College of Western Idaho

April is here, Otters!

As students settle back into classes after spring break, it’s time to refocus and get ready for finals and graduation. Whether you’re wrapping up your first semester or preparing to walk the stage, CWI is here to support you every step of the way.

Let’s finish the semester strong! 💪 💪

Mark your calendars—CWI Giving Day is April 10! 🎉

Every donation, big or small, helps provide scholarships, workforce training, and vital resources for students right here in our community.

By giving early, you’re helping open doors and create opportunities for more than 30,000 students working toward a better future cwi.edu/givingday

Together, we can make a lasting impact—because when our students succeed, our entire community thrives. 💙

College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Surgical First Assisting program recently completed its annual two-week surgical lab—an immersive experience that prepares students for real-world success in the OR.

Each March, the lab transforms into a simulated surgical setting where students practice critical skills like suturing, vessel tying, laparoscopic techniques, and patient positioning. The experience wraps up with a Casting and Splinting Clinic and Mock Surgery Day, allowing students to demonstrate their skills in action.

“This two-week lab is critical for our students to develop their practiced skill set prior to transitioning into their new role,” said Program Director Rob Blackston.

Hands-on experiences like this ensure CWI grads are confident, capable, and ready to support surgical teams across the healthcare field.

Read the full story: https://cwi.edu/news/news-room/cwi-surgical-assisting-students-hone-skills-during-annual-lab-immersion

No deadlines, just good vibes 😎

CWI will be closed during Spring Break. Enjoy the week off, and come back energized to tackle the rest of the semester.

Feeling lucky? 🍀

Whether it’s acing that exam, finding a parking spot, or just good vibes all around—today’s your day!

Stay golden, wear some green, and let the luck roll in. ✨

The future of automotive technology is electric! ⚡

Idaho State Representative Clay Handy visited the College of Western Idaho (CWI) Automotive program to see the real-world electric vehicles students are being trained on.

Department Chair JohnD Thompson and Instructor Brian Proehl, showcased the hands-on training with a Tesla battery that students have been learning with—a 1,000-pound, liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery with over 350 volts and 57.5 kWh of power.

CWI is preparing the next generation of skilled automotive technicians!

Choose CWI for your general education credits. With solid support and smart value, you’ll be perfectly positioned to transfer and continue your educational journey.

Start here, go anywhere. https://cwi.edu

From challenges to craftsmanship—Reagan Heffelfinger’s journey to becoming a machinist is nothing short of inspiring!

A lifelong love of working with metal led Reagan to CWI’s Machine Tool Technology program, but her path wasn’t easy. Facing unexpected health challenges and navigating different career paths, she finally found her fit in machining. With support from her instructors and peers, she learned to shape raw metal into something both useful and beautiful.

“Metal doesn’t want to be carved. My job is to make it into something meaningful, and I’m good at it,” Reagan shared.

Join us in celebrating Reagan’s journey and the hands-on education that’s transforming futures at CWI!

Read her story: https://cwi.edu/news/news-room/shaping-metal-defying-odds-cwi-graduates-path-success

Big things are happening for Career & Technical Education (CTE) in Idaho! Governor Brad Little officially proclaimed February as CTE Month, and CWI was proud to be part of the celebration at the Capitol!

Our student, Jose, had the incredible opportunity to represent CWI and highlight the impact of CTE programs in preparing students for real-world careers. From hands-on training to industry-recognized credentials, CTE is shaping the next generation of skilled professionals and driving Idaho’s workforce forward.

We’re proud to offer programs that equip students with the tools they need for career success.

Let’s keep the momentum going this CTE Month!

☀️ Let's talk about summer ☀️

Summer class registration opens Monday, Feb. 24. If you've never looked into the benefits if taking a summer class, now is the time to do it!

Schedule an appointment with our advisors or head to onestop to get the conversation started. This may lead to something great 🦦 💚

https://cwi.edu/one-stop-student-services

Happy Presidents Day — take time today to learn about the leaders of the United States.

College of Western Idaho will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17, for the holiday. Classes and offices will reopen Tuesday, Feb. 18.

Don’t forget—there’s still time to register for CWI’s Spring 8-week session! 📚

Whether you’re looking to add a class or get started, these fast-paced classes are the perfect way to stay on track.

Secure your spot today!

https://cwi.edu/registration-records/8-week-sessions