, Ethical Analysis: Immigration Rights and Deportation Policies
1st Place – Lindsay Bennett, Wild Horse and Burro Project: Rebranding American Heritage: Innovative Solutions for Reducing Public Spending on Long-Term Holding
STEM Live Mini Talks:
3rd Place – Caelan Lampe, When Art Inspires Math
2nd Place – Hannah May, Measuring the Width of Human Hair Using Light
1st Place – Dylan Hoag, Stockbot From Code to Cash
Other Cool Stuff:
3rd Place – Cassandra Conner, Emergency Self-Care Plan
2nd Place – Brandon Solotky, Eight Welded Pieces
1st Place – AvaMarie Madrigal, Reflections of Stillness
Clubs:
– Psychology Club, Jared Kartel and Jordan Hamilton, Introduction to Mindfulness
Enrichment Groups:
– Psi-Beta, Jared Kartel, Jordan Hamilton, and Spencer Martin, Understanding Stigma, Identity, and Academic Experiences in Community College Students: Insights from CWI Compared to National Trends
CWI’s Big Gaming Battle
Join College of Western Idaho (CWI) on Saturday, May 3, from 6 – 9 p.m., for an electrifying evening of esports fun hosted by the Gaming Club at CWI. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just getting started, this event is open to everyone. You only need to register to participate. Competitors must be 18 years or older.
Gaming Club Tournament
Saturday, May 3
6 – 9 p.m.
Ada County Campus Pintail Building (APIN) in Boise (near the corner of Maple Grove Road and Overland Road)
What’s in store?
- Battle it out in Rocket League, the fast-paced vehicular soccer game loved by many.
- Challenge yourself in the buzzworthy Marvel Rivals, an exciting new team-based game.
- Get engaged leading up to the event with special Pokémon GO community engagements.
Unable to join in person?
Catch all the action live on CWI’s official Twitch channel.
This tournament is about more than just gaming. It is also about growing engagement in the esports community at CWI and connecting with Boise’s tech and coding enthusiasts. Don’t miss this chance to game, compete, and connect. Register now to play, or come cheer on participants live!
Nearing 1,000 Program Graduates, CWI Celebrates 15 Years of Innovation in IT
To mark 15 years of achievement and impact, College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Information Technology (IT) programs welcomed faculty, students, alumni, and industry representatives to a celebratory showcase at the Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN) on April 22. The event highlighted the programs’ growth, academic excellence, and lasting influence on Idaho’s tech workforce.
CWI President Gordon Jones opened the event with remarks recognizing the faculty’s dedication and the transformative opportunities these programs have created for students across the Treasure Valley. “This celebration isn’t just about looking back — it’s about the incredible potential ahead,” Jones shared, addressing attendees that included Provost Denise Aberle-Cannata; Dean of Science, Technology, and Math, Kae Jensen; department leaders; and many student graduates now thriving in industry roles.
The celebration featured breakout sessions for each IT focus area — from Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science to Software Development and Cybersecurity — offering guests an in-depth look at the curriculum and real-world applications students engage in.
A key highlight of the event was the showcase of program success statistics:
- Nearly 1,000 associate degrees awarded in IT.
- Over 2,500 certification exams proctored, with pass rates consistently above national averages — including a 95% pass rate for Python certification and an 86% pass rate for Microsoft MCP exams.
- CWI’s Cybersecurity program earned the prestigious National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD) designation by the NSA in 2023.
- Students have brought home more than 175 national medals from Business Professionals of America (BPA) and SkillsUSA competitions since 2010.
Graduates of CWI’s IT programs that were in attendance have launched careers with a variety of prominent employers, including Ericsson, Idaho Youth Ranch, CompuNet, Acosta, Scentsy, St. Luke’s, Power Engineers, KBOI, Horrocks Engineering, Valleywide, and the State of Idaho Controller Office — demonstrating the programs’ strong alignment with workforce demands.
As technology continues to evolve, CWI remains committed to preparing students for emerging fields like automation, esports management, and artificial intelligence. The success of the past 15 years is only the beginning, with faculty and industry partners working together to shape a future-focused curriculum that meets the needs of Idaho’s economy.
CWI offers a wide range of programs for students passionate about technology. Explore more below.
Beam Signing for New Student Success Center
As we approach the completion of the steel installation for our new CapEd Student Success Center, ESI will be placing the final beam next week on April 30.
