Exploring Chernobyl
Message from the President
One of my top priorities is to build on and celebrate Idaho State University’s strengths, traditions, and community-based culture. The College of Technology is definitely one of our University’s long-standing strengths. It has a long-standing tradition of preparing students to enter the workforce to better their communities with the skills and knowledge acquired at Idaho State.
The ISU College of Technology is a leading example of how industry and higher education can work together. For more than a century, we have worked with industry partners to ensure we are setting our students up for success, using the latest technology to give them the skills they need to be relevant leaders in the workforce.
We bring industry professionals into our classrooms and laboratories to help guide curriculum, engage with our students, and often offer them jobs on the spot. Our industry partners return to Idaho State every year to hire our graduates because they leave our programs trained and ready to lead in their professions.
Our University is committed to excellent teaching, innovative thinking, and the personal and intellectual growth of our students. I am proud that we are a resource for meeting the needs and demands of an ever-changing workforce. Thank you for being a part of this legacy, and a part of our future.
Kevin D. Satterlee President Idaho State University
ISU President Kevin Satterlee speaks at the Eames Complex dedication
Debbie Ronneburg Interim Dean
Darin Jernigan
Interim Associate Dean
Michaell Plowmn Director of Development
Chris Guthrie Director of STEM and Industry Relations
Courtney Rhodes Mason Director of Marketing and Recruitment
A special thanks to: Corinne McCullough, Aubreanna Crabtree, Jean Swassing, & Shalee Butler
On the Cover Nuclear Operations students receiving hands-on training learning from the Chernobyl dosimetrist demonstrating how to read a hot spot on the ground.
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In This Issue
College of Technology Dean, Scott Rasmussen Retires from Idaho State University
The College of Technology Brings New Interim Leadership
STEM UP 2021: A Community Collaboration
College of Technology Receives $1 million in Equipment from Grant Funds
Virtual Reality Police Training
2 Plus 2 Program Opportunities at College of Technology 2021
Please send comments, feedback, and story ideas to ctech@isu.edu.
College of Technology Department Chair, Dave Treasure, Creates Scholarship to Honor Son
Gold Star Families Memorial Monument Dedication Assisted by Continuing Education & Workforce Training
Nuclear Operations Recieves Scholarship to Attend Training at Chernobyl
Nursing Renovations Underway at Roy F. Christensen Building
Industry Partners Provide Continous Support to the College of Technology
10 Year Journey: Dr. Joel Cruz’s Story
Message from the Dean
I am honored and thrilled to serve as the Interim Dean for the College of Technology! I feel privileged to be a part of a college with a long history of preparing our graduates for the workforce.
My vision is to bring my 25+ years of experience in higher education and my leadership style to our college to continue a reputation for quality in career and technical education. My goal is to enhance the profile of our college through modernization of equipment and expansion of the education offered to our students to produce career-ready, highly skilled, well-rounded technicians and professionals for high-demand occupations.
Our college will strive to be well known at regional, state, and national levels as a premier provider of rigorous education that emphasizes curriculum that meets the needs of our industry partners. I am dedicated to working with you to continue to make significant contributions to economic and workforce development in the region.
As an alumnus of Idaho State University, I couldn’t be prouder of the College of Technology and the things we do to change the lives of our students.
My husband and four children have all finished programs at the college including Diesel Technology, Law Enforcement, Computer Aided Design Drafting Technology, Cosmetology, and Early Childhood Care and Education. I love the college and what it has done to make a difference in the quality of life for my family, and I know it has done the same for many others.
As a new year gets underway, I am thrilled to feel the excitement of faculty and students in our classrooms and labs. It always inspires me to see the dedication of our great faculty and their enthusiasm to teach new skills to our students. I am indebted to the wonderful alumni, industry partners, and friends of the college who assist us through contributions of time, money, effort, and constructive feedback to continue our tradition of excellence.
Debbie Ronneburg Interim Dean College of Technology
Interim Dean Debbie Ronneburg
College of Technology Dean, Scott Rasmussen, Retires from Idaho State University
By Courtney Rhodes Mason
Longtime dean of the College of Technology, Scott Rasmussen, retired in early January leaving behind a lasting legacy. A Bengal graduate himself, Rasmussen returned to Idaho State in 1992, leaving a career at Union Pacific Railroad to teach radio frequency principles. He soon found that he loved working with students and enjoyed seeing them learn, grow, graduate, get great jobs, and become successful in their career field.
He was named chair of the Department of Electronics in 2000. In 2007, he led efforts to bring together industry partners and educators to create the Energy Systems Technology and Education Center (ESTEC). In partnership with the Idaho National Laboratory, ESTEC established programs in careers in highdemand energy fields all over the country.
Since its beginning over 1,000 ESTEC graduates have found success through these programs. Due to Rasmussen’s passion and vision, Idaho State University’s College of Technology was the first CTE college in the state to offer an Associates of Applied Science in Cyber-
Physical Security, now known as Industrial Cybersecurity.
In 2011, Rasmussen was named dean of the College of Technology. During his tenure as dean, he has helped to raise funds to provide tools, equipment, scholarships and state-of-theart facilities for students. His vision has inspired donors such as the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation and Bill Eames to contribute millions of dollars to renovate the William M. and Karin A. Eames Advanced Technical Education and Innovation Complex.
In partnership with the Albertson’s Family Foundation, they were able to create the Successful Transitions and Retention Track (START) program. This program provides social and academic support as students manage barriers while they pursue sustainable career and life goals.
He became involved with various committees that expanded CTE opportunities for students, teachers, and industry partners.
R Scott Rasmussen Day
Idaho State Governor, Brad Little has declared August 12, 2021 as R Scott Rasmussen Day. The Idaho Division of Career and Technical Education (IDCTE) office arranged for the governor to make the proclamation to showcase the incredible impact that Rasmussen has had on CTE during his tenure at the Idaho State University’s College of Technology.
The event was held in surprise for Rasmussen at the William M. and Karin A. Eames Advanced Technical Education and Innovation Complex. Surrounded by family, former colleagues, and friends; IDCTE Administrator, Clay Long read the proclamation and IDCTE Director of Program Services, Adrian San Miguel presented the IDCTE Distinguished Service Award. Interim College of Technology Dean, Debbie Ronneburg, and Kelly Steely, Dean of the School of Business Communication & Information Technology at the College Western Idaho shared some remarks.
Through his time as instructor, director, and dean; Rasmussen has always been a strong believer in career technical education (CTE). It is through Rasmussen’s dedication to student success and career and technical education that students will be able to enjoy the support they need for years to come.
(Left to Right) Kelly Steely, Scott Rasmussen, Adrian San Miguel, & Clay Long
The College of Technology Brings New Interim Leadership
By Courtney Rhodes Mason
After 10 years as dean of the College of Technology, Scott Rasmussen, retired from his role in early January, leaving Idaho State University to name Debra Ronnenburg as interim dean. In total, Ronneburg has worked at Idaho State for more than 25 years, with a majority of her career in student services. Ronneburg was named associate dean of the College of Technology in 2013, serving as Interim Associate Dean for one year prior to that. Before working in the dean’s office, she served as the director of Student Services in the College of Technology for 12 years and worked in Enrollment Planning for 4 years.
Not only has she worked at Idaho State for many years, but is an alum of ISU as well. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, a Master of Public Administration degree, and is working to complete her Doctor of Educational Leadership in Higher Education Administration this year.
Her experiences over the years as a student and professional staff member have given her a unique advantage for her new role as interim dean. Her entire career has been held in student focused positions and she plans to continue her student focus as she takes on the leadership role of the college.
Interim Dean of the College of Technology, Debra Ronneburg.
“No matter my position, I have always wanted to assist and help students. That can take one form or another, but at the end of the day I want to help students be as successful as they can be,” said Ronneburg. “In my role as associate dean I was able to be the eyes and ears of the college and had the unique opportunity to know the tiny details, difficulties, and successes for each of our programs.
As director of student services, I was able to engage with students one on one, and as interim dean I have the advantage of those experiences to find ways to help our students along their career pathways,” Ronneburg said. One of Ronneburg’s student focus goals that she has been working on since day one is developing more collaboration, partnerships, and connections throughout the college, university, community, and with industry partners.
“Debbie believes in collaboration in the fullest extent of the word,” said Director of STEM and Industry Relations, Chris Guthrie. “She is a complete team player in all aspects of her role and she wants that to continue through every facet of the college. She encourages collaboration between programs, from college to college, and with individuals. It’s really amazing to see her not only encourage others to collaborate but to actually put forth the effort herself as she works on behalf of the College of Technology,” said Guthrie.
