Reviving Hope: How a Community College is Bringing Life to a Rural County
In a state full of rural, tucked away corners, Lincoln County stands out as one of Montana’s most remote and secluded areas. With a population of 20,000 people, this county is located in the far northwest corner of the state, bordered by Canada and Idaho’s panhandle. Its communities are scattered around the Kootenai National Forest, a vast expanse of 2.2 million acres of firs, pines, spruces, and towering mountains that define the rugged landscape of the area. Libby, the county seat with a population of 3,100 residents, is situated 69 miles from Eureka, the second-largest city in the county with 1,500 residents.
Lincoln County has a rich history shaped by industry and ecology, as well as a complex past marked by extraction, exploitation, and economic challenges. It is a place where everyone is connected in some way, where the past influences the present, and where the future is still being shaped by the legacy of the past.
The county’s economy has undergone significant changes over the years, particularly in the decline of the timber and vermiculite industries that once thrived in the area. The closure of local timber plants and the vermiculite mine in Libby in the 1990s and 2000s led to widespread unemployment and economic hardship for many residents. The tragic legacy of the vermiculite mine, where workers were exposed to deadly asbestos fibers, has left a lasting impact on the community, with hundreds of residents succumbing to asbestos-related diseases.
Despite these challenges, Lincoln County is moving forward, guided by a vision of a future that honors its history while diversifying its economy away from extractive industries. At the heart of this transformation is the local community college, which is playing a crucial role in helping residents adapt to a changing world, pursue careers close to home, and secure a brighter future for themselves and their community.
Megan Rayome, the Program Director of the Flathead Valley Community College’s Lincoln County Campus in Libby, is leading the charge in this revitalization effort. With a deep connection to the community and a commitment to its success, Rayome believes that Lincoln County has not been abandoned and is determined to help shape its future.
The story of Lincoln County’s community college dates back to 1979 when local stakeholders recognized the need for a college-level course in supervisory and management skills to meet the demands of local industries. This initiative led to the establishment of a supervisory management certificate program in Libby in partnership with Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) in Kalispell. The success of this program paved the way for the expansion of higher education opportunities in the county, culminating in the opening of a satellite campus in Libby in 1983.
Over the years, the campus has grown and evolved, serving a diverse student population ranging from teenagers to middle-aged adults seeking career changes and new opportunities. The college has been a lifeline for many residents facing layoffs, career transitions, and economic uncertainty, providing them with the skills and training needed to rebuild their lives and contribute to the local economy.
One of the key strengths of the community college is its responsiveness to industry needs and its focus on developing programs with local relevance. Following the closure of timber mills and the vermiculite mine, the college stepped up to retrain displaced workers and equip them with the skills needed for new careers. From welding programs to computer science degrees, the college has tailored its offerings to meet the demands of a changing economy and provide pathways to sustainable employment for its students.
The success stories coming out of the community college are a testament to its impact on the community. Students who once worked in logging or mining have found new careers in IT, welding, and other growing industries, thanks to the training and support they received at the college. The college’s emphasis on hands-on, practical learning has empowered students to thrive in a rapidly changing job market and contribute to the economic revitalization of Lincoln County.
Looking ahead, the college is focused on expanding its programs, investing in new technology, and cultivating local leadership to drive the community’s future growth. By forging partnerships with businesses, government agencies, and educational institutions, the college is laying the foundation for a resilient and prosperous community that can adapt to the challenges of the 21st century.
As Lincoln County continues its journey of renewal and transformation, the community college stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for residents seeking a brighter future close to home. With its commitment to excellence, innovation, and community engagement, the college is shaping the next chapter in the county’s history and empowering its residents to build a better tomorrow for themselves and their families.