LCCC - Outreach & Workforce Development's Podcast

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Looking for a rewarding healthcare career without spending years in school? In this episode of Beyond the Classroom, host James Drudge visits LCCC’s Laramie Campus to talk with Jamie McKim, Manager of Outreach & Workforce Development. Jamie explains how short-term medical programs—Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Phlebotomy, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)—can launch you into the healthcare workforce in just weeks.

Discover how these programs fit busy schedules, the real-world skills students gain, and how grant funding can cover much—or even all—of the cost. Jamie also shares inspiring success stories of students who transformed their lives, plus details on employer partnerships, externships, and how these careers offer stability in a changing economy.

Whether you’re starting fresh, re-entering the workforce, or simply exploring healthcare opportunities in Albany County, Wyoming, this episode shows how LCCC helps you move from interest to employment—fast.

#HealthcareCareers #MedicalAssistant #Phlebotomy #CNA #LCCC #WorkforceDevelopment #AlbanyCounty #Wyoming 

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From vintage car parts to cutting-edge medical models, the Concept Forge at LCCC helps innovators design, scan, and build almost anything.
Host James Drudge sits down with Dave Curry to explore this high-tech makerspace featuring industrial 3D printers, laser engravers, large-format printing, metal printing, and more.

Hear how community members, students, and local businesses are using the Forge to prototype products, restore classics, and learn new skills—and find out how you can join.

📩 Details & membership info: [email protected] | https://lccc.wy.edu/manufacturing/conceptForge.aspx 

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Pitch competitions sound exciting—prize money, judges, and the chance to stand in the spotlight. But are they always the best move for your business?

In this episode of Beyond the Classroom, Lindsey Stutheit from LCCC’s Business Studio breaks down what entrepreneurs need to know before diving into a pitch & launch event. We cover qualifications, categories, prizes, the value of feedback and mentorship, and why sometimes the best decision is to protect your time and focus on other opportunities.

Whether you’re building a tech company or a local lifestyle business, this episode will help you navigate the world of contests and competitions with confidence.

📩 Learn more: [email protected]
| https://lccc.wy.edu/businessStudio/

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How does education keep up with the rapid changes in technology and industry? In this episode of Beyond the Classroom, we talk with Dave Curry from LCCC’s Advanced Manufacturing & Materials Center (AMMC) about how advisory committees, local employers, and industry partnerships shape everything from the curriculum to the equipment students train on.

From manual machining foundations to robotic welding, milling, and automation systems, students at the AMMC get hands-on with the tools that define modern manufacturing. The result? Graduates who are ready for the workforce—and employers who find the skilled talent they need.

📩 Questions or want to get involved? Contact us at [email protected]
or visit lccc.wy.edu/workforce.

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How do you prepare public sector leaders to meet today’s challenges? In this episode of Beyond the Classroom, we talk with Rhonda Priest about Wyoming’s Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program—a year-long, nationally accredited leadership development program offered exclusively at Laramie County Community College.

From team building and conflict resolution to policy, budgeting, and communication, CPM equips managers with the skills to lead with confidence. Each participant also completes a capstone project that makes a measurable impact on their agency or community.

Discover how CPM is shaping the future of public service in Wyoming.

📩 Learn more: [email protected]
| lccc.wy.edu/workforce

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How do we make sure students graduate with the skills employers actually need? In this episode of Beyond the Classroom, we talk with Tonya Hacker, Dean of LCCC’s Outreach & Workforce Development, about how aligning education with real industry demands helps close the skills gap.

From HVAC apprenticeships and manufacturing boot camps to healthcare programs and CDL training, LCCC is building direct pipelines from the classroom to good jobs. Employers get skilled workers, students gain confidence and credentials, and our economy grows stronger.

📩 Questions? Reach out anytime at [email protected]
or visit lccc.wy.edu/workforce.

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Medical assisting is one of the fastest-growing healthcare careers — and you don’t need years in college to get started. In this episode, Christie Goertel, Manager of Life Enrichment at LCCC, explains how our 20-week Medical Assisting program combines classroom training, an externship, and certification to prepare you for in-demand jobs across Wyoming and beyond.

We cover:

• What Medical Assistants do every day.
• Pay ranges and career growth opportunities.
• The difference between MAs and other healthcare professionals.
• Why employers are eager to hire them.
• How to register and start your training at LCCC.

📞 Learn more: Call (307) 778-1236
 🌐 LCCC Life Enrichment: https://www.lccc.wy.edu/workforce/lifeEnrichment.aspx

or complete our interest form: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/013389a334554d83a5b6dad38e484011

Available now on Spotify, YouTube, Amazon, Apple, iHeartRadio, and more than 50 podcast platforms.

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Sorry, but our editor is on a well deserved break, which means unfortunately we won't have a new episode this week.  Please check back next week when we'll be discussing Outreach and Workforce Development's Medical Assisting program with Christie Goertel.

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AI isn't just a buzzword—it’s transforming industries and reshaping how we train and work. In this episode, Michael Stephens from LCCC’s Computer Skills Training team explains how LCCC is helping individuals and businesses understand and adapt to AI through accessible, short-term programs.

We dive into:

• What “AI” really means in today’s jobs
• How short courses can build real-world skills fast
• Why human creativity and communication still matter
• Where the biggest AI opportunities lie for Wyoming workers

This is a no-hype, practical conversation on what AI means for YOU and your career.

📅 New episodes Wednesdays @ 7 AM (MDT)
 🔗 CST Info: https://lccc.wy.edu/workforce-and-community/OWD/ComputerSkillsTraining

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In this episode of Beyond the Classroom, we’re joined by Lindsey Stutheit, coordinator of the Business Studio @LCCC, to dive into the many ways LCCC supports small business owners and entrepreneurs in our region. From hands-on planning and mentorship to product testing and community pitch events, the Business Studio is empowering local business growth.

Whether you’re building a side hustle or scaling your startup, discover how the Business Studio can help you succeed. Tune in and explore what’s possible when education and entrepreneurship meet.

📍 Learn more at lccc.wy.edu/BusinessStudio

New episodes every Wednesday at 7 AM!