Students are at the very heart of the work Ronneburg puts forth in her role. She not only has goals for collaboration, but to showcase the incredible education and hands on experiences that students receive at the College of Technology. As COVID restrictions lessen, she aims to encourage student participation in national competitions as well as host competitions in many of college’s state of the art facilities.
“No matter my position, I have always wanted to assist and help students.”
- Debra Ronneburg, Interim Dean, College of Technology
“I want to carry forward the goal Scott had of elevating the College of Technology,” said Ronneburg. “I can’t think of a better way to do that then to let students speak for themselves and showcase the incredible work they put into their education. Many of our programs have students doing projects that majority of university students don’t receive until graduate school. Participating in competitions and allowing our students to shine is an opportunity to show how incredible we really are,” Ronneburg said.
As a very analytical and data driven person, Ronneburg has a knack for balancing her goals with tangible outcomes. The College of Technology’s positive placement rate and review of program health provide logical guide posts that Ronneburg uses to assist her in her efforts.
Her driven personality gives her the ability to provide guidance for the college as well as a standard for success she can measure against. Her role as associate dean prepared her to easily step in as interim dean and carry forward the momentum Rasmussen left behind while also allowing her to infuse her own touch within the College of Technology.
“Debbie’s extraordinary service as associate dean for the last eight years has prepared her well to step into this role as interim dean,” Rasmussen said. “Her many skills, abilities, and pleasant personality make her an outstanding choice to continue to move the college forward until a new dean is
officially selected.”
Ronneburg will serve as the interim dean until a permanent candidate has been hired, a months-long process that will include a national search. Until that search begins, the College of Technology could not be in more capable or wellprepared hands. Ronneburg’s years of experience, understanding, and involvement in the college have made the transition as smooth as possible. Her positive and encouraging personality will no doubt continue to be an asset to the college no matter the position she holds.
“Debbie’s extraordinary service as associate dean for the last eight years has prepared her well to step into this role as interim dean.Her many skills, abilities, and pleasant personality make her an outstanding choice to continue to move the college forward until a new dean is officially selected.”
-Scott
Rasmussen, former Dean College of Technology
STEM UP 2021: A Community Collaboration
By Corinne McCullough
Social distancing and event restrictions caused by the COVID pandemic sparked creative solutions for community outreach and collaboration. STEM-UP! was an example of how when faced with obstacles, we can come together and develop amazing outcomes.
In the spring of 2019, the first Elementary STEM night was held in conjunction with the College of Technology’s annual Tech Expo at the Idaho State University Holt Arena. The event brought in families with K-6 students from all over Bannock County with the goal of creating awareness of STEM opportunities that exist in College and in the workforce.
The Elementary STEM night was such a success that it was decided that the event would be held again in 2020. COVID brought those plans to a hault and
brain storming started with in the STEM committee that had been formed by Chris Guthrie, ISU College of Technology’s Director of STEM and Industry Relations.
Chris brought the idea of a drive through event to Lori Craney and Carri Thomason of the Pocatello School District. They took the idea and it grew to what became STEM-UP! 2021.
STEM-UP! introduced kindergarten through fifth-grade learners and their families to science, technology, engineering and math education and STEM-related careers. STEM-UP! participants received a hands-on STEM kit that allowed them to explore the concept of energy over spring break.
STEM-UP! began with a drive through pick-up event at local elementary schools. During the pick-up,
Staff at Edahow Elementary School prepare to hand out STEM kits. Elementary students shown exploring snap circut kits that were provided by the College of Technology
participants in grades K-5 received a comprehensive STEM kit with a hands-on activity to complete at home with family involvement.
Each STEM kit was age-appropriate and introduced participants to STEM education and STEM-related careers. Lessons focused on the sun’s energy, magnetic energy, and energy transfer.The kits were physically assembled by School District 25 employees. Each kit had coupons from local restaurants, pens/pencils from Lookout Credit Union, and the activity that correlated to their grade.
The activities not only aligned with their learning objectives but were also very engaging and fun. This event allowed participants access to ISU College of Technology faculty for instruction, through short videos. There are also videos with information from industry professionals that talked about how what was being taught could effect careers.
Participants explored handson STEM activities, engaged in learning, and energized their excitement about STEM education while becoming familiar with pathways to STEM-related careers.
“The STEMUp Event was
awesome!” said Lori Craney, “Around 3250 StemUp kits were picked up on the night of the event by families. That is a huge turnout. That’s nearly 2/3 of all of our families who came to the school to pick up the learning kits. The learners who were not able to come that evening received the kit at school.”
Craney went on to say, “The ripple effect of this event was far-reaching. Families were involved with their learners and with the community through the partnership with Idaho State University College of Technology.
The kits contained activities that were not just a “one and done”. Learners could explore as they tried new ways to solve problems with
the materials in the kits. By visiting the ISU website, they were guided through the activities and then heard about real-life applications for the science they were learning.”
“STEM UP was an amazing collaboration between ISU’s College of Technology and School District 25, including Grace Lutheran School.
It allowed post secondary education and industry to connect with K-5 students, and parents, in a way that is meaningful to the students, hopefully planting the seeds for a future STEM workforce. It was truly a collaborative effort that serves to strengthen STEM education in our community,” stated Chris Guthrie.
“It was truly a collaborative effort that serves to strengthen STEM education in our community.”
- Chris Guthrie, ISU College of Technology’s Director of STEM and Industry Relations
Teachers hand out STEM kits during drive-thru at Syringa Elementary.
Student shown who won the drawing for a drone donated by the College of Technology.
College of Technology Receives $1 Million in Equipment from Grant Funds
By Courtney Rhodes Mason
Governor Brad Little completed signing his “Building Idaho’s Future” bill in early May, making strategic investments in education and Idaho’s workforce. Of the four bills signed by the governor, senate bill 1154 provided $2.5 million in funds to help expand and modernize post-secondary career technical education (CTE) school programs to align with regional labor market needs.
“We have a constitutional and moral obligation to prepare our students to become lifelong learners and eventual participants in our state’s workforce,” Governor Little said. “The goal of my ‘Building Idaho’s Future’ plan is to use Idaho’s record budget surplus to provide Idahoans historic tax relief and make strategic investments in education, transportation, broadband, water, and other critical areas to propel our state forward.”
With the approval of grant funds, the College of Technology was able to purchase numerous technical equipment for various programs to help provide students with the updated and modernized tools they need not only to be successful in their future careers, but to set them apart and above
peers in their field. These funds will provide students with cutting-edge, industry leading resources and tools and furthering advancement of their skills in actual hands-on classroom settings.
The Computerized Machining program will receive a new 5-axis milling machine to provide increased opportunities for students to gain experience in an area quickly growing in the industry. The Aircraft Maintenance Technology program will receive funds to update and repair various aircraft engines that students spend the majority of their time working on in the classroom. The On-Site Power and Diesel Technology program will be following a similar update to their equipment. Currently, the power transmissions class utilizes training aides and equipment from the 1970’s. With the few funds the program has acquired new tractors to be used in the power transmission class, as well as the hydraulics and electrical classes.
“This equipment will be a huge asset to our college, current students, and future students,” said Debra Ronneburg, Interim Dean of the College of Technology. “These tools provide more alignment
with the requirements employers are looking for in hiring employees for their companies. It provides students with the newest technologies and gives them an advantage in the workforce.”
The Nuclear Operations program will be adding to their already impressive array of teaching aids by investing in two pieces of equipment to help with growth in their program studies. The first instrument is a Boron Trifluoride Neutron Detector that will be used for the AGN-201 reactor on campus. This reactor is one of five that are still operating in the world and provides invaluable training for students. This lowpower reactor is a treasured resource for students and provides them with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience operating and working on a functional nuclear reactor. The second portion of the grant funds will be used to purchase access to NuScale small Modular Reactor simulator (SMR). SMR is a new emerging nuclear reactor design that many professionals are training to use.
“With the acquisition of the NuScale small modular reactor simulation, Nuclear Operations students will have the opportunity to operate a state-of-theart nuclear reactor,” said Vince Bowen, executive director of Energy Systems Technology & Education Center (ESTEC). “We are using a real reactor on campus, housed in the basement of the engineering building, providing students with the potential to be a licensed reactor operator. In addition, students learn
about operating a nuclear reactor with our generic pressurized water reactor. NuScale will provide another advantage for our students to use all three of these reactors and simulators to put our students in the best possible position to work in any nuclear power plant in the world.”
