Two-day summit at the College of Southern Idaho unites regional leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators around the theme Tech Powered. Community Led. — marking the Idaho Technology Council's first major event in South Central Idaho.

Introducing: Brett Madron, Sr Director of Workforce Development, CSI Describe the business/organization you work for: College of Southern Idaho Workforce Development and Training helps people and businesses build real-world skills that lead to real opportunities. As part of the College of Southern Idaho, the team works closely with employers to offer hands-on training, customized programs, and apprenticeships across areas like manufacturing, healthcare, trades, safety, technology, and professional development. Whether you’re an individual looking to grow your career or a company building your workforce, CSI offers practical, local training designed to meet today’s workforce needs right here in the Magic Valley. What inspired you to start your own business, or why did you decide to work for this specific organization? Joining the CSI Workforce Development and Training department was a meaningful homecoming. My wife and I were both born and raised in Twin Falls, and as a graduate of both the College of Southern Idaho and the University of Idaho, returning to serve this community was always a goal of mine. With both of our families here, the timing was finally right to move home. After spending a brief period working remotely as a data analyst and strategic partner for Idaho Forest Group, the opportunity to lead CSI’s Workforce Development Department opened, and I jumped on board. This role allows me to apply my education and experience in engineering and manufacturing to help other companies grow and be successful. What sets this business apart from others in the industry? What sets CSI Workforce Development and Training apart is its deep connection to industry and real-world operations. My background in local food processing, lumber production, and semiconductor manufacturing brings a practical, firsthand perspective to workforce training. Having worked inside these environments—including advanced manufacturing and high-tech operations—I understand the challenges companies face as they modernize and adopt new technologies. That experience allows CSI to serve as more than a training provider; we act as a strategic partner, helping local employers upskill their workforce in ways that are practical, relevant, and aligned with where their industries are headed. What challenges have you faced as a business owner or employee, and how did you overcome them? The challenges I’ve experienced leading the Workforce Development Department at CSI have been minimal, largely because I inherited a strong team with a clear, well-defined mission. As a lifelong learner and non-traditional student, I deeply value a broad and applied education, and that perspective shapes how I approach this work. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside exceptional tradespeople, engineers, and organizational leaders, learning something valuable from each of them. It’s especially rewarding to now help others recognize the importance of lifelong learning across all disciplines and to see how continued education can open new doors for individuals and strengthen the workforce as a whole. What advice would you give to someone looking to join your industry? For anyone considering a career in higher education or workforce development, my advice is to focus on the impact. The most meaningful rewards come from seeing people grow—watching an apprentice walk across the stage to cheers and tears, or seeing someone return to their job with new skills, greater confidence, and access to higher responsibility and pay. Helping individuals advance in their careers and lives is incredibly fulfilling, and it’s a constant reminder that this work truly matters. About the Idaho Technology Council The Idaho Technology Council (ITC) is a member-based organization that champions innovation and collaboration to grow Idaho’s economy through technology. Representing a dynamic and growing community of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers, ITC connects vision with action to position Idaho as a hub for innovation and opportunity. Learn more at www.idahotechcouncil.org . Connect with Brett on LinkedIn HERE Check out College of Southern Idaho HERE