Idaho State University’s College of Technology is bringing home two honors from the Idaho Division of Career Technical Education this year, with the Diesel Technology/On-Site Power Generation program named Postsecondary Program of the Year and instructor Tommy Gunderson named Postsecondary Educator of the Year.

The Diesel Technology/On-Site Power Generation program secured its Program of the Year distinction through a unique, industry-driven model that sets a national standard for workforce development. Its curriculum, recognized by Associated Equipment Distributors, is continually refined by a Technical Advisory Committee representing global manufacturers like John Deere, Caterpillar, and Komatsu. This deep integration ensures the program remains at the vanguard of the industry, directly aligning student training with the evolving needs of the agricultural, trucking, and mining sectors.

A defining factor in the program’s success is its dual-enrollment partnerships with high schools across Idaho, such as Boise’s Dennis Technical Education Center and Malad High School. By allowing students to complete foundational training before even reaching the College of Technology, these partnerships have fueled the highest fall enrollment in the program’s history, creating an accelerated pipeline of skilled technicians for the Idaho workforce.

Further distinguishing the program is the level of industry investment in student success. Beyond weekly recruitment visits and tuition reimbursement programs, partners like CB Operations have provided over $6 million in equipment loans. This access to cutting-edge technology provides students with a level of hands-on experience that is unmatched by peer institutions.

Graduating with stackable credentials and specialized training in On-Site Power Generation, students are prepared for high-demand roles in hospitals, government facilities, and military installations.

Gunderson, an instructor in the College of Techology’s Information Technology Systems program, is a retired Marine with 24 years of service whose career spanned network security, the Department of Justice and national infrastructure systems before he joined ISU. Now in his sixth semester with the college, he has rebuilt the IT Systems program around hands-on learning, industry certifications and direct employer connections.