Building Skills and Creating Second Chances

STEM, Startups, and Strengthening Communities

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and cohost Les Wielgos highlight the many ways Chemeketa Community College inspires innovation and strengthens communities. In the first half of the show, Life Sciences Instructor Jennifer Schramm discusses the upcoming STEM Showcase and STEM Fair, sharing how these events engage students and families in hands-on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics experiences that spark curiosity and encourage future careers in STEM fields. In the second half of the program, Matt Geiger, Director of Chemeketa's Center for Business & Industry and Small Business Development Center, explains the resources, training, and support available to entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the region, helping local businesses launch, grow, and thrive. Together, these conversations showcase Chemeketa's commitment to fostering discovery, opportunity, and economic vitality across the communities it serves.

Real Skills, Real Support, Real Success

This week on Chatting with Chemeketa, we sit down with Nol Cobb from Chemeketa’s Apprenticeship and Trades program to talk about how students can step directly into high-demand careers while earning a paycheck and college credit at the same time. It's a practical, hands-on approach that helps students build a future without taking on debt. Then, we turn to the support systems that help students stay on track once they arrive. Yesica Navarro from the Student Success Center shares how orientation, guidance, and connection make all the difference in helping students reach their goals. From first steps to long-term success, this episode highlights how Chemeketa supports students every step of the way.

Growing What Matters: Horticulture and the Art of Communication

This week on Chatting with Chemeketa, we’re talking about growth in every sense of the word. In the first half, we head into the greenhouse with Havi Cagle to explore Chemeketa’s Horticulture program. From plant sales and harvest boxes to internships, orchard work, and real-world job placement, you’ll discover how students turn soil, seeds, and science into thriving careers. Then we shift gears to the power of communication with Josie Wood from the Communications program. Think it’s just public speaking? Think again. From teamwork and critical thinking to intercultural skills and persuasive messaging, learn why communication is one of the most in-demand skills employers are looking for, and why nearly every student takes at least one class. Whether you’re interested in growing plants, growing confidence, or growing your career, this episode has something for you.

How Scholarships and Pharmacy Tech Programs Change Lives

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, listeners learn how Chemeketa supports student success through both financial access and career-focused education. In the first half of the show, President Jessica Howard and host Les Wielgos are joined by Marie Hulett, Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement, for a conversation about Chemeketa scholarships and the impact they have on students’ lives. Marie shares details about upcoming scholarship applications, how financial support helps students persist and succeed, and the meaningful ways donors can make a difference—whether by establishing new scholarships or contributing to existing ones. In the second half, the focus shifts to health care careers as Corey Clark, instructor in Chemeketa’s Pharmacy Technician program, discusses the vital role pharmacy technicians play in patient care and how Chemeketa prepares students for this fast-paced, in-demand field through hands-on training and real-world preparation. Together, the episode highlights how generosity, opportunity, and practical education come together to open doors for students and strengthen the community Chemeketa serves.

Behind the Scenes at Chemeketa: Workforce Pathways and Community Events

How does Chemeketa connect people to opportunity and bring the community together? In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, Jessica Howard and Les Wielgos explore the work happening behind the scenes to support students, employers, and the broader community. In the first half of the show, they’re joined by Nick Recktenwald, Dean of Academic Development and Workforce Programs and Partnerships, for a conversation about workforce partnerships, academic development, and how Chemeketa supports learners at every stage, from building foundational skills to preparing for careers and long-term success. In the second half, Elizabeth Facanha, Manager of Event and Food Services, shares how Chemeketa creates welcoming, well-run events and opens campus spaces to the community, from open houses and performances to conferences, celebrations, and more. This episode highlights how thoughtful planning, strong partnerships, and dedicated people help Chemeketa prepare individuals for what’s next while creating spaces where the community can come together.