Columbia Gorge Community College Market Research Report

Background

Columbia Gorge Community College (CGCC) is a public two-year institution located in The Dalles, Oregon, within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Established in 1977, CGCC's mission is to provide equitable access to education, empower students through learning, and drive inclusive prosperity within the community. The college envisions itself as an innovative and excellent institution that champions equity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging among students, employees, and the community.

Key Strategic Focus

CGCC offers a diverse range of programs, including collegiate transfer, career and technical education, pre-college, community education, degree completion, customized training, and certificate programs. Notably, the college provides certification programs in Nursing, Health Occupations, and Renewable Energy Technology.

Financials and Funding

As a public institution, CGCC's financial support primarily comes from local property taxes, state community college support funds, and tuition. The Columbia Gorge Community College Foundation, a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to fundraising and supporting the college's mission.

In the 2021-2022 fiscal year, CGCC contributed nearly $45 million to the local economy and supported 645 jobs in the region.

Pipeline Development

CGCC has recently introduced new academic programs, including Advanced Manufacturing and Technology, Aviation Maintenance Technology, and partnerships with organizations like the National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education and Green Flower Inc. These initiatives aim to meet the evolving educational and workforce needs of the community.

Technological Platform and Innovation

CGCC has invested in modern technology infrastructure, utilizing tools such as Varnish, Google Docs, Nginx, and Adobe Creative Suite. These technologies support the college's operations and enhance the learning experience for students.

Leadership Team

Dr. Kenneth Lawson: President. Dr. Lawson assumed the presidency in 2023, bringing extensive experience in higher education leadership.

Leadership Changes

In 2023, Dr. Kenneth Lawson succeeded Marta Yera-Cronin as president of CGCC. Prior to joining CGCC, Dr. Lawson served as Vice President of Instruction at Skagit Valley College in Mt. Vernon, Washington.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The community college sector in Oregon is competitive, with institutions striving to offer diverse programs and attract a broad student base. CGCC's unique location and specialized programs position it as a key player in the region.

Competitor Analysis

Portland Community College (PCC): As the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon, PCC serves over 50,000 students and offers a wide range of programs.

Clark College: Located in Vancouver, Washington, Clark College is the largest institution of higher education in southwest Washington, serving approximately 11,500 students.

Klamath Community College: With a student population of 1,580, Klamath Community College offers similar programs and serves a comparable demographic.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

CGCC has established partnerships with organizations such as the National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education and Green Flower Inc. to enhance its program offerings and provide students with diverse learning opportunities.

Operational Insights

CGCC's strategic initiatives, including the introduction of new programs and investment in infrastructure, position the college to meet the evolving educational needs of the community. The college's commitment to equity and inclusion further strengthens its competitive advantage.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

CGCC's recent capital investments, such as the construction of the Columbia Gorge Regional Skills Center and Chinook Residence Hall, demonstrate a commitment to enhancing campus infrastructure. These developments, coupled with the introduction of new academic programs, present opportunities for growth and expansion in the coming years.