Dec 9, 2025 | Community, Foundation, News
Coos Bay, OR — The Judith Ann Mogan Foundation awarded an $80,000 grant to Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation to support construction of a new Diesel Mechanic Technology building. This investment will help the College expand workforce training for students pursuing careers in diesel mechanics and heavy equipment maintenance.
“For more than a decade, local industry partners have told us they need trained diesel mechanics,” said Foundation Chairman Arnie Roblan. “With the right people, at a critical time and with strong business support, we are going to make a local training program a reality.”
That’s why the SWOCC Foundation and the College are partnering to raise $1 million to construct the new Diesel Technology building, aiming for completion in fall 2026 on the Coos Bay campus.
Diesel mechanics are in high demand across Oregon. The state projects nearly 430 annual job openings over the next eight years, but training programs graduate only enough newly trained diesel mechanics to fill a third of those jobs. This facility will help close that gap by preparing more students to move into diesel mechanic jobs locally.
The new diesel shop will provide expanded lab and classroom space equipped with industry-standard diagnostic and repair tools. Students will gain practical training in the technologies used by employers in transportation, manufacturing, global trade and natural resource industries across Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.
“The new diesel mechanic program aligns with the Judith Ann Mogan Foundation priority of supporting business and economic development here in the South Coast. The program provides new opportunities for our high school graduates and individuals looking to change careers by training the next generation of mechanics, ensuring long-term availability of these types of services locally,” said Executive Director Marjorie Crook.
In September, 30-year diesel industry expert and business owner Terry Cheyne stepped in to lead the program in a temporary shop with 9 students currently enrolled. To support the program and get ready for the new shop, regional businesses have donated more than $200,000 in equipment.
“A lot of people think teaching diesel technology is just about engines. It is much more that – it’s about building confidence, skills and a future for every student who walks into my classroom,” Cheyne said. “I believe in being straightforward because in this industry, clarity and precision matter.”
The Diesel Mechanic Technology building is part of SWOCC’s larger commitment to invest in career-technical education programs that meet local workforce needs and open doors for students into high-demand, stable careers.
“Our region depends on skilled trades professionals,” said Dr. Patty Scott, Southwestern President. “In a rural, isolated area like ours, industries that rely on diesel technology are vital to our economy. By expanding this program, we’re helping local employers remain competitive while preparing students for high-skilled, well-paying careers.”
To learn more about the Diesel Technology at SWOCC, visit www.socc.edu/dieselmechanic.
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Over the past five years, the Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation has invested more than $1.2 million in scholarships and an additional $1 million in equipment and capital improvements to support the College and its students. These investments strengthen academic programs, expand hands-on training opportunities, and help ensure students have access to the teaching, tools and facilities they need to succeed.
Dec 4, 2025 | Community, News, OCCI News
Coos Bay, OR – Celebrate the holiday season while supporting a great cause! Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI) invites the community to purchase festive stollen, handmade by OCCI chefs, from December 6–22, 2025. Proceeds will benefit the culinary competition team, helping these aspiring chefs showcase their skills on a national stage.
What is stollen?
Stollen is a traditional German holiday bread filled with dried fruits, nuts, and almond paste, dusted with powdered sugar for a festive, snowy finish. Known for its rich, slightly sweet flavor, it’s a perfect addition to your holiday table!
Meet-and-Greet Kickoff Event
Join OCCI chefs on December 6 from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for a special kickoff event:
- When: December 6, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Where: Past to Present Emporium, 281 South Broadway, Coos Bay
- What: Meet OCCI’s chef instructors, sample holiday treats, and shop for pastries by Chef Alison Murphy and, of course, stollen.
Sales will continue through December 22nd, so there’s plenty of time to grab delicious handmade treats for your holiday celebrations.
For more information and to purchase stollen, call 541-808-9553.
Dec 3, 2025 | Community, Curry Campus, Curry News, News
Brookings, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College Curry Campus invites the community to join us on Thursday, December 11, 2025, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. for: Christmas Traditions Around the World.
This is a free program sponsored by the Friends of Curry Campus and will be held in the Community Room on Southwestern’s Curry Campus, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway (off Highway 101), Brookings. Bring a friend!
The theme of the December lecture at Curry Campus is “Christmas Traditions Around the World.” This is a two-part program. A group of women of Danish heritage will display a variety of Danish-based Christmas decorations and food. “Danes are in love with Jul” says Karen Morton, one of the presenters.
For the second part, Marilyn Hart will bring photos of her recent trip to the “Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light” display at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. This display, which takes place annually in November, is a must see of 50+ countries displaying the art of each country on a tree. As one participant said, “It delights the senses with its sheer beauty, but also enriches the spirit by fostering a deeper understanding of our interconnected world.”
The museum’s holiday exhibit is a beloved tradition dating back to 1942, during the height of World War II. It began humbly, with a single Christmas tree dedicated to the war allies, adorned with ornaments made by local children.
Examples of trees include an Irish tree with ornaments made of lace, or traditional Celtic knots, small cottages, sheep, shamrocks, and miniature St. Brigid’s crosses.
The tree from Mexico is a burst of vibrant colors with perforated paper banners, elaborate straw stars, figures of angels and the Virgin Mary, and perhaps even some piñata-inspired ornaments.
Hart will also present some traditions and foods from her Polish and Slovakian heritage.
Christmas is a favorite time of year for Hart, and each trip has been a learning experience, that is, learning about ethnic Christmas traditions, food, art and architecture. Hart’s travel includes seven trips to London as well as travel to all 50 states.
Hart is a Professor Emeritus of University of Wisconsin and teaches Statistics at Southwestern Oregon Community College’s Curry Campus.
