Colorado Mountain College: Training for In-Demand Jobs on the Western Slope

Colorado Mountain College is on a mission to ensure that its graduates can afford to live and thrive in our mountain communities. For over a decade, the college has followed a simple principle: new academic programs should result in jobs that pay a livable wage in mountain towns. This approach, called "labor market awareness," has guided the college's decisions to expand programs in high-demand fields like healthcare, public safety, and the skilled trades.

In practical terms, this means that students at CMC can pursue careers in fields like dental hygiene, human services, and radiology, with guaranteed pathways into graduate schools. The college has also doubled its nursing student capacity, revamped paramedic training, and expanded law enforcement training programs. These efforts are paying off, with many graduates already receiving job offers or stepping into careers with great benefits and starting salaries nearing six figures.

What this means for you is that if you're a student looking for a career that will allow you to stay in the Western Slope, CMC is a great option. The college's focus on labor market awareness ensures that its programs are tailored to the needs of local employers, increasing the chances of graduates finding good jobs in their field. For example, the new facility in Leadville will expand training in ski area operations and lift maintenance, while the regional skilled trades center in Rifle will offer new pathways in HVAC, plumbing, and sheet metal.

The college's efforts have been boosted by voter-approved resources, including the passage of Question 7C last November. This measure will allow CMC to build and expand programs that result in strong labor market outcomes, such as those in healthcare and the skilled trades. The results are already visible, with new facilities and programs being developed across the college district.

What This Means for Western Slope Residents

So why should you care about CMC's approach to education? For one, it means that the college is committed to ensuring that its graduates can afford to live and work in our mountain communities. This is especially important in areas like the Roaring Fork Valley, where the cost of living is high and good jobs can be hard to come by. By providing training in high-demand fields, CMC is helping to address the workforce needs of local employers and supporting the local economy.

In terms of dollars and cents, the voter-approved resources will allow CMC to invest in programs that will benefit local residents and businesses. For example, the new skilled trades center in Rifle will provide training in fields like HVAC and plumbing, which are in high demand across the Western Slope. This will not only provide good jobs for graduates but also support local businesses and homeowners who need these services.

Overall, CMC's focus on labor market awareness is good news for Western Slope residents. By providing education and training that leads to good jobs, the college is helping to build a stronger, more sustainable local economy. Whether you're a student looking for a career, a business owner looking for skilled workers, or just a resident who wants to see our communities thrive, CMC's approach is something to be excited about.