North Idaho College (NIC) has been selected to advance in NASA’s Aerospace State Hubs for Skilled Technical Workforce Initiative, a national program aimed at addressing a projected shortage of one million aerospace and defense workers across the United States by 2030.
The recognition places NIC among just 15 organizations nationwide invited to submit concept papers to NASA. The initiative supports the development of stronger educational pathways and closer alignment between technical training and high-demand jobs in aerospace and advanced manufacturing.
NIC’s proposal builds on longstanding collaboration with the Coeur d’Alene Area Economic Development Corporation and the regional Aerospace Tech Hub. Together, these partners have focused on linking education with regional industry needs to ensure a pipeline of skilled workers. NASA’s business partner, Guardians of Honor, will reimburse NIC for its development costs during this phase.
“This is about building bridges from high school through college and into the aerospace workforce,” said Colby Mattila, NIC’s executive director of workforce and economic development. “It’s a chance to show that North Idaho has the talent and partnerships to meet national needs.”
If selected to move forward, NIC and its partners will help design and implement models that connect education with career opportunities in aerospace and defense. The effort would expand opportunities for students while positioning Idaho as a contributor to national workforce development in the sector.
