Coffeyville, KS — Coffeyville Community College (CCC) celebrated the official launch of its new Powersports
Technology Program with a ribbon-cutting and open house at the Hatfield Building on Wednesday, December 10th. The event marked a significant expansion of career and technical education offerings at the CCC Columbus Technical Campus.
Community members, industry partners, educators, and students gathered at the facility to tour the space, meet program leadership, and learn more about the new program. First District Representative Dale Helwig of Columbus, a 1993 graduate of Coffeyville Community College, was also in attendance, demonstrating his support for workforce development and technical education in Southeast Kansas.
CCC President Dr. Marlon Thornburg addressed attendees, noting the continued growth of the powersports industry and the importance of providing relevant, hands-on training opportunities for students in the region. He introduced Powersports Technology Instructor Mike Mathes, who brings extensive industry experience as a recognized Harley-Davidson Technician Trainer with a background in dealership service and corporate-level training.
During the open house, Mathes guided guests through the shop space, highlighting equipment and explaining how students will gain real-world experience working on powersports and small-engine technology. The program is housed in a modern facility designed to mirror professional repair environments.
“We are thrilled to officially launch this program in Columbus,” said Kari Soper, Columbus Campus Director. “The turnout and support we saw at the ribbon-cutting reinforces how important this program is to our community and our region.”
The Hatfield Building, located at 308 SE Ave., is leased by CCC from owner Jay Hatfield and now serves as the home of the Powersports Technology Program. Hatfield shared with attendees that the building has deep roots in his own business history and expressed enthusiasm for its new purpose in supporting education and workforce training.
The Powersports Technology Program is available to students from nine regional high schools, including Baxter, Chetopa, Columbus, Galena, Girard, Labette County, Oswego, Riverton, and Southeast. Classes will operate part-time in Columbus during the mornings and at Labette County High School in Altamont during the afternoons, expanding access for both high school and post-secondary students.
The successful ribbon-cutting reflects CCC’s continued commitment to meeting regional workforce needs through strong partnerships with industry and education leaders while creating new pathways to high-demand careers.
Learn More
For details about the Powersports Technology Program or enrollment information, visit:
https://www.coffeyville.edu/columbus-technical-campus/powersports-techology
Or contact:
Rebeccah Stone – 620-252-7302 | [email protected]