www.gillettecollege.org

Gillette CollegeI n s i de r

A magazine for the Gillette area and friends of Gillette College

Volume Four2 015

CONTENTS

2 GILLETTE COLLEGE

A magazine for the Gillette area and friends of Gillette College

Northern Wyoming Community College District President:

Dr. Paul Young

Gillette College Vice President & CEO:Dr. Mark Englert

NWCCD Board of Trustees:Kati Sherwood, Chair

Norleen Healy, Vice ChairJerry Iekel, Secretary

Robert Leibrich, TreasurerBruce HoffmanR. Scott Ludwig

Walt Wragge

Gillette College Advisory Board:Scott Barstad, Alice Bratton, Ken Chavez,

Dave Ebertz, John Lavrenz, Debby Lawrence, Cary Martin, Joe Maycock, Sherry McGrath,

Nathan McLeland, Carter Napier, Robert Palmer, Vermona Petersen,

John Pettyjohn, Greg Schaefer, Penny Schild, Larry Sjolin, Leta Tanner, Veronica Taylor,

Tracey Wasserburger, Jerry Winter, Boyd Brown, D.G. Reardon

Editor: Wendy Smith

Contributing Writers: Daniel Mediate, Mark Englert, Heidi Gross & Wendy Smith

Photography & Design:Dennis Jacobs

Volume Four2015

Gillette CollegeI n s i de r

I N T H I S I S S U ENursing program: Students, faculty reach new heights ................................................. 4

Scientific interactions with Holly Martin .......................................................................... 6

Rodeo, electricity motivate former Pronghorn standout .............................................. 8

Gillette College plans for the future ..................................................................................10

Your donations make a difference for students ..............................................................12

College to offer new trainings, community education courses ..................................14

Business students thrive at Gillette College ....................................................................16

Gillette College awards ........................................................................................................18

Gillette College facts .............................................................................................................19

Cover photo: Nursing student Heather Folda prepares to weigh seven-month-old Holden Wofford during a pediatric exam at Gillette College.

The Gillette College Insider magazine is an annual publication produced by the Gillette College Marketing and Public Information Office. All rights reserved. Excerpts from this magazine may be reprinted with permission, provided appropriate credit is given to Gillette College and copies of the reprinted material are given to Gillette College.

Contact Gillette College at: 307.686.0254 or visit GC online at: www.gillettecollege.org

MESSAGE

3

From the Vice President & CEO

Dear Friends,

In previous editions of the Insider we’ve devoted space to informing readers of our heritage and introducing various student, faculty and staff, or program exemplars. We’ve introduced a District strategic vision of increasing the number of well-prepared completers by the year 2020. As Gillette College approaches its 50th anniversary (2019) of providing quality higher education courses and programs in Campbell County, we’ve reached a crossroads where it’s time to more clearly articulate program and facilities master plans that will equip and position the college to serve the student of tomorrow.

The Northern Wyoming Community College District and Gillette College have developed a strategic plan that specifically centers our efforts on addressing the tensions and demands that exist when preparing the next generation workforce. Gillette College, with its Advisory Board and Foundation Board, has recently worked to clearly articulate projections for enrollments specific to programs as well as potential staffing needs. The planning includes projections for future capital facilities that not only enhance the esthetics of the college, but contribute to a broader functionality.

We recognize, being true to the community vision, it is imperative to continue the good planning that has transitioned this college from an outreach location offering select courses to a fully developed commuter campus with the introduction of the Main building in 2003, to now a growing residential comprehensive community college, situated as an integral social, cultural and economic driver in Campbell County. Considering county population projections over the next 15 years, current and future projections for public school enrollments in Campbell County, projected retirements across all industry segments in Campbell County and anticipated industry growth areas we will need to address over the next decade and a half, we can, with a high level of confidence,

project enrollments to grow significantly over that same period. Not only will we see increased or steady enrollments in many of our career and technical vanguard programs, such as diesel, welding and nursing, but we see a potential for growth in areas such as business, education, industrial electricity, machining, engineering tech and medical assistant. Growing in these areas will challenge us to be creative in securing and placing faculty and support staff in appropriate areas. It will also challenge us to secure necessary funding to add essential personnel to accommodate our growth.

