Building pathways, making connections: Community outreach at CPTC
By Jean Borst
As manager of Student Diversity Outreach at Clover Park Technical College (CPTC), Ericka Lynch spends her days – and many weekends – on the move. You might find her visiting high schools, attending community events, spending time on local Tribal reservations, or connecting with students and staff across campus. Her job is about opening doors, building trust and showing people what’s possible through technical education.
“I focus on outreach,” Lynch said. “But my role is really about creating relationships that benefit the community long term.”
Events that open doors
Lynch helps lead CPTC’s largest outreach initiatives. In October and April, the college hosts expos that showcase every program on campus. These open-house events give students and community members the chance to meet instructors, ask questions and explore high career pathways.
In May, she spearheads CPTC’s Career Conference, the college’s biggest event of the year. Last year CPTC welcomed 1,300 students from area high schools. A massive car show hosted by CPTC’s Automotive Department anchors the day, while hands-on activities let students experience trades and services across campus.
“It’s a fun way to get an introduction to everything we offer – programs, financial aid, admissions, the Welcome Center. It’s a one-stop shop,” Lynch said.
Deep roots in the community
Student Diversity Outreach also ensures CPTC is a familiar presence at events across Pierce County – from Pride, SummerFest and Mosaic, to Red, White & Kaboom!, the Eatonville Art Festival and the Washington State Fair.
Brandon Dawley, Director of Outreach and Entry Services, shares the same belief. He also comes from a trades family and worked as an auto tech for years.
“There’s more value in trades now than ever,” he said.
Helping navigate next steps
Both Lynch and Dawley often meet with parents and students who are unsure about higher education.
“There are a lot of questions about return on investment,” Dawley said. “Our role is to show that technical education offers direct pathways to employment. You learn a highly skilled profession, graduate and we help you find a job. That kind of support can make all the difference, especially for first-generation, low-income students.”
“To see that transition from the first day they walk in to walking across the stage and finding employment – that’s huge,” Lynch added.
She points to students like Liam, a CPTC HVAC student and work-study participant in Student Success.
“He barely graduated from high school, but once he came here, he really found his footing,” she said. “We’ve watched him blossom – not just in his trade, but in customer service and leadership. Stories like Liam’s remind us why we do this.”
A bigger mission
At the heart of Student Diversity Outreach is a commitment to seeing students grow – academically, personally and professionally.
“To see that transition from the first day they walk in to walking across the stage at graduation and then finding employment – that’s huge,” Dawley said.
In that process, Lynch’s focus is helping each person define success for themselves.
“What we offer here at CPTC sells itself,” she said. “As a former teacher, my first question is always: What do you want, and what do you need to get there? I don’t care if you decide on CPTC or a four-year university – I just want to help you find your path.”
And if that path leads to the trades, CPTC is ready to guide them.
“Trades are the backbone of our society,” she said. “It’s exciting to see a renewed focus on them, because they’ve always mattered. We’re here to make sure students, families and communities see that too.”
Mark your calendar. The next CPTC Program Expo is 3 to 6 pm on Oct. 22. Delve into CPTC’s 40 programs, engage with instructors and pinpoint the ideal path to meet your career goals.