The NuScale simulator will help to round out the level of experience and insight industry is looking for in hiring nuclear operators. These tools will allow students to not only graduate with the knowledge and skills they need to enter into industry, but will provide unique opportunities to set them apart from others in their field.
“We have a constitutional and moral obligation to prepare our students to become lifelong learners and eventual participants in our state’s workforce.”
- Govenor Brad Little
“ISU will be the only school in North America to have this process that is used throughout the world in numerous applications.”
-Dave Treasure, Trade and Industrial Department Chair
The Health Occupations department will purchase two virtual anatomy laboratories, also known as Anatomage Classic Table with Medical Design Studio. These tables are the most technologically advanced 3D anatomy visualization system for anatomy education and will include a life size full body display, ultra-high-quality filters for CT and MRI scans, case files, anatomical radiology curriculum, and so much more.
“The Anatomage tables will be a great asset to our health occupation programs,” said Dr. Henry Oh, department chair and clinical professor for health occupations. “The tables provide an accurate 3D visual of individual human anatomy in a dissectible way. It will allow for students to explore and learn the human body beyond the use and limitations of actual cadavers.” The Anatomage tables provide educational advantages that medical fields are looking for in their employees.
“Imagine doing a lecture on the heart, using the anatomage table instructors can having the flexibility of quickly shift views of a diseased heart to a normal heart showcasing the differences in muscle to students more efficiently,” said Darin Jernigan, College of Technology’s interim associate dean. “The interactive anatomage tables will revolutionize the student learning experience in all health related courses,” Jernigan said.
Unlike traditional cadaver-based learning, students don’t have to worry about making mistakes when dissecting on the 3D table. Operative errors can be reversed and allow students to review what went wrong, helping to amplify, hone, and master their skills; whereas with traditional cadavers, once a
mistake has been made it cannot be undone, reviewed or started over.
Not only does the table allow for students to learn more efficiently, it also provides them with exposure to advanced technology, a feature that is continuously incorporated into the medical world.
The Automotive Technology program will modernize much of their equipment with the funds provided. The program aims to purchase new scan tools, labscopes, and diagnostic tools to meet electric car and component growth currently being seen in the industry. The purchase and modernization of these electric car tools will provide advantages for students looking to enter into an automotive career.
With the growth of the electric car, industry is struggling to find employees who already have the skills they need to work on these cars and with the advantages of having these tools within the program, students will graduate with electric car experience while many are currently having to learn on the job.
The final equipment piece will be purchased for the Welding program. The grant funds will be used to acquire a modern Gas Tungsten Arc Welding equipment known as K-TIG. With this equipment, the College of Technology will be able to successfully prepare graduates to directly enter the nuclear welding area of the industry.
K-TIG Welder
“ISU will be the only school in North America to have this process that is used throughout the world in numerous applications,” said Dave Treasure, chair for trade and industrial department.
“Over the last three years our welding program has purchased state-of-the-art gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) welding equipment to prepare the joining of nuclear grade materials in fabrication applications for modular and micro reactors. K-TIG, who is based in Australia, invented a process to effectively and efficiently weld stainless steel pipe up to 90% quicker than conventional (or manual) methods. The process requires no end prep of the pipe, has a minimal heat affected zone, affords minimal distortion, and uses no filler wire. One pass will weld up to ½” wall thickness on stainless steel pipe,” said Treasure
Governor Little’s “Building Idaho’s Future” bill has been a vital component in assisting the College of Technology to update, enhance, and modernize equipment. These grant funds ensure that the College of Technology is able to meet the ever-growing demand from industry and students. The ability to utilize new technology and equipment will provide necessary training to help prepare students, not only for higher level coursework, but also the knowledge needed as leading professionals in their field. The resources acquired through this grant will not only benefit students, but will also place the College of Technology as a leader in teaching integrated technology for the advancement of the local, state, and national community.
NuScale Power’s small modular reactor design facility in Oregon.
Virtual Reality Police Training
By Aubi Crabtree
“One of the biggest advantages to the VR is that I can stop it and discuss why the officer did something, whether it be right or wrong.”
-Lynn Case, Law Enforcement Coordinator
As the demand for police officers continues to climb, the need for innovative training is a necessity. Recently, the idaho state university’s law enforcement program invested in virtual reality software that allows for police cadets to take their training to the next level. The idaho state law enforcement program serves as a post (idaho peace officer standards and training) academy that focuses on training future police officers. The program traditionally involves setting up physical scenarios and actors who simulate various situations that police officers face on the job.
These situations could be pulling over drunk drivers, participating in a drug raid, working with the police dogs to find evidence, or learning about gun safety, self-defense and protection. While the Law Enforcement program still incorporates hands-on scenarios into their curriculum, the program has also started implementing virtual reality (VR) training to allow for a more well-rounded educational experience.
“Thanks to discounts and help from this year’s Perkins Grant, the Law Enforcement program was able to purchase a new VR system that supports up to four officers,” explains Lynn Case, Instructor and Program Coordinator for Law Enforcement.
“The VR allows for our cadets to be immersed in different scenarios they would be exposed to while on the job. Once the headset is on, the real world
disappears and the cadets are totally immersed in the scenario. It’s real enough that their heart rate goes up, respirations go up and the adrenaline dump starts. Making it this real makes the officer react like they really would, creating a solid learning environment.”
While the VR equipment is still very new to the Law Enforcement program, students have already been impressed with the virtual experience. The program has used a set-up where an armed emotionally disturbed person is involved and the officer has to talk the person into getting handcuffed. The VR equipment allows for more flexibility when it comes to interacting with criminals and handling these types of stressful situations the correct way.
“In some of the scenarios I could actually talk for the suspect and take the conversation any direction we wanted,” describes Case, “One of the biggest advantages to the VR is that I can stop it and discuss why the officer did something, whether it be right or wrong,”
Survivr, the virtual reality first responder training system, allows students to experience a wide range of high-pressure training environments, including the potential for customizable location scenarios.
This VR system offers the unique capability of creating custom scenarios using 3D scans of real locations, such as local schools, business, churches, or govern-
ment buildings. This provides students and trainees with the rare ability to train in areas where in-person experience is usually limited to real-life worst-case situations.
In addition to the high-level of experience cadets will now have with VR simulations, the Law Enforcement program is also excited about the opportunity to continue furthering relationships with local police agencies and other Idaho POST representatives.
“One of the reasons for getting the VR system is because it is portable and I can offer it to local agencies, creating more good will,” explains Case. “The Lemhi County Sheriff is already interested in using our system for their deputies. Pocatello Police Department and Bannock County Sheriff’s Office have also expressed interest.”
With the versatility, cost-effectiveness, and real-world training the new VR equipment allows, the Idaho State Law Enforcement program is excited to provide more enhanced training for cadets and to better prepare them with skills to enter the police force. The skills and knowledge gained by running in-person and virtual scenarios will prove to be tremendously helpful to these new recruits as they choose to defend and protect their communities and prevent crime.
College of Technology Department Chair, Dave Treasure, Creates Scholarship to Honor Son
By Courtney Rhodes Mason
William “Ben” Treasure started his college career in 2014 as a very active and engaged student. He was an Idaho State University Ambassador, worked in the Idaho State motor pool and even taught gymnastics. On June 13, 2015 his world forever changed after a dirt bike accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. With two crushed vertebrae and several bone fractures in his extremities and face, Ben was life flighted to Idaho Falls where an attempt was made to repair his injuries. The swelling from an 18” incision, two rods, and 16 screws in his lower back killed nerves and left him paralyzed from the waist down. He was transported to the University of Utah from Idaho Falls for in-patient spinal cord rehab, which would prepare him for life as a paraplegic.
However, despite the struggle, severe pain, and uncertain future Ben never stopped working at bettering himself. He spent months working on his rehabilitation to be able to sit in his wheelchair and rotate around the waist. While gaining more independence through his rehab, he turned his focus onto his future career.
“My dad was always showing me programs at the College of Technology, and I always thought it was a cool place,” Ben said. “I knew I needed a career where I didn’t have to lift anything, so my dad encouraged me to check out the robotics program.”
Instructors Shane Slack and Geran Call gave him a tour of the program and the rest, as they say, is history. Ben completed his degree in Robotics and Communications Engineering Systems Technology in the Fall of 2018 and even had a job lined up upon graduation. Ben accepted a position at Inovar in Logan, Utah, specializing in electronic manufacturing services for military and medical equipment. At first, Ben worked as a service technician, but was quickly
Photos on opposite page: Left to right, Dave and Ben Treasure
Ben is shown working at Inovar in Logan, Utah, specializing in electronic manufacturing services for military and medical equipment
Below: Ben in physical therapy.
promoted in November 2020 for his incredible work and skillset.