Additionally, we have analyzed our usable square footage to accommodate classes and programs that will be evolving. Our research indicated our existing

classroom space is used at a higher rate than the national average, given our current enrollments. Simply stated, space is becoming limited. Growing enrollments and growing residential capacity means adding critical square footage. The introduction

of the new Education and Activity Center and the second phase of Student Housing have served as a catalyst for expanding our capital facilities master plan. You will see a campus transitioning from a very good commuter campus to a very good commuter and residential campus. As is the case with personnel and programs, capital facilities require a funding mechanism. The result is a campus that takes advantages of spaces to not only create a pedestrian-friendly campus, but also a campus with facilities suited to serving nearly 2,000 full-time students.

Yours in Education,

Mark Englert, Ph.D. Gillette College Vice President & CEO

Dr. Mark Englert

“You will see a campus transitioning from a very good commuter campus to a very good commuter and resi-dential campus.”

Northern Wyoming Community College District prohibits discrimination in employment, educational programs, and activities on the basis of race, national origin, color, creed, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preference. The District also affirms its commitment to providing equal opportunities and equal access to its facilities. Inquiries concerning Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Section 504, and Americans with Disabilities Act may be referred to the Vice President for Administration, Cheryl Heath, NWCCD’s Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator, Human Rights Officer, (307) 674-6446. Inquiries also may be made to the Office of Civil Rights, U. S. Department of Education, Federal Building, Suite 310, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Denver, CO 80204-3582; 303-844-3417; or TDD 303-844-3417. This publication will be provided in an alternative format upon request.

Check out “The Gillette College Insider” College and Community Magazine online at: www.gillettecollege.org

4 GILLETTE COLLEGE

At 9 years old, Lucas Schipansky knew he had a calling for medicine. His mother had been diagnosed with Stage 4 Lymphoma and he wanted to help.

“Part of my goal, at that time, was to help her, helping with her injections, helping with her care,” Schipansky said.

A precocious, caring boy, he had aspirations to become a doctor. But after doing some research, the nursing field enchanted him.

“The more I studied the differences between medicine and nursing, I found nursing incorporates medicine but it is so much more,” he said. “It is a holistic practice. It takes medicine but it also looks at the whole human being — the mind, body and spirit.”

Schipansky, now 25, is on track to graduate from Gillette College’s Nursing program in May. He has embraced the professional, thoughtful and steadfast nature of nursing since becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant eight years ago.

After graduating Campbell County High School in 2008, Schipansky enrolled in classes at Gillette

College. He changed his major a few times, ultimately earning a degree in Massage Therapy in Sheridan before rekindling his nearly lifelong passion for nursing in Gillette.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT

Lucas Schipansky works at Campbell County Health for his clinical hours as part of the Gillette College Nursing program.

Gillette College nursing students provide pediatric exams for local parents. From left to right (foreground), students Heather Folda and Marla Strgar work with parent Heather Wofford and her son Holden.

Nursing program: Students, faculty reach new heights, impact community

5

“I decided nursing is what I want to do, so I came back and I’m really glad I did,” he said, standing outside the Emergency Room at Campbell County Health in early February.

Schipansky is part of the growing Nursing program at Gillette College. Last fall, the program increased the number of accepted students from 24 to 32 per year, the largest class in the college’s history.

“What makes the Nursing program at Gillette College special is how successful the students are,” said Louise Posten, Director of Nursing. “A lot of what students say after they leave here is that they know when they complete this degree that they are going to have good jobs; it’s going to change their family history.”

The 2014 graduating class had a 95.7 percent pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination to become Registered Nurses. Each graduate who pursued work found employment.

“This last class, 16 of our 24 graduates, went to work here in Gillette,” said Posten, who oversees the program’s seven faculty and two staff members. “We had students accept job offers in Texas, Colorado, Montana and South Dakota. It depends where they want to go. Everybody needs nurses and graduates will be able to provide their families a good living wage.”

Campbell County’s support of the Nursing program has been outstanding, Posten said. Gillette College coordinates with Campbell County Health, which provides funding for faculty positions and trainings, as well as first-choice — and top-notch — clinical experiences for students.

“We have a great partnership with the hospital here in Gillette,” Posten said. “Our students get first choice of clinical placements. It’s a great hands-on

experience for our students. They also allow our faculty to attend continuing education trainings.”

The Nursing program will also benefit from Gillette College’s new Education and Activity Center, which will break ground this spring and feature a nearly 4,000 square-foot nursing simulation lab.

