#USA #InsideTrack #student coaching #Oregon Institute #Klamath Falls

Oregon Institute of Technology Expands Student Coaching Initiative

The Oregon Institute of Technology, also known as Oregon Tech, has announced an ambitious expansion of its student support initiative, aiming to enhance retention rates and re-engage students who have paused their studies. With a current enrollment of more than 5,300 students, this initiative is notably crucial for promoting success among individuals pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

In partnership with the nonprofit organization InsideTrack, Oregon Tech will offer personalized coaching services tailored to meet the unique needs of its diverse student body. The primary goal is to assist learners not just in enrolling but helping them persist and ultimately complete their academic programs. Greg Stringer, the associate vice provost for strategic enrollment management, emphasized the importance of adaptability in their approach to addressing students' evolving needs. He stated, “Our coaching program has grown rapidly, driven by the entrepreneurial mindset we embrace here.”

Over the past 18 months, Oregon Tech has steadily developed high-touch support systems for students, focusing particularly on re-engaging those who had previously left the university. Initially, coaching efforts targeted outreach for re-enrolling students but have since evolved to include proactive strategies for incoming students and ongoing support for those confronting academic or personal challenges.

Ruth Claire Black, Oregon Tech’s dean of online learning, commented on the realities faced by many modern students. “Given the demanding balance of work, family, and financial commitments, simply opening the door to education isn’t enough. We must actively walk alongside students during their educational paths.” This inclusive coaching philosophy is designed to empower students at various points of their journeys, whether they are new enrollees, returning individuals, or those facing obstacles in their studies.

Across the state of Oregon, approximately 500,000 individuals hold some college credits but lack a degree, highlighting the timeliness of Oregon Tech’s initiative amidst the state's educational goals. Oregon has set an ambitious 40-40-20 framework, established in 2011, aiming for all young adults to obtain a high school diploma, postsecondary certificate, or college degree by a specific timeline. The growth of this coaching initiative aligns with those objectives, helping to create pathways for student success in the higher education landscape.

Partially funded through grants from Oregon's Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC), the program illustrates the state's commitment to enhancing student success across its public academic institutions. The financial backing will facilitate innovative coaching methods to not only support existing students but also guide prospective students in selecting appropriate degree offerings ranging from certificates to bachelor’s programs.

“The student population at Oregon Tech reflects a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, including first-generation students, working adults, transfer learners, and those returning to school to advance their careers,” explained Ruth Bauer, president of InsideTrack. “It is vital to ensure these individuals are not navigating their educational journeys alone. With coaching at its core, Oregon Tech is dedicated to delivering sustainable support that helps students stay on track and realize their full potential.”

As it stands, Oregon Tech constitutes Oregon's sole public polytechnic university, providing rigorous academic training alongside practical experiences in fields such as engineering, health sciences, technology, and business. Combining classroom learning with internships and experiential learning opportunities, Oregon Tech prepares students not only for graduation but also for meaningful careers in a rapidly evolving workforce.

With a commitment to its student population's success, Oregon Tech continues to leverage partnerships and innovative coaching methodologies to inspire and guide future leaders. For further information about Oregon Tech and its initiatives, please visit www.oit.edu.

About the Organizations

Oregon Tech:
The Oregon Institute of Technology stands as Oregon's only public polytechnic university, providing hands-on education focused on engineering, technology, health sciences, and applied sciences. Its campuses in Klamath Falls and Portland-Metro, along with its online program offerings, engage over 5,300 students dedicated to achieving success in their chosen fields.

InsideTrack:
As a nonprofit organization, InsideTrack has been committed to empowering learners towards achieving their educational and career aspirations through coaching since its inception in 2001. With a focus on improving enrollment, retention, and completion rates, InsideTrack collaborates with numerous institutions to facilitate positive change in students' lives and propel them toward future opportunities.