Nearly $1 Million Boost from DIDF to Enhance Workforce Training at Fort Lewis College

The Durango Industrial Development Foundation (DIDF), established in the 1970s, has donated over $700,000 to Fort Lewis College (FLC) to establish the Durango Industrial Development Endowment. This endowment will support workforce development, entrepreneurship education, mentoring, and career readiness training. Additionally, DIDF has given $250,000 to assist FLC in developing its workforce development program over the next three years.

FLC will use these funds to create programs that prepare students and adult learners with skills needed for employment. These programs cater to both degree-seeking students and those pursuing specific job credentials. Melissa Mount, vice president of advancement and CEO of the Fort Lewis College Foundation, stated the importance of tailoring these programs to meet regional economic needs and industry feedback.

The workforce development team at FLC is analyzing local and regional data to pinpoint critical areas for training. The college plans to offer new certificates in sectors like healthcare and renewable energy to boost economic mobility. Alana Romans, FLC’s chief strategy officer, noted that a program manager has been hired and the first two training programs, focusing on leadership skills, will start this summer.

The initiative, 'FLC at Work,' is enhanced by the DIDF funds and additional FLC resources. These funds will help develop micro-credentials that are flexible and responsive to market needs, aiming to reach nontraditional learners throughout the region.

FLC recently launched a medical assistant certification program that quickly filled its 20 available spots, with many participants from the local area. This program now has a waiting list, showing strong community interest. Mario Martinez, provost and vice president for academic affairs at FLC, mentioned that DIDF’s funding provides a strong foundation for these workforce programs.

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