“We are extremely excited about it. I have faculty just chomping at the bit to get into more simulations with students,” Posten said. “It helps hardwire your practice. Our students enjoy simulation.”

After graduation, Schipansky, whose wife Ali is also in the Nursing program, will pursue an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing through Western Governors University. His sights are set on a Master’s degree, building on the foundational

education and skills provided by the Gillette College instructors.

“The Nursing faculty at Gillette College are amazing. Every single one of them is amazing,” Schipansky said. “They are there for every student. Going through clinical processes and courses, you have interaction with each faculty member and every single one is open and willing to help you out.

“After all, they’re nurses — they’re all compassionate; they’re all caring. They genuinely care.”

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT

Gillette College nursing students Dani Lepine (left) and Whitney Byram visit with parent Angel Farnsworth and her daughter Afton.

Marla Strgar weighs a child as part of a pediatric exam.

Scientific interactions at Gillette Collegewith Holly Martin

Holly Martin teaches several science courses at Gillette College. Originally from the Midwest, Holly’s enthusiasm for all things biology, connecting with students and traveling run deep.

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I went to high school in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. I actually graduated high school in three years. Then I went to college in Sioux City, Iowa, at Morningside

College, which is a small, liberal arts school and I swam for four years while I was there. I majored in Biology. Then I went to the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, to get a Master’s in Biology. I focused on Microbiology and Genetics. After that, I worked in a lab there for two years, as a lab manager, studying how bacteria are able to mutate. It has some connections to cancer development and antibiotic resistance.

Then, I came to Gillette in the fall of 2012, and I’ve been working here ever since.

Q: What sparked your interest in science?

A: I’ve always just really wanted to know how things worked. In high school, a Genetics course really stood out; I wanted to learn more. In college, my favorite course was Microbiology — these tiny little bacteria and viruses that you can’t see that have been around for probably billions of years and they just have such an impact on our life, but we don’t really recognize they are there on a day-to-day basis, which is fascinating to me.

Q: Which classes do you teach at Gillette College?

A: I teach a lot. I teach General Biology I and General Biology II. I teach Life Sciences, which is a Biology course for non-majors. I also teach Genetics and Microbiology, which is probably my favorite. I think students really like it too.

Q: What do you like about teaching?

A: I like working with students and working with people. I like that moment when you see a student get it and their eyes light up, it’s addicting. To have those interactions, it’s a lot of fun.

FACULTY HIGHLIGHT

6 GILLETTE COLLEGE

Holly Martin lectures to her Biology class at Gillette College.

Q: What’s the best part about being at Gillette College?

A: The people. I think everyone here is aware of what their job is and they are willing to work hard to help students. It’s great to be among those people.

Q: What would you say to a prospective student interested in Gillette College?

A: Coming to Gillette College is a great opportunity. We have small class sizes, so there’s a lot of one-on-one time. There’s also opportunity to get into research, as a freshman or sophomore, compared to if you attend a larger university, where students wait until their junior or senior years.

Q: What can students hope to gain by taking science courses at Gillette College?

A: One thing that’s great about science, even if you don’t plan to go into science, is that it really teaches you how to approach a problem. You can learn logical thinking skills that will help you in whatever profession you go into, as well as just being able to observe things. You will learn how to use the Scientific Method, which you might not realize will help you in any profession.

Q: Many students have studied science at GC and moved on. What are some of those students doing now?

A: Several students who started at Gillette College are now at the University of Wyoming. A lot of those students like to go into the Wildlife Conservation track, to be a Game Warden or work in a National Forest, or something along those lines. We have several students who go into the medical field.

I just had a student transfer to the University of Hawaii; she’s going pre-med. Another student is at the University of Minnesota and I believe she is studying Neurobiology. You can pretty much take the Associate of Science from Gillette College and go anywhere, whether it’s close to home, or far away.

We offer Associate of Science degrees in Biology and General Science, which I think is a really good option. If you get your general courses out of the way, you can tailor your route wherever you choose to attend for an advanced degree.

Q: Tell us about your passions outside of teaching?

A: I love traveling. I love going to beaches, so kind of the exact opposite of here. My first place I ever went was New Zealand. Recently, I went to Costa Rica. I also play roller derby. I started that last year. It’s a lot of fun.