We invite you to participate in this milestone by signing the beam that will crown the new building. This piece represents more than just the final structural element — it stands as a symbol of growth, innovation, and the strong sense of community that defines College of Western Idaho (CWI). By signing it, you’re celebrating your vital role in supporting the success of our students.
Details for Signing
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Thursday, April 24 – Tuesday, April 29
Facilities Office Parking, Willow Building A, (next to the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB))
Pens will be available at the Facilities Office for anyone who would like to sign the beam. This is a chance to leave your mark on a project impacting students and our community for generations.
Join us for a brief, informal gathering on Wednesday, April 30, at 10 a.m., as ESI installs the signed beam for the new CapEd Student Success Center. Faculty and staff are invited to come to watch this special moment in the building’s progress.
Unlock New Skills at CWI’s 2025 Summer Camps
This summer, College of Western Idaho (CWI) is offering engaging and educational summer camps designed to provide high school students with hands-on learning experiences in technology, cybersecurity and more. With opportunities to build skills, connect with peers, and even earn college credit, these camps are a perfect way to make the most of the summer break.
CYBER SUMMER CAMP
Dive into the world of computing and cybersecurity at CWI’s Cyber Summer Camp. This week-long camp introduces students, grades 7 – 10, to computer hardware, operating systems, and the fundamentals of cybersecurity through interactive activities. Attendees will explore gamified cybersecurity education, learn about hackers and cybersecurity threats, and gain valuable hands-on experience.
Dates: June 23 – 27
Times: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), Room 1425
Cost: $200/per student, grades 7 – 12 (scholarships available)
Registration: Register by Wednesday, June 18
SUMMER BRIDGE CAMP
CWI’s Summer Bridge Camp is a week-long enrichment and skills development program designed for current 11th-grade students interested in exploring careers in Computer Science/Engineering, Automotive/Manufacturing, and Health Sciences. Participants will engage in two classes each day, leadership development workshops, and off-campus industry tours tailored to their chosen field. The program also includes career preparation sessions, guest speaker presentations, and an empowerment workshop. Students will have the opportunity to connect with CWI faculty, staff, and peers through interactive activities and icebreakers. Breakfast, lunch, and transportation for off-campus visits will be provided.
Date: July 7 – 11
Time: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC)
Cost: FREE
Registration: Register by Friday, May 16
Jose Martinez Finds His Future in Automotive Technology
CWI - Let's Get Started | Automotive
This is a true story about someone from our community who, despite long odds and those saying, “you can’t,” stood defiant and dared to anyway — launching a new career that began at College of Western Idaho.
This is the second of a series of stories from our Let’s Get Started 2.0 spring recruitment campaign. In it we feature innovators, builders, healers, and protectors, each of which capably demonstrate what’s possible when we exercise a grain of grit. After all, if our neighbors can do it, so can you.
Always Under the Hood
Jose Martinez’s love for cars began in his hometown of Bellevue, Idaho. As a child, he was captivated by vehicles — a fascination that quickly turned into hands-on experience during high school. “Whenever I could, I was under the hood,” Martinez recalled. “First with my own vehicles and then others’.”
That early interest paved the way for his decision to pursue automotive technology as a career. When it came time to consider post-secondary education, he knew a traditional four-year university wasn’t the right path. “I found out that CWI had an automotive program, and that grabbed my attention,” he said. “I’ve always had a love for cars and trucks, and it was a perfect fit.”
Hands-On Learning and Real-World Experience
Now in his second year at College of Western Idaho (CWI), Martinez is thriving in the Automotive Technology program. Designed to prepare students for employment in the automotive repair industry, the program blends classroom instruction with hands-on training in a state-of-the-art lab environment. Students gain practical experience diagnosing and repairing everything from engines and brake systems to electrical components and emissions controls.
“CWI had exactly what I needed,” said Martinez. “I knew that I wanted to become a real technician and help people with their vehicles.”
In addition to learning how vehicles work, Martinez enjoys the process of solving problems — especially when it comes to the complex technology found in today’s cars. “There’s so much technology and so many systems that it can get very complicated, but I love chasing the problem,” he said. “In this field you never stop learning.”
Overcoming Challenges with Support
Transitioning immediately from high school to adulthood while juggling work and school responsibilities wasn’t easy. Martinez faced the realities of budgeting, time management, and a demanding academic schedule all at once. Fortunately, he found support in CWI’s faculty and learning environment.
