Interest was high as a focus group met June 15 at the Leeper Center in Wellington to discuss the possibility of offering Front Range Community College courses in town. Wellington mayor Jack Brinkhoff, trustee Ashley Macdonald and Rotarian Ted Cluett were the force behind setting up a series of focus groups to determine needs and interest in the community. Boys and Girls Club executive Kathi Wright was also a prime mover. Front Range Community College consultant Connie Krupp moderated the discussion
Adam Crowe, business manager for Larimer County Workforce Development, described the current labor shortage and skills gap he sees in his position.
The conversation was wide-ranging, identifying any training currently available in Wellington to expressing the need for areas of expertise such as child care workers, heavy equipment operators, diesel mechanics, welders, food safety workers, LPNs, electricians, plumbers, diesel mechanics and re-certification needs in many areas.
Community member Curtis Bridges suggested approaching 4 Rivers Equipment to sponsor and perhaps provide a facility, though the early planning stages are concentrating on assessing needs and interest.
“This idea really makes sense,” Brinkhoff said. He wants to develop a plan that could serve the whole county.
Anyone interested in this project can contact Lynn Vosler, director of workforce development at Front Range Community College to receive information as the project moves ahead.