“It was really easy to find a job because these employers have such good experiences with previous Idaho State students that they are always looking for new graduates to hire,” Ben said. “Inovar expected a lot from us, but the education I received at the College of Technology and the equipment we get to work with in class set me up for success. I didn’t have a steep learning curve when I started the job as I’ve seen so many others experience.”
While Ben was able to accomplish a massive feat in his recovery, rehabilitation, education, and career, he definitely had the support from family and friends to help him achieve his goals. His hard work, dedication, and perseverance are just some of the reasons his father, College of Technology Department Chair, Dave Treasure, decided to create a scholarship in his honor.
“I created this endowment to help students, like my son, to be able to achieve their educational and career goals,” said Dave. “Ben’s experience reminded me of the Seabees in World War II and their ‘Can Do’ attitude that helped them achieve some of the most daunting tasks. I want to be able to give others a little inspiration to those who have the right attitude but may need some assistance to reach their goals.”
Dave’s endowment has a goal to reach $25,000 and help assist students for at least the next five years, by offering financial support to students who need additional assistance for college. To learn how to donate to the endowment, please contact Jessica Cooper Adminstrative Assistant for the Industry Welcome Center at 208-282-2849 or by email at jessicacooper@isu.edu
Gold Star Families Memorial Monument Dedication Assisted by Continuing Education & Workforce Training
By Courtney Rhodes Mason and Gary Salazar
On a slightly overcast Memorial Day weekend families and community members gathered to dedicate the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument. Located just off of exit 73, north of the Portneuf Wellness Center in Pocatello, Idaho the monument which was years in the making, is a permanent tribute to servicemen and women who gave their lives in defense of the nation, and most specifically, to the sacrifice of the families and loved ones they left behind.
Gold Star Memorial Monuments are built to “honor and remember the fallen and their families, who bear the loss of a loved one in military service to our nation and preservation of our freedom”. They can be found throughout the country, but this is the first and only one in Idaho. The idea for these monuments came
from Hershel “Woody” Williams, the last surviving WWII Marine to wear the Medal of Honor for his efforts in the battle of Iwo Jima. His foundation is dedicated to helping remember those who have fallen as well as their families.
That event was the culmination of an idea voiced by a local Gold Star mother, Rebecca Webb. Gold Star Families are those who have lost loved ones in military service to our nation, and Rebecca’s family lost their son, MSgt Chris Webb, while he was serving with the Idaho National Guard. It was her dedication and willingness to keep moving forward and reach out that made the memorial possible. “I had to make a choice of whether I remained in that pain and remain in that suffering, or whether I made the choice to try and
reach out and help others,” said Webb.
The event wouldn’t have been possible without the assistance from Idaho State University and the College of Technology’s Continuing Education and Workforce Training (CEWT) department. The Pocatello Sunrise Lions club, led by Scott Stephens, CEWT’s Business Consultant, provided all the flowers which were laid at the memorial by the Gold Star families, and those Lion club members also helped greet, escort and direct families and guests as needed.
CEWT’s Paul Dickey and Aaron Hillier provided the live streaming and coordination with Farm Bureau to view the ceremony at the Portneuf Wellness Center’s amphitheater. An ATV brought in for use in an emergency was provided by Jason Batalden, CEWT’s Assistant Director. The event signage was developed by his team and delivered by CEWT’s Shirley Hocket and her son Mike, an Army vet. CEWT’s finance manager, Michael Jones, who is also a Navy vet, took over the supervision of the event at the
“This community, I believe, right now, has a new beginning, a beginning where we can better recognize and remember the fallen and their families.”
-Hershel “Woody” Williams
Wellness Center’s auditorium, also helping organize the bus transportation between there and the memorial.
It is the hope of all those involved in this project that people will come from all over for reflection and remembrance. To understand that Memorial Day is truly more than a day off from work, but a reminder of the price of freedom and the sacrifice of others.
There are seven informational plaques at the memorial that were developed over a year prior by Sammy Rich, one of CEWT CPI’s. She produced the research and drafts that are now permanently displayed, explaining the Gold Star history and purpose of this memorial. The informational plaques explain the importance of this to be a place for healing and education, to increase awareness of brave service men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation, and to the loss borne by the loved ones they left behind.
Brigadier General Farin D. Schwartz, spoke to the audience and urged the public to “Take an extra moment to think and pray for
the family members who have lost loved ones and have had to live with that loss every day.”
Nighty-Seven-year-old Hershel “Woody” Williams ended the ceremony with a reminder that the day was not about him, but about the families that have given more than we could ever imagine. Williams continued by calling the community to action, stating “This community, I believe, right now, has a new beginning, a beginning where we can better recognize and remember the fallen and their families.”
The revered feeling of the event only increased as the unveiling took place. All of the family members of the fallen were asked to come up to the monument and were able to lay their red flowers down at the base. The names of the fallen were read, and Williams words to say their names, learn their names, celebrate their spirit, and make certain to carry their message and legacy forward came to the forefront of the service. The ceremony closed with a rifle salute and taps; a fitting conclusion to a day dedicated to remembrance.
“The learning opportunities for these students to see first-hand how a production over safety mind set led to a major accident is invaluable.”
- Mackenzie Gorham, Coordinator and instructor for the Nuclear Operations Technology program
Students receiving handson training learning from
the Chernobyl dosimetrist demonstrating how to read a hot spot on the ground.
Nuclear Operations Technology Program Receives Scholarship To Attend Operations Training At Chernobyl in Ukraine
By Aubi Crabtree
Five students from the ISU College of Technology Nuclear Operations Technology program have been given the opportunity to travel to Ukraine and visit the Chernobyl nuclear powerplant disaster site to receive additional nuclear operations training. Students were able to travel in October 2020 thanks to a scholarship they received by Idaho State University.
During their visit, students had the unique opportunity to learn in depth about the nuclear accident that took place at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant No. 4 reactor in April 1986. Their training also included an overview of the new safe confinement installation and the environmental concerns present at the plant. The accident is still considered one of the worst nuclear disasters in history
and provides insight and necessary training to help prevent such disasters from occurring again.
Mackenzie Gorham, coordinator and instructor for the Nuclear Operations Technology program, organized the trip. As Gorham explains, “The learning opportunities for these students to see firsthand how a production over safety mind set led to a major accident is invaluable. Being allowed to see this plant in person can provide a strong foundation to when we cover safety, reactor design, radiation safety, safety systems, environmental monitoring, and power plant siting issues in class. Now they will have a context in their minds for why these issues are so important in the nuclear industry,” said Gorham.
Students were able to apply these skills during through operations training and actually track down a piece of the reactor graphite from Chernobyl that spread into the abandoned town of Pripyat. Topics such as nuclear safety, taking measurements, environmental monitoring, contamination detection, and sweeps were covered during their training.
First semester Nuclear Operation Technology student, Brooke Johnson, explains, “I think the opportunity to understand the accident from the Ukrainian trainers’ points of view will be valuable as I look at how US plants are designed differently and in a safer way.”
The Nuclear Operations Technology program can be completed in only two years where students earn an Associate of Applied Science in Nuclear Operations and begin a rewarding career working in the nuclear industry. As a nuclear technician in training, students learn to operate and maintain equipment used for the release, control, or utilization of nuclear energy in power generation, research, medical applications, production, and more. The hands-on instruction provided through ISU’s College of Technology includes nuclear operations students increasing their real-world skills by working with a generic pressurized water release control room simulator, radiation work zone mock-ups, and training in the ISU AGN-201 nuclear reactor laboratory on campus.
Thanks to a scholarship by Idaho State University, the chance for College of Technology students to receive high-quality skills-based training in the Nuclear Operations Technology program extended beyond the on-campus classrooms and laboratories. Nuclear Operations Technology students not only gain additional training and knowledge in their nuclear fields, but also experienced a once in a lifetime opportunity to work in an uncontrolled contamination
Pictured (left to right): Jennifer Regguinti, Brooke Johnson, Mackenzie Gorham, Zachary Malkisch, Marcus Fisk, Kristie Collier
field resulting from a nuclear reactor explosion. In addition, they also were given the chance to learn from lead experts and experienced nuclear professionals from Chernobyl. This experience will prove to be memorable as these students graduate from the Nuclear Operations Technology program and transition into meaningful, high-demand careers in the nuclear industry.
