NAMPA, Idaho — The College of Western Idaho (CWI) has officially opened its new Agricultural Sciences Complex and Simplot Agriculture Building, a transformative addition to its Nampa campus that blends modern facilities, sustainability, and real-world learning opportunities for students.
The facility, which encompasses 40 acres of outdoor learning space and 38,000 square feet of instructional space, represents one of the most significant investments in agricultural education in the region. Designed with both innovation and sustainability in mind, the complex aims to serve as a hub for students, educators, and the broader agricultural community.
“The Agricultural Sciences Complex is a shining example of what happens when a community invests in education,” said Mike Peña, President of the CWI Foundation Board. “This facility will not only transform the lives of students but also strengthen the agricultural industry that is so vital to our region."
Every classroom and laboratory in the new building has been designed to maximize natural light and provide state-of-the-art learning environments. The layout encourages both indoor and outdoor engagement, giving students access to a mix of classroom instruction and practical, field-based training.
The complex also includes a student-designed arboretum, which has earned recognition as the first registered arboretum in the city of Nampa. This unique feature doubles as both an educational resource for students and a recreational amenity for the local community.
Classes in the new facility began in August 2025, with more than 20 courses offered this fall in areas such as horticulture, landscape design, floral science, and animal science. The facility is expected to support thousands of students in the coming years, equipping them with the hands-on skills needed to meet workforce demands in Idaho’s agricultural sector.
By aligning coursework with real-world applications, CWI is helping prepare graduates for careers in farming, greenhouse operations, veterinary support, agribusiness, and environmental resource management.
Agriculture is one of Idaho’s leading industries, and CWI leaders emphasize that the new complex was designed with the region’s future in mind. By offering modern labs, sustainable growing environments, and field-ready training spaces, the college is building an educational pipeline that benefits both students and local employers.
“This new complex allows us to bridge education with the workforce,” said college officials. “Students are not just learning concepts in a textbook—they are gaining real experience with the tools, processes, and innovations shaping today’s agricultural industry.”
The Agricultural Sciences Complex is part of a larger expansion strategy at CWI. It follows the opening of the Health and Science Building and precedes the CapEd Student Success Center, which is scheduled to open in fall 2026. Together, these projects underscore CWI’s commitment to creating accessible, industry-relevant education across multiple disciplines.
With its cutting-edge facilities, student-centered design, and community-driven vision, the Agricultural Sciences Complex is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of Idaho agriculture while offering students a world-class education close to home.
Originally reported by Mike Kennedy in American School & University.
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