CMU Tech maximizes Care Forward and Career Advance funds to transform students' lives and trade workforce readiness
Colorado Mesa University (CMU) is effectively utilizing two critical state-funded programs, Care Forward and Career Advance, to positively influence the lives of students and strengthen the local workforce. The financial assistance provided by the initiatives are designed to expand educational opportunities in high-demand fields in short-term training programs. CMU Tech has been a leading institution in ensuring these dollars are used to benefit students and local industries and has seen significant growth in the qualifying programs.
With the Care Forward initiative, CMU has increased its capacity to train students in critical healthcare fields, such as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), Nurse Aides and Medical Office Assistants. Care Forward dollars have enabled CMU Tech to expand programs, increase enrollment and provide students with the financial support they need to enter the workforce quickly.
From 2021-22 to 2023-24, enrollment in Care Forward-supported programs surged by 50%. Since the program’s inception, over 440 students have earned certificates or degrees, and many are now addressing critical shortages in the healthcare sector. CMU was initially awarded $1.38 million from the state and, due to its successful use of these funds, received an additional $525,000 in Fall 2024. Early data for the 2024-25 academic year indicates this growth trend will continue.
"Care Forward funding has been instrumental in helping us meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals in western Colorado," said Vice President of Technical Education and Workforce Development Brigitte Sundermann. “It’s been equally as rewarding to see students bettering their lives through career and technical education at no cost to the student. I see this program changing lives every day and I’m grateful to play a small part in it.”
CMU Tech has made significant strides in enrolling first-generation and minority students in these healthcare programs. Care Forward funding has made it possible for over 540 first-generation students to pursue stable, well-paying careers, while 316 minority students have benefitted from these opportunities, increasing diversity in fields where they are traditionally underrepresented.
While Care Forward focuses on healthcare, the Career Advance Colorado, another state-funded program that granted CMU Tech $3.67 million, expands educational opportunities in other high-demand sectors such as Fire Science, Electrical Construction and Early Childhood Education. Over the last two years, CMU has made career and technical education pathways a focus, ensuring the next generation is prepared to elevate the trades. So, it’s no surprise that like Care Forward, CMU Tech has also seen an increase in enrollment in Career Advance-supported programs, up 20%. For instance, Electrical Construction student certifications have grown by more than 40%, reflecting the demand for skilled professionals in this area.
By putting an emphasis on Care Forward and Career Advance programs, CMU is creating a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to meet the demands of Colorado’s workforce. Whether it’s producing more EMTs, Nurse Aides or Early Childhood Educators, CMU Tech ensures that students are fully prepared for the workforce upon graduation.
As these government-funded programs continue to open doors for students, CMU remains committed to maximizing their potential. With more first-generation and minority students enrolling in technical programs, CMU is playing a key role in shaping the future workforce of western Colorado.
The school’s success in utilizing these funds speaks to its ability to innovate, provide high-quality education and prepare students for long-term success in high-demand fields.
Those interested in enrolling in the Career Advance no-cost programs, including Early Childhood Education, Fire Science, HVAC, Electrical Construction, Western Colorado Peace Officers Academy or Licensed Practical Nursing should visit d0k2.orkexpo.net/tech/admissions. For the 30+ other programs offered at CMU Tech, the CMU Promise can help cover tuition for families who qualify.