Marcus Fisk, a third semester student in the program, also was excited to see how the current plant operations at Chernobyl work today. “The plant has maintained radiation readings and the condition of the rubble from the accident for decades,” explains Fisk, “but no one really talks about how they operate today and how it has improved since the accident. This look at an operating foreign nuclear plant will be valuable as I consider overseas work.”
Gorham says, “I would like to thank Tom Clawson of TRG, Inc for allowing students to participate in this program, which is normally filled by working professionals or government attendees. The trainers and support staff at Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant were extremely helpful and went out of their way to help us understand the plant, accident, and contamination conditions present.”
Students explore nuclear operation control room
Student tests rubble for radiation
Students outside one of the nuclear facilities
Nursing Renovations Underway at the Roy F. Christensen Building
By Courtney Rhodes Mason
Construction has begun on the Roy F. Christensen (RFC) building as it begins expanding, renovating, and upgrading many of the classroom spaces for the nursing program housed in the College of Technology. The construction will include a remodel of the north south lecture hall, creating a new skills lab, expanding office spaces, and building a new human simulation lab.
“We are extremely excited to have construction begin at the RFC. These spaces have needed a major upgrade for the past several years and through this project we will be able to bring students into a modernized, state of the art facility,” said Interim Dean of the College of Technology, Debra Ronneburg.
The construction has been broken down into four phases, with the north south lecture hall and the skills lab in the first phase of construction and scheduled to be completed in the fall semester. The skills lab will create a larger space for students to practice drawing blood, patient care procedures, respiratory and life support, and many other critical skills.
It will also contain a nurses’ stations and an open classroom space. The space will be renovated to create a centralized nursing faculty and staff office space as well as necessary equipment storage.
“The human simulation lab is an incredible interdisciplinary learning center for students,” said Health Occupations Department Chair, Dr. Henry Oh. “In a normal hospital setting nurses are working alongside respiratory therapists, coordinating with physical or occupational therapists, and working with pharmacists on medications. The simulation lab mimics this environment and allows students to learn their roles during an emergency, provides opportunity for team work and leadership development,” said Dr. Oh.
The new high-fidelity simulation lab will house stateof-the-art equipment such as manikins that have expanding chests that breathe, have variable heart rates and tones, measurable blood pressure, and palpable pulses. Various procedures can be performed on the manikins such as bag-mask ventilation, intubation, defibrillation, chest tube placement, cricothyrotomy, and others.
The lab will have 15-foot ceilings, allowing plenty of natural light to enter the space, a massive glass garage style door to act as an ambulance entrance, and patient rooms complete with programable manikins and hospital bed headboards. The space is organized in a way that allows students to be given a simulation and then recorded from the control stations.
Once the simulation is completed students will have the opportunity to move to one of the debrief rooms, watch the simulation back and discuss with their team and faculty on how it was successful and what skills need to be improved.
The simulation lab will be completed as part of phase four in the construction plan with hopes to have it operational in the 2022 spring semester. Due to Covid-19 the project has suffered many set backs with construction delays, material shortages, and cost increases.
The completed project will cost an estimated $3.2 million. The project creates an extraordinary opportunity for students in health occupation programs to engage across campus and with the local community hospitals as well.
Photo above: Renovation in progress in the RFC lecture hall.
Photo below: Renovations seen from the outside of the RFC.
Construction on the nursing skills lab
Industry Partners Provide Continuous Support to the College of Technology
By Courtney Rhodes Mason
Because of the support and relationship with various industry partners, programs and students through the College of Technology have the capacity to be leaders in their field. It is through the generous care of individuals, corporate, and local businesses that allow access to innovative ideas, donate equipment, development of educational initiatives, and financial support that students are provided with the best possible educational foundations.
“It is through the support of our industry partners that we are able to successfully educate our students to enter the workforce,” said Interim Dean, Debra Ronneburg. “Their insight and knowledge are invaluable to the efforts the College of Technology strives for as we aim to create the most capable and skillful graduates.”
In a recent industry partnership, the College of Technology and Norco Inc. have developed an agreement where Norco will provide welders, gasses, and scholarships for the college over the next 10 years. This agreement will mean that the college will use Norco exclusively at a reduced cost and create a partnership that will impact students for years to come.
“It is through the support of our industry partners that we are able to successfully educate our students to enter the workforce.”
- Interim Dean, Debra Ronneburg
“Norco entered into an educational partnership with ISU College of Technology’s Welding program. Some of the benefits from this partnership include exclusive educational discounts on equipment for students, student scholarships, and discounts on consumables purchased by the program. This agreement also provides opportunities for training at Norco’s training center or NORTECH in Kaysville, UT, and a program to replace student operated welding machines every year as part of a cooperative agreement with Miller Electric Company,” said Chair of the Trade and Industrial Department, Dave Treasure.
These industry partnerships have a direct impact not only on the operational function of the program, but the opportunities for students. The partnerships invest in the students and their success as is evident in the increasing support for scholarships, educational discounts, and donations of equipment. A long-time industry partner, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL), recently came to the college wanting to offer scholarships to the Robotic program students and were eagerly looking for additional ways they could be involved.
“We received a scholarship from SEL, when they approached us, eager to be of help. We gave away two scholarships for this fall, where both students will receive $1,250 for each semester. This level of financial support is life changing for students who are working incredibly hard to create a successful career path for themselves,” said Robotics Program Coordinator, Shane Slack.
The program also purchased new lab equipment that will help expand the capabilities of the students to measure higher frequency RF signals, as well as faster digital communication signals. This will offer students the opportunity to develop communications circuitry using the latest protocols and integrated circuits.
“The water-jet will also expand the capabilities of the students in the rapid prototyping class, and during their capstone project. This will offer the students the chance to create small, high accuracy, metal and carbon-fiber parts that cannot be cut on our existing CNC machines or laser cutters,” said Slack.
Robotics Student working in the Techtronix lab
A leading provider of industrial automation equipment, Rockwell Automation has also been an incredible industry partner over the past year and gifted multiple programmable logic controllers and associated I/O modules to the College of Technology’s Energy Systems Technology and Education Center (ESTEC).
“Programmable logic controllers are the brains of modern industrial facilities” said Vince Bowen, Executive Director of ESTEC. “While students in all of our ESTEC programs are exposed to core industrial automation concepts, this donation will especially help our Electrical Engineering Technology (EET) students stay up to date with the latest technology.”
With the help of Ahmik Hindman and Tad Gropp, Rockwell Automation was able to see the worthwhile investment in the college. “We are excited by the breadth and depth we see at ESTEC” explained Hindman, an industrial cybersecurity specialist working
out of Rockwell’s Seattle office, “Industry needs wellprepared technicians to take US manufacturing into a bright future.”
Industry partners provide support for students in a variety of different ways. Joe Nalder with Addison Collision Center in Twin Falls, ID reached out to the Auto Collision Repair and Refinishing program to not only learn more about the program, but to build relationships with students. Alder provided a tour of his facility to College of Technology leadership and brought his senior technician Ely Tyree to campus.
They provided students with the unique chance to engage one on one with them, expose students to employment opportunities, and spoke about some of the skills they would like to see students focus on. While visiting they did a couple of impromptu interviews and ended up hiring a student, Gabe Simmons, on the spot.
The unique skills that College of Technology students develop are in part to the generous donations that industry partners provide. In an effort to provide more electric car training experience to students in the Automotive Technology program, college leadership reached out to Art Beery and Ryan Cole with Cole Chevrolet to look into purchasing a Chevy Bolt. Beery and Cole found every educational rebate and discount they could apply as well as donated $10,000 towards the purchase of the car. In turn, this will provide years of technical training on an electric car for many students to come.
“Industry partners are essential to the College of Technology and we are grateful to have over 400 industry partners on our technical advisory committees. They are generous of their time, talents, and resources,” said Chris Guthrie, Director of STEM
Ely Tyree shown speaking to Auto Collision Repair and Refinishing students.
and Industry Relations. “Their impact has such an amazing ripple effect on the College of Technology and our students,” said Guthrie.
Industry partners not only help to provide opportunities for current students, but also opportunities for students to share their education with the local community. A recent National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) donation is being used to have far reaching effects for educational opportunities. An electrical engineering technology alumnus, Logan Honeycut, who works for NOAA reached out to ESTEC to see if the department would be interested in some data loggers that they were refurbishing for updated equipment.
