CWI announces energy industry partnership

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The College of Western Idaho (CWI) has announced a partnership with Idaho Power and Power Engineers, aimed at preparing students for careers in the energy sector. The collaboration will begin on Sept. 26 at 2 p.m. during an event at Swan Falls Museum, located 30 minutes south of Kuna. The event will provide students and industry professionals with hands-on field experiences, career guidance, and networking opportunities.

Through this partnership, CWI students will gain access to the latest technology and resources, ensuring that their education equips them for successful careers in this vital sector.

To facilitate career readiness, the event will include a session on resume building and interview preparation. Experts from Idaho Power and Power Engineers will share insights to help students excel in the competitive job market. Additionally, the two agencies have jointly donated $6,000 for virtual reality headsets and drones, enabling students to gain practical experience with emerging technology.

As the energy industry evolves with technologies like drones, students will apply real-world applications to their studies, deepening their understanding of how technology is transforming the sector, including its role in infrastructure monitoring, inspections, and safety enhancement.

As part of the event, students will tour Swan Falls Dam, the oldest hydroelectric generating site on the Snake River, operated by Idaho Power since 1901. This tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at utility industry operations.

“This collaboration between Idaho Power, Power Engineers and CWI serves as an important example of our commitment to engaging with key industries,” said CWI President Gordon Jones. “Through our partnership, we are helping to educate and train students by providing them with the tools they need to thrive in the energy industry.”