“My professors always listen and give me good advice,” he said. “They want me to succeed as a person and that’s not limited to just in the classroom.”
He also leaned on his family, who remained his strongest source of motivation. “They’ve done so much for me and helped me when things got tough,” said Martinez. “I’ll always be grateful for their support.”
Success at School and in the Field
CWI’s Automotive Technology program is driven to open doors for students and build a connected community, both through high-quality education and by facilitating introductions between students and local businesses. With a strong focus on standards, safety, and certifications like ASE (Automotive Service Excellence), students are enabled to enter the workforce with confidence.
For Martinez, the result was landing a job at the Mercedes-Benz dealership in Boise while still enrolled in the program. Working part time, he’s able to apply what he’s learning in real time, gaining valuable experience with one of the most recognized names in the automotive industry.
“Getting that job while still a student has been huge for me,” he said.
Advice for Future Technicians
As he continues to build his career, Martinez has a message for students just starting out: “Don’t give up,” he said. “Things are going to get hard and difficult, but you can’t give up the first time. Hard work does pay off, and it will. You just have to trust the process.”
For those who share his love of vehicles and want a career rooted in hands-on problem solving, Martinez’s journey is proof that success is possible — with the right support, training, and determination.
Turn your passion for cars into a career. Explore CWI’s Automotive Technology program today.
Rewiring Her Future: Kathleen Burns-Wick’s Mechatronics Journey
As Idaho’s tech industry expands, the demand for mechatronics technicians is rising. To educate people about Mechatronics — a new term for many — and attract new students to the Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program, CWI has launched a new marketing initiative called “What is Mechatronics.” This student feature is one part of that campaign.
From Art to Automation
For those wanting a career on the front lines of innovation, Mechatronics provides that and more, blending mechanics, electronics, and automation into one dynamic field. From robotics and smart systems to advanced manufacturing, this rapidly growing field offers students a gateway to high-demand, high-tech careers and students like Kathleen Burns-Wick have chosen it for that reason.
Before studying Mechatronics at College of Western Idaho (CWI), Burns-Wick earned a degree in Art Education. But her interest in engineering and automation was sparked in an unexpected way — by watching her husband, Lee, go through the very program she would soon call her own.
“A few years back, my husband was in the Mechatronics program, and I kept finding myself getting interested in what he was learning,” she said. “Even before he’d graduated, I decided that Mechatronics was the career path I wanted to take.”
Learning to Solve Real-World Problems
Now in her final semester at CWI and preparing to graduate in May 2025 with an Associate of Applied Science Degree, Burns-Wick has not only embraced the technical rigor of the program but is thriving in it. The Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program, referred to as Mechatronics, teaches students how to work with robotics, electrical systems, and automated equipment — skills that are powering some of the fastest-growing industries in the nation.
“Right now, we’re learning about Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and I’m really enjoying it,” she shared.
Though excited by the material, the transition hasn’t always been easy. With no prior experience in STEM fields, Burns-Wick initially felt out of place.
“There’s so much the program strives to give you, and that requires you to find a balance,” she explained. “I’ve had to adopt new study techniques. I now read and take notes completely differently. I’ve discovered how to learn faster, and I’ve grown more comfortable doing it.”
A Career with Endless Possibilities
Students like Burns-Wick are preparing to enter a high-demand, high-tech workforce. The field of Mechatronics blends mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to support advanced manufacturing, robotics, and automation — industries seeing steady job growth in Idaho and across the U.S. due to investments like Micron’s $15 billion semiconductor fabrication expansion in Boise.
Graduates can pursue careers as industrial maintenance technicians, automation technicians, robotics technicians, or even mechatronics engineers. Job growth in these roles' ranges from 10% to 25% through 2030, depending on specialization. Mechatronics professionals are in demand in sectors like aerospace, renewable energy, semiconductor manufacturing, and smart technologies.
Support, Growth, and Giving Back
Despite the steep learning curve, Burns-Wick found encouragement through her instructors and classmates.
“I’ve often felt like I was hearing and reading a completely different language, but the instructors and my classmates have helped me every step of the way,” she said.
She now works part time as an embedded tutor at CWI, helping others navigate the same challenges she once faced.
“I’m always so thankful for the help I receive from tutors and, by tutoring myself, I have a way to pass that gratitude forward.”
