EWC Breaks Ground on Douglas Campus Expansion

DOUGLAS, Wyo. – Eastern Wyoming College broke ground Wednesday on a long-planned expansion of its Douglas Campus, a project college leaders say will strengthen workforce development and provide more opportunities for students pursuing careers in the construction trades.

“We’re excited about the expansion on our Douglas Campus,” EWC President Dr. Jeffry Hawes said during the ceremony. “It is a long time in the making.”

Hawes thanked Converse County Commissioner Jim Willox and EWC Douglas Campus Vice President Dr. Margaret Farley for their leadership and support in moving the project forward.

“It is 100% led by the community,” Hawes said, noting that the effort included contributions from the City of Douglas, the Town of Glenrock, the Converse County Commission, the EWC Foundation, and other partners.

The expansion will increase instructional space and equipment for construction-trades students, enhancing hands-on learning and strengthening EWC’s long-standing role in vocational education.

Willox said the design allows for future adaptability as workforce needs evolve.

“We don’t know what all this building will house. The building is very flexible,” Willox said.

He added that the original plan called for 70% of the offerings to support two-year degree programs and 30% to support certificates.

“They may be just the opposite,” he said. “The goal is to meet the needs of the community.”

Dr. Farley said the project will bolster local industry by preparing students with practical skills.

“The new space will provide hands-on learning opportunities for students in the construction trades,” she said. “Our hope is that this will fuel the local workforce and support industry growth in Converse County.”