The WCTE Open House, Job Fair, Redwood Materials partnership announcement and Financial Aid Workshop on March 6 attracted many visitors to the Carson City campus.

Western used the multi-event occassion to spotlight the college's workforce programs, faculty, facilities, technology and more.

“It was a great opportunity to learn about the many programs that WNC offers to help Nevadans prepare for and engage in fulfilling careers,” said WNC Interim Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Dana Ryan. “Attendees met instructors and employers, engaged in activities that showcase the skills needed in different industries, and learned about current and future workforce opportunities.”

For a three-hour period in the evening, WNC’s skilled workforce programs were open for the community to tour and experience. Instructors and employers led guests through hands-on activities and demonstrations that showcase some of the college’s cutting-edge technology. This includes a virtual dissection table in Nursing, a truck-driving simulator for teaching commercial driving skills, robotic arms used for advanced manufacturing and virtual reality field trips in many career areas. There also was interactive demonstrations in 3-D printing, engine repair, computer information technology and much more.

WNC also used the important day to announce a new training partnership with Redwood Materials in Joe Dini Library. Redwood Materials is located in Carson City and aims to create a no-waste recycling system for lithium-ion batteries, as well as produce battery materials for electromobility and electrical storage systems. WNC, with support from a Governor’s Office of Economic Development Workforce Innovation grant, has worked with Redwood Materials to develop a targeted training program for safe and effective battery recycling practices utilizing the Mobile Manufacturing Lab. The first training class, called Battery Basics, has just concluded.

“We are excited to partner with Redwood Materials to support this emerging industry. With the help of GOED, we look forward to leading the training effort in this field, supporting environmentally conscious practices and preparing individuals for future employment,” Dr. Ryan said.

Nevada State Senator and Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro and her son, Case, attended the Open House. 

Nevada Lt. Gov. Stavros Anthony also attended and visited with college partner Redwood Materials' team, WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe, Carson City Mayor Lori Bagwell and NSHE Regent Carol Del Carlo.

For WNC students, the Workforce, Career and Technical Education division hosted a career fair in the Reynolds Center where students met with employers to network and learn about full and part-time work, summer opportunities, internships and apprenticeships.

Additionally, the Financial Aid Department hosted a workshop for students and parents to assist them with the many ways to successfully navigate paying for college.

For more information about WNC's programs, degrees and certifications, phone 775-445-3000 or go to wnc.edu.