FACULTY HIGHLIGHT

7

Holly Martin explains an experiment to her Microbiology class at Gillette College.

Gillette College students take notes in Biology class.

When Devan Reilly joined Gillette College’s rodeo team in fall 2012, he didn’t have much background in the sport but he was determined to succeed. Reilly studied the art of bareback riding relentlessly, practicing the moves of the sport’s top performers.

“There is a lot of things you can’t control in rodeo: the draw, the weather or the judges,” he said. “You just have to go out there and leave it all on the line and have fun with it.”

Now, 2 ½ years later, Reilly is a two-time qualifier for the College National Finals Rodeo, using his final year of collegiate eligibility to compete for rodeo powerhouse Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas.

Reilly graduated with honors from Gillette College in May 2014 with a Certificate of Industrial Electricity, before migrating to the Lone Star State. He rodeoed two seasons for the Pronghorns.

“I really liked the rodeo team there,” he said, on the phone from Texas. “Coach Will LaDuke has a great system set up there to compete for the top of the Central Rocky Mountain Region and at the national stage at the CNFR. He’s a good coach.”

Reilly came to Gillette after transferring from an in-state community college to pursue the Industrial Electricity program at Gillette College.

ALUMNI HIGHLIGHT

8 GILLETTE COLLEGE

Industrial Electricity students Kirk Liechti, left, Tyler Barnett, middle, and Devan Reilly, right, troubleshoot a lighting circuit during class at Gillette College.

Devan Reilly rides at the 2014 College National Finals Rodeo.

Rodeo, electricity motivate graduate, former Pronghorn standout Devan Reilly

ALUMNI HIGHLIGHT

“I thought the instructors were very thorough and knowledgeable, always there to help you. They never want to see someone fall behind,” Reilly said. “If you have questions, they are always available after class. They are really committed to getting you on the right track.”

The Industrial Electricity program features two instructors, Ray DeStefano and Tom Shepherd, who are committed to helping students earn their certificates and degrees.

“One of the best parts about being an instructor is watching the students walk across the stage at graduation and get their diploma,” said Shepherd, who has been mentoring students at Gillette College for the past five years, following more than three decades in mining. “When they visit me and tell me they just got a job and they are really excited, it’s rewarding.”

The unique program — the only Industrial Electricity program in Wyoming — supports the local and regional energy industry.

“One, we have a good partnership with local industry; two, we have quality equipment and facilities; and three, we have a positive, caring atmosphere,” DeStefano said. “Those are some of the best things about the Industrial Electricity program.”

The program blends academic course work, including math and science, with lab application in a state-of-the-art setting inside Gillette College’s Technical Education Center.

“Our philosophy is to provide students with a good foundation of skills and basic understanding of electrical theory,” DeStefano said. “After graduation, our students are highly successful in a wide variety of technical, demanding electrical jobs.”

Gillette College also offers evening electrical courses that fulfill the state of Wyoming’s educational requirement for apprentice electricians working toward their journeyman license.

Reilly said he particularly enjoyed the instructors’ efforts to help students comprehend the complexity of the field.

“With electricity, since you can’t see it, the instructors do a great job helping you wrap your mind around the path of electricity to help you better learn and understand it,” he said. “The small class sizes provide a lot of hands-on experience and more time to learn the topic. You also get to know everyone in your classes.”

In preparation for his final collegiate rodeo season, Reilly tested the professional circuit, earning third place at the Mid-Winter Fair Rodeo in January in Lafayette, Louisiana. Admittedly, Reilly is soaking it up: life in sunny Texas, the rodeo circuit and his last year of college.

“Once I’m finished with school this spring I will rodeo full time,” Reilly said. “I have a group of guys to travel with. If it goes well I will stick with it; if it doesn’t after a few years, I have my education from Gillette College to use.”

Student Brad Larson demonstrates a circuit operation.

Instructor Tom Shepherd, right, helps John Sanchez with an electrical theory lab.

9

FUTURE HIGHLIGHT

10

Community meetings, study groups, safety trainings, along with hundreds of students pursuing a college certificate or degree ensures a vibrant campus environment. However, increased activity places even more emphasis on college and community leaders to plan accordingly. The number of full-time degree-seeking students at Gillette College has increased 84 percent over the last 10 years, and will likely continue to grow.

