In January, the College of Western Idaho (CWI) Machine Tool Technology program received a generous donation from the Micro 100 Tool Corporation, which provided over 1,000 tools for use by students in the program.
“This gift has a significant, ongoing impact on our program,” says Machine Tool Technology Program Chair, Dave Sperry. “Micro 100 has supported our students and the Machine Tool Technology program dating back to being part of Boise State University’s Selland College. We are so grateful for the continued commitment they have made to helping us provide a skilled, trained workforce.”
In addition to the donation, Micro 100 also conducts a federally approved apprenticeship program certified by the Department of Labor and Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, that has employed five CWI Machine Tool Technology graduates to date. The program provides paid apprenticeship opportunities while students complete an Associate of Applied Science degree at CWI and potentially a Bachelor’s of Applied Science degree at Boise State University, before continuing with four years of employment at Micro 100 after graduation.
“Our relationship with Micro 100 really has touched all aspects of our program,” says Sperry. “Take one of our former students, Eric Dahlen, for example. He was a state and national gold medal winner in the SkillsUSA Precision Machining competition in 2009. Now, not only is he employed at Micro 100, but he is also a judge for SkillsUSA competitions. It goes to show that partners like Micro 100 truly are making the learning environment so much more complete for our students.”
For more information on supporting CWI programs and students please visit the CWI Foundation website.