The Nampa Campus Academic [2]Building [2] at College of Western Idaho (CWI) was bustling with excitement on Friday, May 3, as Grad Fest took center stage, marking the commencement festivities for CWI graduates and their supporters. The annual extravaganza was filled with activities, food, and heartfelt celebrations.

The party featured food from BIG Daddy’s Barbeque [3], photo opportunities courtesy of Alpha-Lit [4], cap decorating courtesy of CWI Foundation [5], giant yard games and an inflatable obstacle course, music and a DJ provided by Rocky Mountain Roll [6], merchandise from the CWI Bookstore, giveaways, grand prize drawings, and more.

There was even more to celebrate at this year’s Grad Fest as CWI’s Workforce Development [7] hosted Certificate Celebrations for their Electrical [8], HVAC [9], and Plumbing [10] Apprenticeship graduates.

Each of the three apprenticeship programs had its certificate celebration where over 250 apprentices received their certificate of completion from their respective four-year program.

• HVAC – 66 apprentices
• Electrical – 145 apprentices
• Plumbing – 66 apprentices

All student apprentices are required to have a minimum of 576 hours of classroom (in-person or online) training to complete a four-year program. Workforce Development also aims to have students earn 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience throughout their four years to be able to take Idaho’s Occupational and Professional License exam to become a licensed Journeymen.

Also celebrated were dozens who worked diligently to complete their GED — prepared now for higher education and future career growth. 

Lastly, Hispanic student graduates were honored at Nuestra Celebración — family and friends in attendance — with each student receiving a unique stole to wear at Commencement representing their achievement.

With hundreds in attendance and a good time had by all, 2024 Grad Fest was a success!

Next up is CWI’s Commencement, which will bring together and recognize this year's degree, certificate, GED, and apprenticeship graduates as they walk across the ExtraMile Arena [11] stage on Friday, May 10.

For those with questions or in need of more information, visit the Commencement page [12].