Chatting with Chemeketa

Behind the Scenes at Chemeketa: Workforce Pathways and Community Events

How does Chemeketa connect people to opportunity and bring the community together? In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, Jessica Howard and Les Wielgos explore the work happening behind the scenes to support students, employers, and the broader community.
In the first half of the show, they’re joined by Nick Recktenwald, Dean of Academic Development and Workforce Programs and Partnerships, for a conversation about workforce partnerships, academic development, and how Chemeketa supports learners at every stage, from building foundational skills to preparing for careers and long-term success.
In the second half, Elizabeth Facanha, Manager of Event and Food Services, shares how Chemeketa creates welcoming, well-run events and opens campus spaces to the community, from open houses and performances to conferences, celebrations, and more.
This episode highlights how thoughtful planning, strong partnerships, and dedicated people help Chemeketa prepare individuals for what’s next while creating spaces where the community can come together.

Building Skills and Creating Second Chances

This week, on Chatting with Chemeketa, we’re spotlighting two powerful ways Chemeketa helps people move forward.
First, Matt Geiger from the Center for Business & Industry shares how Chemeketa partners with employers to strengthen our regional workforce through customized training and professional development.
Then, Katie Dwyer, Director of Prison Education and Adult Re-entry, joins us to talk about how education creates real second chances — supporting individuals during incarceration and as they transition back into the community.
Two conversations. One mission: opportunity through education.

Building Skills, Building Safety: Two Sides of Chemeketa Excellence

The newest episode of Chatting with Chemeketa brings listeners into two areas that shape everyday life at the college: robotics and campus safety.
First, Chuck Sekafetz, instructor in Electronics, Robotics & Applied Technologies, shares how his students learn to solve problems using real-world technology. From automation to hands-on projects, Chuck explains how the program prepares students for high-demand careers.
Next, John McIlvain, Chemeketa’s Director of Emergency & Risk Management, talks about what it takes to keep our campus prepared and protected. He offers insight into planning, prevention, and the behind-the-scenes work that supports a safe learning environment.
It’s an engaging, informative episode that highlights the people who help make Chemeketa strong, innovative, and ready for the future.

From Blueprints to Budgets

Ever wonder how you can start your engineering degree right here at Chemeketa — or how to make college more affordable? This week on Chatting with Chemeketa, Jessica Howard and Les Wielgos talk with Engineering Instructor Halston Tuss and Financial Aid Director Rob Hoffman about hands-on learning, transfer pathways, and how to find scholarships and grants that make higher education accessible for everyone.

Accessibility, Culture, and the Power of Community

On this week’s Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and Les Wielgas initiate two inspiring conversations about what makes Chemeketa such a special place to learn, work, and belong.
First, hear from Karen Alexander, Director of Student Accessibility & Testing Services, about how Chemeketa is breaking down barriers so every student can succeed.
Then, Vivi Caleffi Prichard, Associate Vice President of Culture & Community, joins the show to discuss the power of belonging and how Chemeketa is tackling Oregon’s loneliness epidemic through care, connection, and community engagement.

Caring for the Future: Nursing Degrees & Speech Pathology Careers

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and co-host Marie Hulett welcome special guests to highlight two major academic pathways shaping the future of health care and education. Dean of Health Sciences Sandi Kellogg joins the conversation to unveil Chemeketa’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, created in partnership with community colleges across Oregon, which will allow registered nurses to complete their BSN close to home while advancing their careers. Later, program lead Ashley Northam introduces listeners to Chemeketa’s long-standing and nationally recognized Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program, explaining how it addresses a critical workforce shortage and equips graduates to support speech-language pathologists in schools, clinics, and health care settings. Together, these conversations showcase Chemeketa’s commitment to expanding opportunity, meeting community needs, and preparing students for meaningful, in-demand careers.

Chemeketa Conversations: Music, Confidence, and College Affordability

In this episode, Chemeketa President Jessica Howard and co-host Les Wielgos explore two inspiring topics that show how Chemeketa enriches lives both inside and outside the classroom.
First, the spotlight is on music. Chemeketa’s Music Program Director and Chair Bryce Tomlin joins the show to share how the program gives students a creative outlet while building teamwork, confidence, and lifelong skills. Bryce talks about exciting updates in the music area and previews performances planned for the coming academic year.
Next, the conversation turns to affordability. Scholarship Coordinator Juan Saldaña highlights Chemeketa’s scholarship opportunities that make college more accessible to students across the region. Juan explains how to apply, the workshops available for support, and the important role donors and grants play in helping students succeed.

Firing on All Cylinders: Diesel & Fire Protection at Chemeketa

This week on Chatting with Chemeketa, Marie Hulett and Les Wielgos take you inside two of Chemeketa’s most high-powered programs. First up, Diesel Technology lead instructor Kevin Ruby shares how his students swept the top five spots at the state SkillsUSA competition—and what it takes to turn raw talent into industry-ready expertise. Then, Fire Protection instructor Joshua Darland joins the conversation with updates on rebuilding the Fire Suppression and Fire Prevention programs. If you’re considering a career in diesel mechanics, firefighting, or just love hearing stories of skill, passion, and student success, this episode is packed with inspiration, insider tips, and proof that Chemeketa is where futures ignite.

Big League Dreams & Big Campus Changes

What do a brand-new baseball team and a flurry of campus renovations have in common? They’re both part of Chemeketa’s big summer lineup! In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, Marie Hulett and Les Wielgos welcome Pat Zajac, General Manager of the Marion Berries, to talk about Salem’s newest collegiate baseball team, how it landed at Chemeketa, and what it means for the community. Then, we take you behind the scenes with Isaac Talley and Dee Dixon from our Facilities team for a tour of the exciting upgrades happening all across campus—from seismic safety to kitchen remodels and more. Whether you're here for the ballgames or the building projects, this is one episode you won’t want to miss!

Bridging Gaps and Building Confidence: Student Support at Chemeketa

On this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, guest host Marie Hulett joins Les Wielgos for an inside look at how Chemeketa is helping students succeed—both inside and outside the classroom. First up, Jennifer Cox, Dean of Library and Learning Resources, shares how the college is closing the digital divide through laptop lending, embedded tutoring, new tech tools, and fun summer events at the library, including a Comic Book launch and a community-wide library road trip.
Then we head to the Math Hub with STEM faculty member Leslie Maksun, who walks us through how this dynamic space supports students at all levels of math—offering calculators, faculty-led drop-ins, exam space, computers, study zones, and even orchids! Whether you're tackling algebra or just need a quiet place to work, the Math Hub has your back.