In response to this trend, GC Administration, Campbell County, the City of Gillette, Campbell County Health, CC School District No. 1, GC Foundation, GC Advisory Board and many others have been instrumental in creating a facilities master plan and shaping the future of Gillette.

“Each construction project creates capacity for more students, attracts more students, grows selected

programs, or helps students successfully complete their degrees,” said Dr. Mark Englert, CEO and VP of Gillette College. “These strategies are driving efforts to contribute to the regional economy by attracting, training and retaining an educated workforce for the future of Campbell County.”

The next project underway will be the new Education and Activity Center, followed closely by additional student housing.

“We are grateful for the support we receive from so many people,” Dr. Englert said. “The next phase of enhancing this college is underway and it is imperative that we have a plan that is really a roadmap to help ensure we are serving students and the citizens of Campbell County. With the continued support of our community, we can make these plans and future facilities come to life.”

Gillette College plans for the futureNumber of students nearly doubled over last decade

TEC

West Sinclair

WHS

GCM

Gillette College thankful for continued support

FUTURE HIGHLIGHT

11

Education & Activity Center52,450 sq. ft.

$19.8 million budget

Home of the GC Pronghorn Athletic Programs

Incorporates Health & Human Performance Academic Space

Includes a Health Sciences Simulation Lab

Supports Student Engagement & Education Beyond the Classroom

Will open fall 2016

Gillette College plans for the futureNumber of students nearly doubled over last decade

Gillette College Education & Activity Center (Renderings courtesy: Plan One Architects and Architectural Nexus)

CURRENT BUILDINGS:TEC - Technical Education CenterWHS - Westwood High SchoolGCM - Gillette College Main BuildingTV - Tanner VillageHSB - Herb A. & Dorothy P. Carter Health Sciences Education Center

POSSIBLE ACADEMIC EXPANSION

STUDENT HOUSING EXPANSION

West Sinclair

Campbell County

Recreation Center

Pavilion

Gillette CollegeMaster Plan Rendering

(February 2015)

TV N

HSB

GILLETTE COLLEGE FOUNDATION

12 GILLETTE COLLEGE

Excitement abounded inside the Technical Education Center last fall.

At the Gillette College Scholarship and Annual Awards Dinner in November, scholarships were

presented to nearly 150 students, thanks to 50 donor-sponsored awards.

The scholarships help Gillette College students focus on their education and keep their goals in front of them, all while becoming an integral part of the Gillette College community.

“To be rewarded for hard work and determi-nation to do what I want to do, it’s really nice,” said sophomore Cody Jolovich, a student-ath-lete who plans to continue pursuing excellence in academics and athletics after Gillette College. “Scholarships make a huge difference.”

Jolovich, from Dayton, is as involved as any student at Gillette College. He’s president of the Student Senate, a student ambassador, an outstanding runner for the nationally ranked cross country and track teams, and a resident assistant.

A member of the cross country and track teams, Kyle Dietsche, a sophomore from Sheridan, received a Gillette College Business Scholarship.

“It helps a lot,” Dietsche said. “All the money helps. It helps pay for college. It helps us further our

education without taking on so much debt.”

Gillette College rodeo athletes Faith Carson and Taylor Engesser said scholarships have helped them pursue their goals. Engesser, from Spearfish,

South Dakota, is the reigning national champion barrel racer from the Collegiate National Finals Rodeo. She is studying Nursing.

Gillette College students, left to right, Faith Carson, Taylor Engesser, Sage Fluharty, Cody Jolovich, Asher Catterall, Cory Salitrik and Ali Piaia receive scholarship awards at the annual scholarship awards banquet.

Your donations make a difference for students attending Gillette College

“Gillette College remains in a growth cycle and will rely on future contributions to offset program costs and provide grants and scholarships.”

GILLETTE COLLEGE FOUNDATION

13

Carson is from Gillette and studying Elementary Education. She played a significant role in the Gillette College rodeo team’s run to the Central Rocky Mountain Region championship in 2014.

Freshman Asher Catterall, a student-athlete from Rock Springs, received a High Academic Achievement Scholarship.

“It’s nice to know that I’ve been able to get to this spot,” said Catterall, who is studying Secondary Education. “I want to continue at this level and hopefully people will look up to that one day. I want to be a role model.”

