Key Takeaways
- Central Oregon Community College (COCC) has been awarded a $2.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education.
- The grant will be used to develop short-term certificates for manufacturing technology, including seven new stackable certificate pathways.
- The certificates will include entry-level fabricator, structural steel welder, computer numerical control operator, and industrial maintenance.
- COCC community partners, such as BasX Solutions and Nosler, will be involved in the process, influencing curriculum design and internship development.
- The funding will support hiring faculty and staff, purchasing equipment and technology, and improving data systems for Pell eligibility and tracking student outcomes.
Introduction to the Grant
Central Oregon Community College has been awarded a significant grant of $2.2 million from the U.S. Department of Education’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education. This grant is specifically designed to support the development of high-quality short-term programs, and COCC is one of only 22 colleges or universities nationwide to receive this funding. The grant will be used to create new certifications in manufacturing technology, which will provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field. The certifications will be designed to be stackable, allowing students to build on their skills and knowledge as they progress through the program.
Details of the Certifications
The seven new stackable certificate pathways that will be developed using the grant funding include entry-level fabricator, structural steel welder, computer numerical control operator, and industrial maintenance. These certifications will be designed to meet the specific needs of the manufacturing industry, and will provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in these fields. COCC community partners, such as BasX Solutions and Nosler, will be involved in the process, influencing curriculum design and internship development. This will ensure that the certifications are relevant and effective in preparing students for careers in manufacturing.
Impact on the College and Community
The grant funding will have a significant impact on COCC and the local community. The college plans to use the funding to hire faculty and staff, purchase equipment and technology, and improve data systems for Pell eligibility and tracking student outcomes. Additionally, COCC is planning a complete remodel of its training center at the Redmond campus, which will add more than 13,000 square feet to the workspace. This will provide students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, and will help to support the growth of the manufacturing industry in the region. The college anticipates that at least 250 students will enroll in the certificate programs, which will help to address the need for skilled workers in the manufacturing industry.
Benefits for Students
The new certifications will provide students with a range of benefits, including access to in-demand careers, increased earning potential, and improved job prospects. The certifications will be designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing students to balance their studies with work and other responsibilities. Additionally, the certifications will be stackable, allowing students to build on their skills and knowledge as they progress through the program. This will provide students with a clear pathway for career advancement and will help to support their long-term career goals. The involvement of COCC community partners will also provide students with access to internship and job opportunities, helping to ensure that they are well-prepared for the workforce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the $2.2 million grant awarded to COCC will have a significant impact on the college and the local community. The funding will be used to develop new certifications in manufacturing technology, which will provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field. The certifications will be designed to be stackable, flexible, and accessible, and will provide students with access to in-demand careers, increased earning potential, and improved job prospects. The involvement of COCC community partners will help to ensure that the certifications are relevant and effective, and will provide students with access to internship and job opportunities. Overall, the grant funding will help to support the growth of the manufacturing industry in the region, and will provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field.
