This week, Leadership Colorado participants gained valuable insights into Lincoln College of Technology’s impressive 46-year history, the rigorous process behind maintaining their accreditation, and the vast opportunities available to non-traditional students pursuing highly in-demand trades, and discussing the state of Colorado’s future workforce needs. Lincoln Tech highlighted specialized tracks in partnerships with leading brands like Peterbilt, Tesla, and Hunter, the robust support Lincoln Tech offers to each student, and the institution’s strong commitment to post-graduation employment, as evidenced by their impressive data.
Our discussions also touched on the challenges faced by their senior leaders (including Leadership Colorado alum ’19 and now Campus President, Jennifer Hash!), particularly in areas such as staff development, training, and emotional management to ensure a positive environment for both teams and students. Additionally, the cohort had the opportunity to engage with House Representative Jennifer Bacon, who emphasized the critical role of state government in workforce development and education, underscoring the importance of creating pathways for student success within our state.
During the visit, we explored Lincoln Tech’s expansive campus, experienced hands-on activities like car painting (both virtual and real), performing car alignments, and even trying their hand at welding. This experience gave participants a deeper appreciation for the technical expertise, dedication, and extensive knowledge in math, science, and craftsmanship required to excel in these skilled professions. There is only one more program in this years’ class, and applications for the 2025 program will be available in the coming weeks.
Participants said about this program:
“Yes, we need doctors, lawyers, and such. However, we need blue collar workers because those skills are the backbone to our society and economy. The exercises we did today proved and reminded us that those skills are hard to learn.”
“A couple things I’m taking from this program that I’m going to apply my leadership to try to gain an understanding of what someone is going through at work and at home. Every career path is different, so if someone is thinking about a career change, we should try to understand why and talk to them about it to see if it’s a change they have been thinking about or if it is a rash decision. As a leader, we need to be able to listen and understand where someone is coming from.”
“Opportunities are out there and the demand for trades is increasing each year. I can help change the narrative around the stigma that trade schools tend to carry.”