All attendees will be encouraged to share their holiday traditions.
Stay tuned for upcoming talks in the Friends of Curry Campus speaker series. Winter Term lectures will feature coastal ecology and conservation. Watch for these lectures in the community education publication form the college coming to you soon in your mailbox. For more information contact the Curry Campus at 541-813-1667.
Nov 3, 2025 | Community, Curry Campus, Curry News, News, OCCI News
Winter Term and Intersession 2025-26 are quickly approaching!
- INTERSESSION (OPTIONAL) = Classes take place December 8, 2025 – January 5, 2026 (These are online, fast-track classes during Winter Break for degree or certificate seeking students)
- WINTER TERM = Classes start January 5, 2026
Below are instructions about how to register. Questions? We’re here to help! Contact us:
- Coos Campus Students: Call 541-888-7352 or Email
- Curry Campus Students: Call 541-813-1677 or Email
REGISTRATION FOR DEGREE OR CERTIFICATE SEEKING STUDENTS:
If you are already a current/admitted student, below are instructions on registering.
Not a current or admitted student? You’ll need to first complete an Application for Admission to Southwestern** – For Winter Term, submit your application by December 17, 2025 to ensure processing prior to the holiday closure. Not sure whether or not you’re an admitted student? Contact us using the information above! (**Note: If you’re a community member simply looking to take a credit class for fun or personal enrichment, you’ll complete the Community Education and Personal Enrichment Form in lieu of the Application for Admission).
WINTER TERM:
- Classes begin January 5, 2026
- Registration is available November 3, 2025 – January 7, 2026 (From January 8 – 14, 2026, you will first need instructor consent to register for a class)
TO REGISTER:
- First clear with your advisor! If you’re unsure who your advisor is, call 541-888-7405 or schedule an advising meeting. Curry Campus students call 541-813-1667.
- Login to myLakerLink using your student ID and password.
- Search for courses under the appropriate drop down and select your class(es):
- Intersession = Select “2025-26 Winter Term – Intersession” in the drop down; These will all be section “50” classes with start/end dates of 12/8/25 – 1/5/26
- Winter Term = Select “2025-26 Winter Term” in the drop down; Classes beginning 1/5/26 (not Intersession dates)
REGISTRATION FOR COMMUNITY CLASSES (COMMUNITY EDUCATION):
Winter Term 2025-26 community education class registration opens December 8, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. To register, follow the instructions on the top of the community class page. Winter Term community class listings will be updated prior to registration opening.
As a reminder, all academic term dates and other important milestones may be found on the Academic Calendar. Click on the “2025-26 Academic Calendar” button for a .pdf version or click on the “categories” button and filter for “instructional calendar” to view the online version.
Oct 29, 2025 | Community, OCCI News
Weekly Sourdough Bread Sale
Place Orders by Wednesdays at Noon:
Order Sourdough Bread
Pick-Up Weekly Knead Orders the Following Dates:
Fridays, at OCCI (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay) between 10am – 1pm
- Friday, October 31
- Friday, November 7
- Friday, November 14
- Friday, November 21
Homemade varieties of sourdough including:
- Traditional
- Savory
- Sweet
- Chef’s Choice of the Week
Oct 29, 2025 | Community, News, OCCI News
Purchase Delicious Holiday Favorites and Support Local Students!
Coos Bay, OR – This Thanksgiving season, prepare a delicious holiday meal while making a difference for local students! The Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI), in partnership with the Junior Chamber of Commerce, is once again offering a variety of holiday food items for purchase through the annual Thanksgiving Bazaar.
Orders are open now through Wednesday, November 19, 2025, to guarantee your order. This year, the ordering process is streamlined to make it even easier to get your favorite holiday dishes. Order online at the following:
Order Online!
Proceeds support the OCCI Competition Team and the Junior Chamber of Commerce Business Club, providing hands-on learning opportunities for students in both culinary and business fields.
Ordering Details: Place your order by Wednesday, November 19, 2025!
For questions or assistance with placing your order, email occi@socc.edu, or call 541-888-7309.
Pick-Up Details – Wednesday, November 26, 2025:
- OCCI (1988 Newmark Ave, Coos Bay): 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Past to Present Emporium (281 S Broadway, Coos Bay): 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Only for orders placed at the Emporium)
Menu Items Available for Sale:
- 9” Pumpkin Pie – $20 (2 for $35)
- 9” Vegan Pumpkin Pie – $22
- 9” Apple Pie – $20 (2 for $35)
- 9” Vegan Apple Pie – $22
- 10” Pecan Caramel Crunch Cheesecake (GF Option Available) – $40
- 14” Millionaire’s Shortbread Tart (GF) – $20 (Serves 6-8)
- 4 oz OCCI Turkey Spice Blend (GF) – $7
- Cowboy Candy – $8/Cup or $20/Quart
- Fresh Cranberry Sauce (GF) – $8/Cup
- Blue Cheese Dressing (GF) – $12/Pint
- Homemade Turkey Gravy – $12/Pint
- Sourdough Bread – $10
- Bread Dressing (Stuffing) – $16/lb (Serves 4-6)
- Mashed Potatoes (GF) – $16/lb (Serves 4-6)
- Seasoned Turkey Breast (GF) – $65 (Serves 4-6)
Featured Box Option:
- GRAND BOX* – $230
*Grand Box includes one each of the above items except for pies: please choose two pies, regular or vegan. No substitutions.
The Thanksgiving Bazaar is a cherished tradition that brings gourmet holiday food to local tables while supporting the next generation of culinary and business professionals. Your order helps students gain hands-on experience and grow their skills. Thank you for your support!