Public and private donations are the driving force behind myriad scholarships. Local gifts to the Gillette College Foundation also support program enhancements. The generosity of donors has made a positive impact on several academic areas, including Education, Nursing and Career Tech programs.

“We wouldn’t have been able to assemble our Tech Center with state-of-the-art equipment without the generosity of our donors,” said Jed Jensen, Dean of Career and Technical Education. “Generous endowments and donations have supported our students and also funded faculty positions.”

Donor gifts have also provided equipment upgrades to the dynamic Nursing program, which directly serves the local and regional health care industry.

“Gillette College remains in a growth cycle and will rely on future contributions to offset program costs and provide grants and scholarships,” said Dr. Mark Englert, CEO and VP of Gillette College. “Fortunately, the Gillette College Foundation recognizes this need and is mobilizing for the future to increase the capacity to provide support for our students. It’s a big task and only possible with public and private support.”

Gillette College Foundation

Dear Friends,

The Gillette College Foundation is the catalyst for enhancing Gillette College students’ experiences. Our mission is to enrich the offerings and operations of Gillette College. We provide funding for specific projects that support the Gillette campus, including student aid, equipment and facilities.

The GCF has the distinct pleasure and goal to assist Gillette College in expanding its physical infrastructure, enhancing academic programs and equipment, and meeting students’ needs. The Foundation provides thousands of dollars each year in scholarships, helping students pursue higher education at low costs.

The Foundation is guided by a group of dedicated, volunteer Board members who are driven to support students. The philanthropic nature of Campbell County community members make the Foundation possible. We have a variety of opportunities for donors to make a difference, ranging from the building of the Rodeo/Agriculture Complex to funding scholarships.

If you are interested in donating to the Gillette College Foundation, contact me at (307) 686-0254, ext. 1304. Thank you to all who have contributed to the success of our students in Campbell County!

Your support and interest are appreciated.

Sincerely,

Heidi GrossExecutive Director,Gillette College Foundation

GILLETTE COLLEGE FOUNDATION300 West SinclairGillette, Wyoming 82718(307) 686-0254, ext. 1304

www.gillettecollegefoundation.org

Find us on Facebook

The Gillette College Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Renee Robidart, center, receives her scholarship award from Gillette College Foundation President Nick Kasperik, left, and Gillette College CEO Dr. Mark Englert.

Heidi Gross

College to offer new trainings, community education coursesCarole Shafer is the director of the Center for Workforce and Community Education, joining Gillette College in November 2014.

Q: What is Workforce Education? Why is it important?

A: Workforce Education is a variety of courses focused on improving or providing skills for current or future workers. Classes can be upgrading your current skills or adding skills for your current job, or helping you train for a new job. Course offerings range from presentation skills, computer classes, and customer service to OSHA, MSHA, CDL, Forklift, Crane, Safety, etc.

Our jobs, industries, culture and technology are constantly changing. In order to be the best employee, we need to have options to maintain and improve skills, as well as learn new needed skills. Additionally, if we want to better ourselves and seek new career options, we need to have options to obtain those skills.

Workforce Education can be provided in a general format where anyone can register, or in customized training when a company requests a specific training for employees. Trainings can be conducted at the Gillette College campus or on the site of the employer.

Q: Is there a need for Workforce Education in Campbell County?

A: Yes! There are hundreds of jobs currently open in Campbell County; Workforce Education provides opportunities to obtain skills needed to fill those jobs. Additionally, as people are seeking new job opportunities or advancement in current jobs, Workforce Education provides training for those opportunities.

Campbell County is also growing with new businesses, industries and technologies coming into the community. Workforce Education provides training to meet these growing and changing needs.

PRONGHORN COMMUNITY

14 GILLETTE COLLEGE

Carole Shafer, Director, Center for Workforce and Community Education at Gillette College.

PRONGHORN COMMUNITY

15

Q: What is the mission of the Center for Workforce and Community Education?

A: The mission of the Center for Workforce and Community Education is to provide opportunities for individuals to have access to lifelong learning… Never stop learning! It may be job skills, a new computer technology or something like cooking or a hobby or craft. Workforce and Community Education are designed to give opportunities for personal enrichment and education. Also, for someone who isn’t seeking a degree, this gives people an opportunity to connect and engage with Gillette College.

Q: What types of training will be offered through Workforce Education?