Advice for Future Students
At CWI, students don’t just pursue exciting and challenging programs — they become part of a connected community, supported by dedicated faculty, fellow students, and a wide range of resources and services designed to ensure their success.
To future students considering the program, she offers honest encouragement: “This program will challenge you. Stay on top of your work. If you ever feel confused, frustrated, or overwhelmed, know that you are not alone. What you’re learning isn’t easy — and that’s why your degree is valuable.”
For Burns-Wick, Mechatronics isn’t just a new career — it’s a lifelong skillset rooted in adaptability and innovation.
“This program gives you the opportunity to learn how to solve problems,” she said. “You learn to use what you know to solve something new, and that’s an incredibly valuable skill to carry into the workforce.”
Explore the Mechatronics program and train for a future in advanced technology and innovation.
CWI and Community Unite to Plant 40 Trees for Arbor Day at New Arboretum
College of Western Idaho (CWI) hosted a community-wide Arbor Day celebration on April 16, welcoming over 150 participants to what will be a new arboretum in Nampa for a day of planting and connection. Organized in partnership with the City of Nampa, the event was part of the city’s 27th annual Arbor Day recognition and included the planting of 40 trees representing more than 20 different species.
Students from Birch Elementary School and Rocky Mountain High School joined CWI Horticulture Technology students, faculty, and volunteers from across the community to dig in and make a difference. Among the volunteers were employees from the Amazon Fulfillment Center, Clarity Credit Union, Idaho Power, Peppershock Media, Franz Witte, ESI, Republic Services, and more. Together, this group contributed to what will become Nampa’s first true arboretum.
The new arboretum is located near CWI’s Agricultural Sciences Complex and will serve as a living classroom and community resource. For CWI students, especially those in the Horticulture Technology program, the site represents more than just landscaping — it’s an opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.
Much of the arboretum’s layout and design came from the creativity and hard work of CWI Horticulture Technology students Koti May, Angel Decker, Sarah Hammond, and Keena Rice. With mentorship from faculty and support from community partners, these students helped bring the space to life — an experience that exemplifies CWI’s commitment to hands-on learning and strong connections to industry.
“This Arbor Day event celebrates more than trees — it celebrates growth, learning, and community,” said CWI President Gordon Jones. “These trees, planted with care by students, volunteers, and staff, represent a long-term investment in our campus and our region.”
The event highlighted CWI’s third year as a Tree Campus Higher Education and continued its tradition of working alongside the City of Nampa to promote urban forestry and sustainability.
Countdown to Commencement: Get Your Regalia
Spring graduates, your moment is almost here! As you gear up for College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) 2025 Commencement Ceremony, be sure to take care of one essential detail — your regalia. Now is the time to order everything you need to walk with pride.
Regalia is officially available to purchase at the CWI Bookstore March 31 through May 9, in store during regular store hours or online.
- Full regalia (cap, gown, tassel) – $32.50
- Gown – $21.75
- Cap – $6.00
- Tassel (Associate or GED) – $4.25
- Honor Cord – $11.15
- CWI Stole – $23.70
Grab your gear early while supplies last. This is your time to shine — let’s make sure you look the part.
If you have questions or need help with your order, the CWI Bookstore team can help. Contact them at bookstore@cwi.edu or 208.562.2402.
Congratulations, grads — let the countdown to Commencement begin!
2025 Grad Fest – Let’s Celebrate Our Grads!
Congratulations, 2025 graduates! The time has come to celebrate your accomplishments and prepare to graduate! Gather your friends, family, and classmates, and plan to join us for a good time and good food as we kick off the countdown to College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) 2025 Commencement Ceremony with Grad Fest, Friday, May 9.
GRAD FEST
Friday, May 9
4:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
The event will feature:
- Food from BIG Daddy’s Barbeque
- Photo ops courtesy of Alpha-Lit
- Caps, gowns, and CWI swag for purchase from the CWI Bookstore
- Cap decorating
- Giveaways and grand prize drawings
- Giant yard games
- Inflatable obstacle course
- Caricature artists & face paintings
- Music and a DJ provided by Rocky Mountain Roll
- and more!
In addition to all the fun, CWI’s Workforce Development will also be hosting ceremonies for Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing apprenticeship graduates. There will be guest speakers and students will be presented with their certificates of completion.
APPRENTICESHIP CERTIFICATE CEREMONIES
Friday, May 9
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), Room 102E
- Plumbing | 5:00 – 5:30 p.m.
