51ÁÔÆæ’s (51ÁÔÆæ) work to support adult learners and strengthen Idaho’s workforce received national attention this month. 51ÁÔÆæ Executive Director of Strategic Projects, Jillana Finnegan; Adult Education teacher, Jimmy Hallyburton; and Micron Technology’s Director of Workforce Strategies, Melanie Lewis, were invited to present at the 2025 National Training Institute (NTI), hosted by the .
Building Pathways Through Partnership
Their session focused on the development of 51ÁÔÆæ Adult Education's new Pre-Mechatronics course and how the collaboration between 51ÁÔÆæ and Micron is creating a clear pathway into high-demand technical careers. NTI brings together adult education leaders from across the country, and being asked to present is a recognition of programs demonstrating strong results. Idaho’s model stood out because it connects adult learners directly to real career pathways shaped with direct input from employers.
Participants noted the same themes that guide Idaho’s work: strong employer relationships, clear communication about workforce needs, and meeting students where they are. Many also highlighted the value of designing training alongside industry partners, so students gain skills they can put to use immediately.
Preparing Students for Mechatronics Careers
Pre-Mechatronics grew out of that exact approach. The program is an entry-level, college-readiness course designed to help students step confidently into 51ÁÔÆæ’s Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program by building the academic, language, and technical foundation they need. It was created using funding from the Workforce Development Council’s $4.2 million grant to 51ÁÔÆæ, which aims to double the size of the mechatronics program to meet growing workforce demands in advanced manufacturing. To make sure these opportunities are accessible, Adult Education developed Pre-Mechatronics for adult learners and English language learners who may have strong hands-on experience but need additional support in math, English, or industry-specific vocabulary before entering the mechatronics program.
The class is free, interactive, and hands-on. Students learn mechatronics and manufacturing terminology, build core technical and math skills, and complete an OSHA credential while also receiving help navigating college systems. Field trips to Micron and to the mechatronics program at the (NMEC) give them a real look at what work in manufacturing or mechatronics feels like day-to-day. For many, the experience also strengthens their applications for Micron’s apprenticeship program, a paid training opportunity that supports students while they work through the mechatronics program.
Anyone interested in manufacturing, engineering, automation, or mechatronics can apply. As part of enrollment, placement assessments help determine each student’s current skills and pinpoint areas that may need strengthening. If a learner needs additional preparation before starting, Adult Education provides guidance and support so they can enter the class ready and continue moving toward the mechatronics program with confidence.
For more information about Pre-Mechatronics course, please contact Jimmy Hallyburton at jimmyhallyburton@cwi.edu.