A: Workforce Education includes the Industry Safety Training Center (ISTC), which focuses on MSHA, OSHA, First-Aid & CPR and other safety trainings. In addition to what ISTC is already offering, Workforce Education will be offering CDL training, forklift certification, overhead crane training, computer and technology training, customer service, presentation skills and QuickBooks, just to name a few.

Q: Who can sign up for trainings?

A: Workforce and Community Education classes are open to anyone who is interested in taking a course! Some classes (like CDL) will have prerequisites, but are still open to all who are interested and have a desire to learn and grow.

Q: What is the impact of training on the community, economy and local industry?

A: Education and economic development work in harmony to strengthen the community. Safety training helps decrease accidents and increase morale, which increases productivity. Professional development helps increase productivity and repeat customers, which helps create a positive impact on the community and economy by keeping money in the county. Business development offers new opportunities in the county for economic growth and new business, as well as strengthening the skills of current

business. Customized training offers the opportunity to provide training locally at a reasonable cost and eliminate travel costs for companies right here in Campbell County. Also, a trained and ready workforce helps attract businesses who are seeking new locations.

Q: What can the public look forward to learning through Community Education?

A: Community Education offers a wide variety of classes and opportunities for lifelong learning. Currently in the works, we have a series with the Campbell County Library to offer a book discussion, cultural event, craft class and cooking class all centered around a theme. Other exciting class options include cooking classes, upcycling clothes, how to use your smart phone and other tech gadgets, Internet security, lawn care, history of the area, photography, survival skills, financial basics, conversational Spanish, how to write a graphic novel, jewelry making, how to lobby, how to run for a political office, basic computer skills and other things along those lines.

We are very open to other class suggestions and we are always seeking people who are interested in sharing their skills and talents with the community.

How to contact the Center

Carole Shafer, Director of the Center for Workforce and Community Education, can be reached at (307) 686-0254, ext. 1312, or via email at cshafer@sheridan.edu. For more information, you can also visit us at www.sheridan.edu/workforce-community-education.

Carole Shafer stands in the Westwood High School culinary arts kitchen. Gillette College has partnered with the school to host several community cooking classes.

STUDENT HIGHLIGHT

16 GILLETTE COLLEGE

Tessa Robinson has a full slate of courses this spring, including Management and Organization, and Microeconomics.

An ultra-involved student and former Campbell County business owner, Robinson enrolled at Gillette College to pursue an Associate degree in Business. She will graduate in May.

“I came to Gillette College because I needed to go back to school and further my education,” said Robinson, originally from Montana. “Having a husband and two kids, being able to attend college right here is really convenient.”

Robinson, who met her husband Josh on a logging barge in Alaska before finding work in the Energy Capital, is using Gillette College’s dynamic Business program to prepare for an advanced degree. She will transfer to Black Hills State this fall.

Robinson is rounding her spring coursework with Ethics in Practice and English II. She helps fellow students in the college’s on-campus Tutoring Center, works part-time with the Business faculty, and takes part in Gillette College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa.

“I think the community support of Gillette College is great,” Robinson said. “I think it’s good that we

are growing, both on campus and in the community. I think that is really important.”

The Gillette College Business faculty has helped guide the program into a relevant, applicable course of study. Whether a student is looking to own and operate her own business, or pursue a higher degree, majoring in Business at Gillette College can provide the right platform for students to succeed, Associate Dean Scott Engel said.

“Students will get an opportunity to experience the depth and breadth of a great

Tessa Robinson, right, takes notes during class at Gillette College.

Tessa Robinson studies Business at Gillette College.

Business students thrive at Gillette College

Business program with courses ranging from management to marketing, finance to macro- and microeconomics,” Engel said. “They will learn how professionals behave, what business leaders think about, how to channel ambition in a positive direction and develop leadership skills.

“Ultimately we would like to see students continue on and obtain a Master’s of Business Administration. Getting the prerequisites completed at Gillette College and the four-year school of their choice will prepare them for that goal.”

Studying business in a region defined, in part, by its dominant energy sector and continuous economic development, provides an exclusive prospect for students, Engel said.

“The best part about the business program at Gillette College is the opportunity to learn in the Energy Capital of America,” Engel said. “We have Fortune 500 companies right in town, which is unique for a community of our size. We also have explosive retail growth and expansion of existing industries so students have a chance to learn to manage growth in terms of sales, marketing, entrepreneurship and even international business.”