- Electrical | 6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
- HVAC | 7:00 – 7:30 p.m.
We look forward to celebrating you and seeing you there with your friends, family, and support system!
The event is free and open to the entire CWI community.
For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact Amber Eubanks at ambereubanks@cwi.edu. Visit CWI's graduation page for more information about the 2025 Commencement Ceremony.
2025 Commencement Seeking Volunteers
The 2025 CWI Commencement Ceremony is fast approaching, and we are looking for volunteers to help staff the event and celebrate this important moment with our students!
What Volunteer Help is Needed?
Volunteer shifts vary based on the role assigned. Some positions are busiest during graduate check-in and lineup, while others are more active during the name-reading portion of the ceremony and the recessional.
How Do I Sign Up?
Click below and choose a slot that works best for you. The deadline for selections is April 25.
Additional Information:
Training: We will provide training during the first week of May via Zoom.
Paid Time: While you will be volunteering, this will count as paid time. Please coordinate with your supervisor to adjust your work hours accordingly.
Meals: We’ll provide dinner during your shift.
We are deeply grateful to everyone willing and able to assist with this event. Your support is vital to making the ceremony a success!
Annual CWI Horticulture Plant Sale – May 7
Spruce up your yard and garden this spring with plants grown and cared for by College of Western Idaho (CWI) Horticulture Technology students. The entire CWI community is invited to attend the program's annual plant sale to purchase annuals, perennials, floral hanging baskets, vegetables, herbs, and more.
CWI HORTICULTURE PLANT SALE
Wednesday, May 7
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
CWI Horticulture (HORT), East greenhouses next to the Idaho Firewise Garden in Boise
Offerings include, but are not limited to:
- Flowering annuals for beds, containers, hanging baskets, and cut flowers
- Vegetables – variety of tomatoes, peppers, eggplants
- Herbs – perennial varieties
Bring your own box or container to bring your plants home in. A limited amount of boxes will be available. Cashiers will accept cash, card, or check. Parking is limited.
Questions? Contact Agricultural Sciences Department Chair, Andrea Schumaker, at andreaschumaker@cwi.edu.
Converging Connections: 2025 CWI Capstone Artist Exhibition
Celebrate the artistic and academic achievements of College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Studio Art graduates at the exhibit, Converging Connections, on display, beginning Wednesday, April 16, at Boise State University’s Student Union Building Fine Arts Gallery.
The 2025 CWI Capstone Artist Exhibition celebrates the artistic and academic achievements of these Studio Art graduates: Kaleb Belknap, Thordis Boeker, Chelsea Capps, Alison Colacchio, Wendy Dickinson, Isabel Dominguez, Jessica Fisher, Ari Foy, Jordan Grove, Lakiah Howell, Michelle Jenkins, Mackenzie Macky, Kae Martini, Avery McDonald, Dally McEwen, Shaun Miller, Jacesana Peeples, Emma Prescott, Bryant Varley, and Jordan Wittchow.
The exhibit will run from April 16 – May 12 and can be viewed between 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily. In addition, students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to an opening reception Wednesday, April 16, from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
Opening Reception
Wednesday, April 16
4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Boise State University, Student Union Building Fine Arts Gallery
Converging Connections Exhibition
April 16 – May 12
7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Boise State University, Student Union Building Fine Arts Gallery
CWI’s Studio Art program promotes the development of artistic skills and practice, craftsmanship, and aesthetic discernment. The Associate of Arts degree in Studio Art provides students with a foundational understanding of the history of visual culture, provides opportunities to grow as artists, and prepares students who are interested in transferring to a four–year college or university to complete a bachelor’s degree in Art.
Contact Goran Fazil at goranfazil@cwi.edu to learn more about the College’s Studio Art program or this year’s exhibit.
HR Updates
New Hires / Position Changes
- Linda Kaiser – Sr. Instructional Designer, Workforce Development Admin
Employment Opportunities
Employees can access Internal Job Postings or visit Careers at CWI to view all external listings. Upon application submission, you will receive a confirmation email. If you do not receive an email, check your "Junk/Spam" folder, then email recruiter@cwi.edu to verify receipt of your application.
Note: This is the official communication newsletter for the College. Content is driven by contributions gathered from all areas of CWI. If you have news you would like to submit for this, please use a Marketing Help Desk ticket.