Occupational Trades Building Becomes FVCC Trades Institute

Kalispell, Mont. — As part of Flathead Valley Community College’s
commitment to serving as the premier hub for workforce training and skills-based education in
Northwest Montana, the college has renamed its Occupational Trades building the FVCC
Trades Institute. The new name reflects the evolution of FVCC’s trades programs over the past
decade and signals a bold future of innovation, technical training and career readiness. It also
highlights the college’s expanding partnerships with local industries seeking highly skilled
employees.
FVCC’s Executive Director of Workforce Development, Lisa Blank, described how the timeline
to becoming career-ready has evolved to meet changing workforce demands. “At FVCC, we’re
constantly listening to the needs of our community and building programs that help people
advance in their careers, earn a livable wage and support their families. Some of our programs
take two years, while others can launch you into the workforce in a matter of weeks. This
flexibility helps our learners access the skills they need, when they need them.”
The majority of FVCC Trades Institute programs can take anywhere from 2 semesters to
complete a certificate program to 2 years to earn an associate of applied science degree. Many
programs offer several tracks for students to choose from based on their educational and career
goals. (AAS: Associate of Applied Science–2 years to complete, CAS: Certificate of Applied
Science–2 semesters to complete, CTS: Certificate of Technical Studies–2 semesters to
complete)

Program durations are designed to accommodate students just beginning their college journey
as well as students returning to college after time in the workforce. To better support a wide
range of student needs, FVCC’s workforce group developed "career-credential" short courses,
which offer flexible options for varying schedules and circumstances. Local employers play a
crucial role in shaping FVCC programs by highlighting the need for specifically trained workers.
In response, FVCC is actively partnering with area businesses to create a variety of tailored
training opportunities.
“The goal behind FVCC’s career credential courses is to provide short, targeted training that
helps people quickly gain practical skills,” said Blank. “These courses offer a fast, flexible path
for anyone looking to advance in their current job or start a brand-new career. Students can
earn a credential quickly that is recognized by employers, leading to a skilled workforce and
higher wages.”
FVCC’s career credential courses are intended to be stackable. This means students can
complete multiple short courses over time and apply those credits toward a degree or certificate
if they choose. It allows learners to build their education step-by-step while gaining valuable,
employable skills along the way.

FVCC Trades Institute offers a wide breadth of programs designed to support student success
in the workforce. With evening class times to accommodate students balancing work and other
commitments, these programs and courses provide practical, hands-on training and
industry-recognized credentials. Students gain the skills needed to build successful careers and
thrive in their chosen fields.

Come explore the FVCC Trades Institute for yourself at this year’s “Night of the Trades” on
October 2. This free event includes specialized sessions geared toward each career area within
the Trades Institute and access to FVCC’s expert instructors. Watch for more information and
the link to register for sessions at fvcc.edu/trades.