Southwestern Oregon Community College is purchasing equipment for the new associate of science degree program with forestry emphasis thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Coquille Tribal Community Fund. “This funding partnership between the SWOCC Foundation and the Tribe makes it possible for the college to buy top-quality equipment that will be used to educate and train new students,” said Mark Wall, SWOCC Foundation president. “This will help meet the forestry profession’s increasing need for more highly trained workers.” South Coast businesses and statewide organizations have also contributed to fund the Forestry/Natural Resources Program’s two-year start up. SWOCC enrolled its first class of students in fall term and is outfitting the program with hands-on equipment to help train future foresters. Students who complete this two-year degree at SWOCC will be ready for entry-level jobs or can transfer as juniors to the Oregon State University Pro School of Forestry bachelor’s degree program. The SWOCC Foundation supports the college through promotion of philanthropy to improve people’s lives – socially, culturally, economically and educationally – through Friend-raising and Fundraising.
