OLYMPIA, Wash. — Nine Washington community and technical college programs that train students for high-demand careers were recently awarded $1 million by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. The High Demand Enrollment fund awards focus on sustaining enrollments in training programs that lead to employment in high demand fields.
The colleges’ training programs to receive awards over a one-year period are:
- Centralia College: $133,084 for the Healthcare programs
- Highline College: $150,000 for the Allied Health and Behavioral Health programs
- North Seattle College: $80,360 for the Pharmacy Technician program
- Pierce College: $37,604 for the Military Service to Education program
- Shoreline Community College: $102,140 for the Medical Lab Technology program
- South Seattle College: $76,958 for the Automotive Technology Electric Vehicle program
- Spokane Falls Community College: $151,762 for the Artificial Intelligence (AI) program
- Tacoma Community College: $150,000 for the Respiratory Care program
- Whatcom Community College: $118,092 for the Computer Information Systems/Cybersecurity and Visual Communications programs
“We’re grateful for the Legislature’s investments. These programs help students prepare for in-demand and living-wage careers with industries that are looking to hire,” said William Belden, who coordinates the application and award process for the State Board. “It all contributes to stronger families and communities.”
The Legislature provided funding in the current state budget, which took effect in July. The support continues a commitment by the State Board to expand access to career and technical education programs in high wage, high demand occupations and areas supporting economic growth.
Awardees have until June 30, 2026 to use the funds.
