Central Wyoming College Seeks Community Support to Sustain Critical ESL Workforce Training Programs in Jackson
Central Wyoming College Seeks Community Support to Sustain Critical ESL Workforce Training Programs in Jackson
Jackson, WY — Central Wyoming College (CWC) is calling on community partners, employers, and local agencies to help sustain a vital educational program serving adult English language learners in Jackson and surrounding areas.
Central Wyoming College’s College and Career Readiness (CCR) program was awarded the federal Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE) grant in July 2025—an honor granted to only one college in Wyoming every five years. Funded under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), the IELCE program provides adult learners with more than just English instruction. It integrates language acquisition with workforce training, job readiness, and civic engagement.
However, recent federal policy changes requiring proof of legal residency for enrollment in CCR programs, combined with the emergence of non-coordinated community education ESL offerings, have led to a significant decline in enrollment—putting the future of the program at risk.
“This program offers life-changing opportunities,” said Christy Pyles, Director of College and Career Readiness at CWC. “We are not just teaching English—we are preparing individuals for meaningful careers, helping them earn credentials, and strengthening our local workforce.”
Workforce-Focused ESL Pathways
Under the leadership of IELCE Program Manager and Instructor Ellen Kappus, Ph.D., CWC has developed innovative Integrated Education and Training (IET) pathways tailored to local workforce needs. Participants receive:
Students can pursue multiple pathways, including:
Certification opportunities include:
CWC continues to lead Wyoming in employer-based IET programming.
New Construction Training Program Addresses Workforce Gap
Central Wyoming College recently launched a new Carpenter’s Assistant program, approved March 13, 2026, in partnership with Christian Ruiz Construction. This innovative program combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training, helping entry-level laborers advance into skilled roles.
The program addresses a critical workforce gap in Teton County, where there is a shortage of mid-level construction workers such as carpenter assistants.
“We’re building a pathway for workers to move up, not just stay in entry-level positions,” Pyles said.
Central Wyoming College hopes to expand this model to additional construction firms in Teton, Fremont, and Hot Springs Counties, as well as grow partnerships with local restaurants through the ServSafe program.
Expanding Access to Spanish-Speaking Learners
In a major step forward, Central Wyoming College has expanded its HiSET program to include Spanish-speaking learners. Students can now complete coursework and testing in Spanish, or begin in Spanish while building English proficiency—removing a key barrier to educational advancement.
Call to Action
Despite its success and impact, the IELCE program faces an uncertain future due to declining enrollment. Central Wyoming College is urging:
“Our community benefits when people are empowered with skills, education, and opportunity,” said Pyles. “We need collaboration to ensure this program continues to serve those who need it most.”
For more information or to partner with CWC CCR programs, please contact:
Christy Pyles
Director of College and Career Readiness
Central Wyoming College
📞 307-855-2189
📍 Main Hall 178A
\About Central Wyoming College CCR Program
The College and Career Readiness program at Central Wyoming College provides adult learners with the education and skills needed to succeed in the workforce, pursue further education, and engage in their communities.
Learn more about admissions or to register for classes, visit www.cwc.edu/admissions or contact Central Wyoming College at admit@cwc.edu or call 307-855-2115.