“NOAA is a scientific and regulatory agency that forecasts weather, monitors oceanic and atmospheric conditions, river levels, and helps to predict fire danger. To do this they use data loggers that capture this information and transmits it to stations throughout the U.S. These data loggers are a great asset to the ESTEC programs,” says Ryan Pitcher, associate director of ESTEC.
“Not only do these data loggers help us align better to industry standards, but allow our students to learn how to program them for field use. The exciting thing about this donation is that as our students program them, we can take them out to high schools, teach them about this technology, and provide a foundational pathway for students to further their education in one of our programs,” said Pitcher.
The NOAA donation and the expanding use of these tools into high school classrooms showcases the importance that industry relationships can have. Pitcher’s use of the data loggers provides a great example of how resources, equipment, and
financial support can impact current and future students. Pitcher plans on using these data loggers in partnership with a Pocatello high school teacher to help create a local weather station and data bank for the community. The project will incorporate the advanced skill development ESTEC students need for industry while also exposing high school students to technology and potential career paths.
The College of Technology has had the opportunity to engage with countless industry partners over the years and it is because of these efforts that student experience is strengthened. On behalf of the College of Technology, we cannot thank our partners enough for the support they have provided. With just a simple donation of equipment or the establishment of a scholarship, the impact is far more reaching then ever thought possible.
Presentation of donation from Cole Cheverolet Pocatello
A 10 Year Journey: Dr. Joel Cruz’s Story
By Aubi Crabtree
From GED to Doctorate degree, Joel Cruz has been on a 10 year journey to further his education and lead a successful life. Joel Cruz came to the United States from Mexico at the age of 17 with no more than a 9thgrade education. He worked at different farms west of Blackfoot, Idaho and eventually went on to form a construction company with five of his brothers. After working in construction for nearly 14 years, Cruz went to Idaho State University after testing and passing his General Education Diploma (GED) requirements.
Immediately after receiving his GED, Cruz interviewed to enter the Successful Transitions and Retention Track (START) program at the College of Technology. Cruz faced a few obstacles on his educational journey and sought out the assistance he needed with START. With English being his second language and the need to continue working to provide for his family, START was a perfect fit. The START program is a free one-semester program that provides social and academic support to help students like Cruz manage barriers while pursuing a sustainable career and life goals.
“It seemed very doable. I come from a background of always working and being useful,” said Cruz. Having a passion for sports, Cruz always dreamt of becoming educated in understanding the science and application of physical therapy for athletes. His daughter, who needed rehabilitate therapy exposed him to the physical therapy occupation, This played a huge driving force into his desire to study physical therapy. After researching different programs offered at Idaho State, he set his sights on the Physical Therapist Assistant program within the College of Technology.
Upon completion of the START program, Cruz entered and then graduated from the Physical Therapist Assistant program in May 2016. He then continued on to earned his Bachelors of Science in Health Science in May of 2017. Cruz pursued his goals even further and graduated with his Doctorate of Physical Therapy in April 2021 from Idaho State.
“If you stick with it, it will come,” said Cruz. “I’m telling you today 10 years down the road that the hard work and dedication has paid off. The time has come because I stuck to it and here I am, graduating with a doctoral degree.”
Although Cruz faced many challenges like learning to understand English or finding the need to reach out to a tutor, he knew what needed to be done. Now at the age of 47, Joel Cruz sees no reason to stop, and encourages others to pursue their goals. It’s all just a matter of putting in the time.
Dr. Jernigan, College of Technology’s Interim Associate Dean and Physical Therapist Assistant Program Coordinator, explains that, “Joel Cruz is the epitome of a College of Technology success story. He possesses all the traits you look for in a student such as grit, maturity, compassion, team work, and most of all an insatiable desire to learn. He has learned to love the process of learning and has incorporated that into his daily life.”
Cruz is a shining example of a hardworking, determined student that utilized Idaho State’s College of Technology resources to succeed. Joel Cruz, Dr. Jernigan, START instructor Don Allen, and START Director Cherisse Brown celebrated Cruz’s accomplishments in April with a doctoral hooding ceremony to honor the newly named Dr. Cruz.
2 Plus 2 Program Opportunities at the College of Technology
Earning an associate degree from the College of Technology can serve as a strong foundation for going on to acquire a bachelor’s degree.
The blended Early Childhood Education program is an example of how a student can combine an associate’s degree (AAS) with an additional two years and graduate with a bachelor’s degree or what some call a 2 plus 2 program.
Students who are interested in working with children birth through eight (early childhood) can earn an associate of applied science degree in two years at the College of Technology.
During the first year especially, students get real experience with children in a group setting. All 64 credits of the AAS degree transfer directly into the College of Education’s Early Childhood/Early Childhood Special Education teaching credential, serving as the early childhood core of the 4-year degree.
There are many advantages to choosing this route to teaching. Carol Grimes, co-director of the College of Technology Early Childhood Care and Education program, states that, “Students who complete the AAS degree move into the BA degree with strong skills and deep knowledge about young children and their families.“
Students who want to have the option of teaching kindergarten through third grade in a public school setting benefit from starting their degree with the ECCE program at the College of Technology because of the strong focus on child development, classroom design and curriculum development, family interactions and partnerships.
“The more education people have about how children develop and all the things we do, what impact it has on them, the better it is for children, which then becomes better for school, which becomes better for society,” said Grimes.
By Corinne McCullough
Civil Engineering Technology and the Surveying and Geomatics Engineering Technology programs are another 2 plus 2 option at the College of Technology.
Civil Engineering Technology gives students a solid understanding of materials testing and an intro to surveying. After earning their associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology students go on to complete the qualifications for earning a bachelor’s of science degree by adding the Surveying and Geomatics Engineering Technology program.
All of the Surveying and Geomatics classes are available online so this makes the program especially attractive for students that are already working in the field of surveying and gives them the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree leading them to eventually license as a professional land surveyor.
“Getting my Associates in Early Childhood Education created the opportunity for me to jump right into the education program which specialized in early education.”
-Elaine Goodwin, Early Childhood Care and Education Graduate
Other 2 plus 2 program opportunities:
• Bachelor of Applied Science
• Bachelor of Science Health Science with a Concentration in Health Occupations
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber-Physical Security
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Blended Early Childhood Education
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Darin Jernigan DPT Brings Experience to New Role as Interim Associate Dean for the College of Technology
Dr. Darin Jarnigan came to ISU as a student in the 1980’s as a track athlete. He graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise Science and Human Anatomy Minor in 1988. He eventually obtained his master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Pacific
in Stockton CA and practiced Physical Therapy all over the US specializing in orthopedics and geriatrics. He returned to ISU in 2002 as a faculty member in the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program and completed his Doctor of Physical Therapy at ISU.
Darin has been associated with the PTA program for over the past 20 years as a faculty member, PTA Program Director, and Director of Rehabilitation programs for the College of Technology. Being asked to serve in the associate dean role is an honor that he is proud to accept.
Clayn Lambert Announced as New Department Chair for Business & Support Services
Dr. Clayn Lambert began working at the College of Technology in August 2002 as an instructor in the Technical General Education Basic program, where he taught courses in English, Communications, and several related subjects. Clayn has expanded his teaching portfolio to include general education courses in ethics and social science and currently holds the rank of Clinical Associate Professor. Clayn served as the Faculty Coordinator for the Technical General Education (TGE) program since 2012, moving into the position of Coordinator of General Education and Assessment in 2017.
For the past year, Clayn served as the Interim Department Chair for Business and Support Services. In addition to his regular faculty duties, Clayn has served as a resource throughout the College of Technology in the areas of instructional technology, curricular design, and course and program assessment. He has also served on a number of college and university level committees, including chairing the ISU Undergraduate Curriculum Council (2007) and co-chairing the ISU Faculty Senate (2014-2016). In 2016, he received the Daring Greatly
Award from the Dean of the College of Technology, recognizing his contributions to the success of the College as a whole.
Clayn received his Bachelor’s Degree in English from BYU-Provo (1998) and a Master’s Degree in English Literature from the University of Idaho (2002). He completed his PhD in Instructional Design from Idaho State University in 2019.
His dissertation, Shaping Postsecondary Developmental/Mainstream Curriculum through Intuitive Instructional Design - A Case Study, focused on describing how postsecondary faculty at broad-access institutions of higher learning in the Intermountain West perceived the influences that informed their design and delivery of instruction as they transition between developmental and mainstream instructional settings.