Robinson said she has enjoyed learning about the international aspect of business during her

time at Gillette College. Engel echoed the tunes of diversified coursework.

“We have an organization in town with 250 worldwide clients and we have small businesses of one or two employees. Gillette is really a business hub where there is lots of investment from venture capital to Dow stock,” Engel said. “What an opportunity for students; to get in and get connected is what it is all about.”

STUDENT HIGHLIGHT

17

Students attend a Business class at Gillette College.

Tessa Robinson spends time studying on campus.

GILLETTE COLLEGE AWARDS

18 GILLETTE COLLEGE

Gillette College Recognizes ExcellenceEach year Gillette College recognizes several outstanding students, staff and faculty. Through the Wyoming Association of Community College Trustees and the American Technical Education Association, we celebrate the accomplishments of members of our college community for the 2014-15 academic year. These individuals have demonstrated excellence in their chosen area, contributed to their community college, served in their community and led innovative change and improvement.

WACCT Professional Employee of the Year Nominee: Jenni WinterJenni Winter is the Director of Finance and Operations at Gillette College. She oversees the business operations, which include preparing and managing all department and campus budgets. Additionally, Jenni has made a positive impact on the college’s culture. She was involved in creating the Campus Spirit Award, a traveling trophy for departments who demonstrate the most campus spirit and enthusiasm for Gillette College at various events.

WACCT Foundation Volunteer of the Year Nominee: Kelly BarlowKelly Barlow is the secretary of the Gillette College Foundation Board of Directors. Her commitment to our community and Gillette College is truly inspiring. She puts her commitment to Gillette College first and always schedules her time to accommodate board meetings, committee meetings and events. Kelly’s hard work, dedication and enthusiasm are evident in her community service and service to the Gillette College Foundation.

ATEA Student of the Year Nominee: Bailey LongBailey Long, of Enning, South Dakota, is Gillette College’s nominee for Student of the Year, from the American Technical Education Association. Bailey will graduate with an Associate degree in Diesel Technology in May 2015. He earned a degree in Welding in 2014. Bailey spent the previous two summers excelling in large-scale mining repair jobs for L&H Industrial of Gillette.

Jenni Winter

Kelly Barlow

Bailey Long

Donkey Creek Festival at Gillette CollegeJune 26 - 28, 2015

GILLETTE COLLEGE FACTS

19

Gillette College Facts

In-State Tuition & fees for 2014-15 school year: $2,892 (30 credit hours)

Economic ImpactFY15 Operating Budget ..................... $10,209,870 (does not include capital construction) Full-time Employees............................................88Part-time Employees ...........................................66

General College InformationMain Campus size: 91.09 acres

Facility space: 203,000 sf (as of 2/1/2015)

Student Characteristics Fall 2014

Average Age .............................................................. 30 Average age of part-time students 31 years

Average age of full-time students 23 years

Average Student Load (credit hours) Part-time ........................................................... 3.0

Full-time ......................................................... 14.4

Gender ................................64% Male, 36% Female

From Wyoming ....................................................87%

From Campbell County..................................... 76%

Annualized 2003-04 2008-09 2013-14Head Count 1281 2671 2571Full-Time Equivalent 699 881 1079

0

1000

2000

3000

2003-042008-09

2013-14

Full-Time EquivalentHead Count

GILLETTE COLLEGE ENROLLMENTAnnualized 2003-04 2008-09 2013-14Full-Time Equivalent 699 881 1,079Headcount 1,281 2,671 2,571

The Gillette College Foundation continues to work on behalf of the college through capital campaigns and scholarship funding. Gillette College Foundation board members are: Kelly Barlow, Toni Bell, Gregg Blikre, Dan Clouston, R. Douglas Dumbrill, Alisa Engler, L.D. Gilbertz, Wendy Hauck, Kerry Hayden, David Horning, Lee Isenberger, Rhonda Johnson, Nick Kasperik, Shilo Lundvall, Debbie McLeland, Brenda Schladweiler and Peg Smith.

Gillette College awarded 249 certificates and degrees in the 2013 - 2014 academic year and has awarded more than

1,700 degrees since 1992.

Follow all your P RO N G H O R N AT H L E T I C S a tw w w . g c p r o n g h o r n s . c o m

300 West SinclairGillette, WY 82718