Davis Technical College Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Established in 1978, Davis Technical College (Davis Tech) is a public technical institution located in Kaysville, Utah. The college offers competency-based education in an open-entry, open-exit environment, preparing over 6,000 high school and adult students annually with career and technical skills. Training is provided at the Kaysville campus, local high schools, and the Davis Tech Freeport in Clearfield, Utah. Davis Tech is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education.

Mission and Vision

Mission: "We shape futures and strengthen communities through technical education."

Vision: "Davis Tech will be an innovative leader in delivering exceptional technical training that supports economic development."

Primary Areas of Focus

Davis Tech offers more than 30 programs across various schools, including:

Business and Information Technology: Programs such as Software Development and Cybersecurity.

Construction: Training in trades like Plumbing and Electrical Apprenticeship.

Health Professions: Courses including Practical Nursing and Medical Assisting.

Manufacturing: Programs like Welding Technology and Composite Materials Technology.

Service Professions: Training in areas such as Cosmetology and Culinary Arts.

Transportation: Courses including Diesel/Heavy Duty Technology.

Industry Significance

Davis Tech plays a crucial role in Utah's workforce development by providing hands-on, industry-relevant training. The college's strong partnerships with local employers ensure that programs are aligned with current industry needs, leading to high job placement rates for graduates. In 2024, Davis Tech was recognized as the Best of State for Vocational Training-Public, underscoring its commitment to educational excellence and community impact.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Affordable Education: Offering cost-effective training with flexible scheduling to foster student success.

Industry Partnerships: Engaging with business leaders to create state-of-the-industry programs, ensuring students are job-ready upon graduation.

Community Services: Providing valuable services such as a bi-weekly free dental clinic for households below 150% of the federal poverty index.

Areas of Specialization

Davis Tech specializes in competency-based, hands-on training across various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, information technology, and construction. The college's programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of Utah's industries.

Key Technologies Utilized

The college employs state-of-the-art facilities and equipment to provide practical training. For example, the Welding Technology program is accredited by the American Welding Society (AWS), ensuring that students receive training that meets industry standards.

Primary Markets Targeted

Davis Tech primarily serves high school and adult students in Davis and Morgan counties, focusing on preparing a technically skilled workforce for Utah's employers. The college also offers training at the Millcreek Youth Center for incarcerated juveniles and the Utah Department of Corrections, demonstrating its commitment to diverse community needs.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a public institution, Davis Tech receives funding from state appropriations, tuition, and fees. The college's affordable tuition model allows full-time adult students to attend for a base rate of $2.66 per hour, while high school students attend at no tuition cost.

Recent Financial Highlights

In 2022, Davis Tech had an average net price of $7,560 after financial aid. Approximately 32% of undergraduate students received financial aid through grants.

Utilization of Capital

Funds are utilized to maintain and enhance educational programs, facilities, and services, ensuring that students receive high-quality, industry-relevant training. The college's commitment to affordability and accessibility is evident in its tuition structure and financial aid offerings.

Pipeline Development

Key Programs and Development Stages

Davis Tech continually develops and updates its programs to align with industry demands. Recent initiatives include the launch of three new certification programs for women at the Utah State Correctional Facility, demonstrating the college's commitment to expanding educational opportunities.

Target Conditions and Timelines

The college aims to address workforce shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology. Programs are designed to be completed in less than a year, allowing students to quickly enter the workforce.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

While specific proprietary technologies are not detailed, Davis Tech employs advanced equipment and methodologies in its training programs to ensure students are proficient with current industry tools and practices.

Significant Scientific Methods

The college utilizes competency-based education, allowing students to progress at their own pace and focus on mastering specific skills. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of their chosen fields.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Darin Brush – President: Leading the institution with a focus on affordable, flexible higher education that prepares individuals for high-skill, high-demand jobs.

Jeff Lund – Vice President and Chief Financial Officer: Overseeing the college's financial operations and strategic planning.

Kelly Simerick – Vice President of Instruction and Student Success: Guiding instructional programs and student support services to enhance educational outcomes.

Alison Anderson – Associate Vice President of Instruction: Supporting the development and implementation of instructional strategies.

Samantha Cusenza – Associate Vice President of Student Success: Focusing on initiatives that promote student achievement and retention.

Scott Hoffman – Associate Vice President of Human Resources: Managing human resource functions to support faculty and staff.

Owen Horne – Associate Vice President of Research and Strategy: Leading research efforts and strategic initiatives to advance the college's mission.

Wendee Cole – Chief of Staff: Coordinating administrative functions and supporting executive leadership.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within the college's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The technical education sector in Utah is competitive, with several institutions offering similar programs. The demand for skilled workers in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology continues to grow, driving the need for quality technical education.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Ogden-Weber Technical College: Offers a range of technical programs and serves a similar geographic area.

Tooele Technical College: Provides competency-based education with flexible scheduling.

Dixie Technical College: Focuses on hands-on training in various technical fields.

These institutions, like Davis Tech, are part of the Utah System of Technical Colleges and share a commitment to providing industry-aligned education.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Significant Collaborations

Utah Department of Corrections: Launched three new certification programs for women at the Utah State Correctional Facility, expanding educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals.

Local Employers: Engages with business leaders to create state-of-the-industry programs, ensuring students are job-ready upon graduation.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

Davis Tech's commitment to affordability, flexibility, and industry relevance positions it strongly in the technical education market. The college's open-entry, open-exit model allows students to start and progress through programs at their own pace, catering to diverse learner needs.

Competitive Advantages