With the Care Forward initiative, CMU has increased its ability to train students in health care fields such as emergency medical technicians, nurse practitioners and medical office assistants. Care Forward dollars have enabled CMU Tech to expand programs, increase enrollment and provide students with financial support to help them enter the workforce.

From 2021-22 to 2023-24, enrollment in programs supported by Care Forward increased by 50%. Since the program began, more than 440 students have earned certificates or degrees.

CMU initially received $1.38 million from the state, then received an additional $525,000 in fall 2024 due to successful use of funds.

Early data for the 2024-25 academic year indicates that this upward 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 was equally rewarding to see students improve their lives through career and technical education at no cost to the student. I see this program changing lives every day and I am grateful to play a small part in it.”

Care Forward funding has made it possible for more than 540 first-generation students to pursue stable, well-paying careers by attending CMU Tech.

A total of 316 minority students benefited from these opportunities, increasing diversity in fields where they are traditionally underrepresented, the release said.

The other state-funded program, Career Advance Colorado, awarded CMU Tech $3.67 million. The program expands educational opportunities in other high-demand sectors such as fire science, electrical construction and early childhood education.

CMU Tech has seen a 20 percent increase in enrollment in Career Advance programs.

Student certifications in electrical construction increased by over 40%.

Those interested in enrolling in Career Advance’s no-cost programs, including early childhood education, fire science, HVAC, electrical construction, the Western Colorado Peace Officer Academy or licensed practical nursing can go to www.coloradomesa.edu/tech/admissions.

For the more than 30 other programs offered at CMU Tech, the CMU Promise can help cover tuition for families who qualify.