Clayn was awarded the 2019 Peter C. Kole - William H. McGuffey Prize for Excellence in Educational Research for the quality of the research associated with this dissertation. Clayn is very excited to continue to work with his colleagues and is confident of the possibilities the future holds for the Department and the College as a whole.
Michael Plowman Named New Director of Development for the College of Technology
Michael J Plowman started as the Director of Development for the College of Technology on May 17, 2021. He brings nearly 20 years of experience in nonprofit management and fundraising. Most recently he was the Executive Director of Development for the Union station Foundation in Ogden. In addition to his responsibilities for general fundraising campaigns, he helped restructure the board from one that had major responsibilities for operations of museums and facilities, to a focus on fundraising, including creating the narrative and structure for a 4 year 40-milliondollar capital campaign.
Prior to his tenure as Executive Director at the Union Station, he spent thirteen years with the Boy Scouts
of America, where he organized and completed annual fundraising campaigns, special events, direct mail, and capital and endowment campaigns. He was instrumental in securing the first ever million- dollar gift for the Utah National Parks Council.
In addition to his years with the Boy Scouts of America he was Senior Director of Development for Clear Horizons Academy, a school for children with Autism in Orem, Utah, and Executive Director for the Bridle Up Hope Foundation.
Michael is a graduate of Utah State University with a degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Health Education. He has been married to his best friend Hollie for 33 years. They have three married children and 4 grandchildren.
In his free time Michael enjoys all outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, camping and traveling. He was born and raised in Logan, Utah, but spent much of his youth years at his grandparents farm in Franklin, Idaho.
Tom Putnam Announced as New Executive Director of College and Career Readiness
Tom Putnam began working at the College of Technology in June 2012, as the Advanced Opportunities Transition Coordinator for Region 5. He has worked in the changing landscape of Career Technical Education (CTE) Advanced Opportunities, as the state of Idaho moved from Tech Prep to Technical Competency Credit (TCC) and CTE Dual Credit as avenues for high school students to gain college credit and transition into CTE-based postsecondary programs.
In his previous work, Tom was a manager for nearly 10 years for a regional non-profit organization that focused on community-based initiatives and poverty reduction. During his tenure with the regional non-profit, he helped to oversee and manage a staff of over 10 people and helped in the creation of successful programs that impacted the regional community. Tom is also a licensed counselor (LPC) and has been involved in providing both individual
and group-based counseling services to underserved populations in our community. One of his passions and motivations in his career is to help those who are truly in need, to access the support and services that they deserve in order to build a better life.
As a devoted member of the Bengal community, Tom received his undergraduate degree in Psychology, a Masters in Public Administration, and a Masters in Counseling, all from Idaho State University. He believes that education and knowledge is the key to our growth and success as both individuals and communities. Tom is married with 5 teenagers, one of whom is a current student in the College of Technology in the Electrical Engineering Technology program, as part of ESTEC. When he’s not shelling out money to his teenagers or telling bad dad jokes, Tom enjoys snowboarding, riding his mountain bike, and exploring all the beautiful backcountry that Idaho has to offer.
Tom’s new responsibilities include overseeing College and Career Readiness (formerly Adult Education), Center for New Directions, START, and the Tutoring, Academic Support, and Peer Mentoring (TAP) Center.
Staff Excellence Award
Aubi Crabtree
When COVID-19 shut the world down, people scrambled to figure out how to adjust to the new restrictions. Crabtree took every change, restriction, and alteration to her work environment with such understanding and strength. She extended herself to faculty and offered them every assistance she could. She sought ways to engage with teachers and counselors and always brought forth ideas and pathways the Marketing and Recruitment Office could use to help successfully engage with prospective students. She is driven to work and is always on the lookout for potential new opportunities for student recruitment or community engagement. Crabtree is a great leader in her field and constantly pushes for innovative ways to recruit. She is passionate, hardworking, professional, and greatly respected by all those who interact with her.
Kendra Crismon
Kendra Crimson is an integral member of the Law Enforcement program at the College of Technology. For the year between program coordinators, Crimson helped keep the program running successfully and was an important part of onboarding and training the new coordinator. She is the first face people see when they come to the law enforcement building and is always pleasant and cheerful to anyone who walks through those doors. Crismon sets and maintains a high standard in all that she does, from clerical work to meeting with prospective students she is always professional. She is in contact with the POST coordinators in order to keep the Law Enforcement program aligned with the latest requirements and meticulously performs her tasks each and every day. She strives to create a smooth functioning program so that students can easily focus on their requirements and work toward their career goals.
Outstanding Faculty Award
Robin Terrell
Robin Terrell is a muchloved member of the Medical Assisting program at the College of Technology. Terrell has spent the last 11 years promoting and enhancing her program and works tirelessly to ensure that her students have the support they need to succeed and excel. She has conquered great personal hurdles to be able to provide the support and resources her students need. She has always shown genuine concern and care for the students she works with. She takes the time to ensure that students understand topics and themes for class and provides an exceptional example for those around her. Terrell’s involvement and passion for the Medical Assisting program will continue to shine brightly through her students as they enter the workforce prepared with the knowledge and compassion she has taught with for so many years.
Ryan Pitcher
Ryan Pitcher is an outstanding faculty member for the College of Technology. Pitcher has been voluntarily running a STEM summer camp called Ignite Your Future for several years and has raised the funding to sponsor this event each year. He not only provides this unique camp for students and teachers, he also takes on a full teaching workload in the ESTEC department. He strives to improve students’ critical thinking ability and provide them with the support they need to be successful. As an ESTEC Associate Director he is also responsible for curriculum, accreditation, and student petitions. Remarkably, Pitchers involvement does not stop there. He is also a capstone advisor for the College of Science and Engineering and is a beloved community member who works to expand STEM teaching.
Professional Achievement Award
Recognizing Excellence Outstanding Community Partner Award
Chad Mitchell
Chad Mitchell is an outstanding industry partner for the College of Technology. Currently he is the chair of the Welding Technical Advisory Committee and participates as a member in the Computer Aided Design and Drafting Technical Advisory Committee. His participation is appreciated by the college because of the input and guidance he provides on where the industry is going, what new technologies are available, and what the trends are. He has been a massive support to the college by attending recruitment events and encouraging students to attend Idaho State University. He volunteers his time and frequently offers students tours of his business at Industrial Metal Enterprises. Mitchell is a wonderful asset to the college and often volunteers his time, talent, and financial support. His business currently supports an annual scholarship for the welding program, which has allowed many students to follow their dreams into a welding career. Mitchell is also a second-generation award winner, with his father Thomas Mitchell winning the Professional Achievement Award as well.
Dean’s
Medallion
Dwayne Sudweeks
Dwayne Sudweeks has had a long and distinguished career with Engineered Systems Associates, Inc. since 1979. He is now President of Engineered Systems Associates, Inc. His role places him in charge of computer-aided drafting (CADD), technical assistance studies, and multiple engineering projects. Sudweeks is a licensed Mechanical Engineer and received his Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Idaho State University in 1983. Sudweeks has been an incredible support to the College of Technology and has donated numerous times to support programs and college initiatives. Sudweeks is also in charge of writing project reports and directing the Mechanical Design Team. He performs computer calculations, makes analyses of the mechanical systems, coordinates and assists with plans and drawings, and oversees construction of the projects. In addition to providing mechanical consulting services, Dwayne is a Certified Energy Auditor for the Department of Energy Institutional Conservation Program and a Certified TAS Analyst. Dwayne is also certified in HVAC System Balancing, computer operation, programming, CADD, load estimating, and equipment sizing.
Idaho National Lab (INL)
The Outstanding Community Partner Award is awarded to a candidate that reflects a positive involvement and relationship with the College of Technology and its programs. The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) has been involved with the Energy Systems Technology and Education Center (ESTEC) since the very creation of the center. Since 2008 when ESTEC began accepting students into its programs INL has been highly involved in the planning and implementation of ESTEC programs. Numerous INL representatives have been involved in all of the ESTEC’s Technical Advisory Committees. These representatives have been key in ensuring the curriculum taught in all ESTEC’s programs not only fit their hiring needs, but also the needs of other businesses throughout the region and the nation. INL has assisted in creating career pathways for ESTEC students. Additionally, when ESTEC programs seek a representative to present to students during classes, INL employees are quick to respond in the affirmative. They often volunteer their own time to do so if the ESTEC class schedule does not fit within their work assignments.
