CWC, Lander partner to provide career options for students

The Central Wyoming College Lander Center and Lander School District 1 have partnered to provide students at Pathfinder and Lander Valley High School new career options.

The students are attending Facilities Maintenance Technician (FMT) classes at the CWC Sinks Canyon Center four mornings each week and can work on a credential, certificate or Associate of Applied Science degree while achieving their core high school requirements.

Classes began at the start of the 2012 fall semester, and the tuition and fees are covered through the CWC BOCHES dual and concurrent enrollment program.

Pathfinder Principal Kathy Hitt and CWC Director of Lander Operations Ken Colovich formed the partnership to provide the students a career path which incorporates both soft and technical skills.

“Students learn how to be successful in a college setting,” Colovich said, explaining the students learn a variety of technical skills in addition to writing an effective resume, working as a team and learning how to interview for employment with confidence.

Through this program, the participating students learn technical skills including residential, commercial and industrial electricity, industrial mechanics, building maintenance, workplace safety, energy and environmental management, including weatherization; small engine repair, ground maintenance as well as heating, ventilation and air conditioning maintenance.

Students learn by working on a variety of projects at a 32-by-48 foot maintenance shop at the Sinks Canyon Center.

Students who are 16 years and older also have the opportunity to apply course hours from specific FMT classes toward the Wyoming State Fire Marshal’s low voltage or limited technician license, Colovich said. The students also acquire leadership skills necessary for supervisory positions.