Outstanding Student Award Bryndi Rigby
Bryndi Rigby is a talented and artistic student who is one of the top graduates from the Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing program. Rigby represents excellence and creativity in a field where few women enter. In the program, Rigby found that painting vehicles was her passion and found her dream job as a restoration specialist, bringing classic cars back to life. She spent her last semester working to restore her own 1970 Firebird. She entered the program just after graduating high school and brought with her tenacity and work ethic that set her apart from her peers. Rigby is always willing to help other students and excels at learning new skills.
The time for career and technical education in Idaho is NOW. The place is HERE.
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Your gift can make all the difference in fulfilling a young person’s dreams of attending Idaho State University and earning an invaluable education. An astounding 75% of students who drop out do so because of financial pressure.
With more than 83% of students qualifying for need-based federally funded tuition aid, and more than 40% identifying as first-generation college students, the need for tuition support from alumni and friends is clear.
Scholarship Support
You can set up a “named current use “scholarship for $1,000-$5,000 per year that will provide annual spendable scholarship funding to be awarded in the next academic year. A five-year commitment of $1,901 or more may qualify you for one of Idaho State’s annual giving societies.
1901 Society- recognizes alumni, parents and friends who give $1,901 in funds annually.
President’s Circle- become a part of this elite group of philanthropists who contribute $5,000 or more annually to support the University and College of Technology
Other Ways to Give
Corporate matching funds- corporate matching gifts are a great way to double the impact of your donation. See if your company matches contributions.
In-kind contributions- you may have equipment or supplies that would benefit the education of our students.
Give Now at isu.edu/give
Individual Donor Gifts from June 1, 2020 to May 31, 2021
$250,000+
William M. and Karin A. Eames
$100,000+
Doris A. Brydon
$25,000 - $50,000
Douglas R. Pitman
$5,000 - $24,999
Estate of Bob Causton
William and Rosemary Kobus
Leland and Mary Mink
Barry and Peggy Orgill
Merlin and Donna Richardson
Kevin and Sharon Schrage
Nathan and Michelle Schroeder
$1,000 - $4,999
Bruce Clark
Christopher and Kellyanne Duncan
William and Dr. Karen Johnston
Bernard and Catherine Judge
Arthur Lee
Douglas and Kathryn Lenio
Dennis and Pamela Moodie
Kathleen Priddy
Donna L. Richardson
Shryock Family
Deborah Thompson
Lois Thompson
Dave and Angela Treasure
David D. Treasure
Lincoln and Linda J. Yamashita
$500 - $999
Judith C. Damewood
Patricia Gilmore
Janice J. Matteson-Howell
Dennis and Gloria McAteer
Ricky J. Murphy
Marty and Conni Owen
John Pitman and Rebecca Smith-
Pitman
James and Jeri Spinner
Business/Organization
Donors from June 1, 2020 to May 31, 2021
$14,999 - $25,000
Engineered Systems Associates, Inc.
$10,000 - $14,999
Bayer U.S.
Blackbaud Giving Fund
Gene Haas Foundation
Portneuf Medical Center
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
$5,000 - $9,999
Williams Companies
$2,500 - $4,999
Idaho Power Company
Kissler Family Foundation
The DeVlieg Foundation
$1,000 - $2,499
Campbell Scientific Inc
Cole Chevrolet
Fluor Foundation
Industrial Metals Enterprises
Lookout Credit Union
Paramount Machine
Tulsa Community Foundation
$100 - $500
Homestead Appraisal
Maximus Inc
Pocatello Flooring
Regional Economic Development
Eastern Idaho (REDI)
Servpro of Blackfoot/Pocatello
$40,000+
Idaho Society of Professional Land Surveyors
$10,000 - $15,000
Bayer U.S.
The Gene Haas Foundation
National Council of Examiners NCEES
Portneuf Medical Center
$5,000 - $9,999
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
Kissler Family Foundation
Tulsa Community Foundation
ACEC of Idaho
Engineered Systems Associates, Inc.
$100 - $499
Michael and Deborah Cahoon
Mike and Chris Guthrie
Arlyn J. Higley
Morgan and Tiffanie Poyser
Maurice and Debra Ronneburg
Will and Ana Rowe
James and Ann Benham
Donald and Jo Carson
Jack J. Conner
Carl and Linda Deschane
Marilyn T. Edwards
Steve and Patti Findley
Chick Hobbs-Hoover
Shirlene L. Jensen
David and Verda Lusk
Blaine and Julie Neff
Randy and Dianne Norton
Frank J. Prickett
R. Scott and Pat Rasmussen
Gradyn and Sydney Staley
James and Sharon Turpin
$2,500 - $4,999
AceCo Precision Manufacturing
The DeVlieg Foundation
ON Semiconductor
P4 Production, LLC
J-U-B Engineers, Inc.
Nucor Steel Utah
ODells Furniture
$1,000 - $2,499
Idaho Central Credit Union Administration
Intermountain Power Source
ISU Credit Union - Business Office
Restore Rite LLC
Industrial Metals Enterprises
Idaho Associated General Contractors
Virginia Transformer Corp
Citizens Community Bank
Reflections Car Club
Kiewit Corporation
Power Engineers / Power Foundation
Inc
US Bank - Pocatello
Shoshone-Bannock Tribes
Campbell Scientific Inc
$100 - $500
Stone, Genow, Smelkinson, Binder & Christopher, LLP
Greenskeeper Landscape & Excavation
AmeriTitle
L & L Mechanical, Inc.
Sage Dental
Counter Strike Supply Company
Premier Technology, Inc.
GBI Insulation
Greater Pocatello Association of Realtors
Skills USA Auto Body/C Tech ISU
Paul Davis Restoration
Servpro of Blackfoot/Pocatello
Ricks Electric
Motor Mart
NEW HIRES
Kutler Bunnell Clinical Instructor Welding
Jesse Call-Feit Academic Advisor Student Services
Bailey Chambers Apprenticeship Assistant Continuing Education & Workforce Training
Robert Cromie Clinical Instructor Automotive Technology
Danny Duncan Director of Clinical Education & Clinical Instructor Respiratory Therapy
Derek Harmon Clinical Instructor Energy Systems Technology Education Center
Dan Kunkel Technical Records Specialist Adult Education
Ben Lampe Clinical Instructor
Industrial Cybersecurity
Ellen Leith
TAP Center Coordinator Student Services
Melissa Lile Clinical Instructor Cosmetology
Becky Mann
Clinical Instructor
Medical Assisting
Every effort has been made to ensure that the donor list is complete and correct. We apologize in advance for any errors and would appreciate you bringing them to our attention by contacting Jessica Cooper, jessicacooper@isu.edu
Corinne Mccullough Coordinator CTE Advanced Opportunities
Blanca Mendez
Customer Service Representative Adult Education
Nikelle Morrison Technical Records Specialist Student Services
Alicia Ortiz Recruitment Specialist Marketing and Recruitment
Michael Plowman Director of Development
Lindsey Pratt Clinical Instructor Physical Therapist Assistant
Alyssa St John Recruitment Specialist Marketing and Recruitment
Jennifer Stone
Customer Service Representative Student Services
Haley Taylor
Customer Service Representative Marketing and Recruitment
Sarah Willis Senior Accountant Business Office
Jessica Wilson-Lucero Grants Specialist
RETIREES
Bryan Barclay Clinical Senior Instructor Technical General Education
Mike Evans Instructor/Program Coordinator Aircraft Maintenance
John Koehne Instruction Assistant Auto Collision Repair & Refinishing
Kathryn Ludwig Senior Accountant Business Office
Steve Maclure Clinical Instructor Energy Systems Technology Education Center
Scott Rasmussen Dean Teena Rhoades Department Chair Business and Support Services
Robin Terrell Coordinator Medical Assisting
COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
921 S. 8th Ave Stop 8230
Pocatello, Idaho 83209-8230
PPUBR
#IdahoStateTech
Nondiscrimination Statement
Idaho State University (“University or ISU or recipient”) is committed to providing a workplace and educational environment, as well as other benefits, programs, and activities that are free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. To ensure compliance with federal and state civil rights laws1 and regulations and to affirm its commitment to promoting the goals of fairness and equity in all aspects of the education program or activity, ISU has developed internal policies and procedures that provide a prompt, fair and impartial process for those involved in an allegation of discrimination or harassment on the basis of protected class status, and for allegations of retaliation. ISU values and upholds the equal dignity of all members of its community and strives to balance the rights of the parties in the grievance process during what is often a difficult time for all those involved. To learn more please visit : https://www.isu.edu/media/libraries/aaeo/ISUPP-3100.pdf
