Grays Harbor College Reopens Community Classes in Ilwaco and Astoria

The college's Columbia Education Center is reviving its diverse range of non-credit courses for residents of Washington and Oregon.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:54pm

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Grays Harbor College's Columbia Education Center in Ilwaco, Washington, is reopening its doors after a pandemic-induced pause, signaling a broader trend of the revitalization of community-based learning. The center is once again offering a diverse range of non-credit courses, catering to residents of Washington and Oregon and addressing the growing demand for accessible lifelong learning opportunities.

Why it matters

The reopening of the Columbia Education Center directly addresses the need for educational resources and workforce development in rural communities, which often face limited access to such services. By bringing learning closer to residents, the center reduces barriers to participation and aligns with a national focus on addressing educational inequities.

The details

The course offerings at the Columbia Education Center demonstrate a diverse demand, ranging from practical certifications like Flagger Certification to creative workshops and language classes. This blend of practical skills and personal enrichment caters to both workforce needs and individual growth. The emphasis on skills-based education reflects a broader shift in the education landscape, with employers increasingly prioritizing skills over traditional degrees.

  • The Columbia Education Center is reopening its doors in Spring 2026.
  • The center had previously paused operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The players

Grays Harbor College

A community college serving the Grays Harbor region of Washington state, including the Ilwaco area.

Amy Hitchcock

The program manager at the Columbia Education Center, who emphasized the center's focus on building programming around community needs.

Carli Schiffner

The president of Grays Harbor College, who highlighted the college's efforts to restore educational services to rural communities.

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What they’re saying

“We're intentionally building our programming around what the community is asking for.”

— Amy Hitchcock, Program Manager, Columbia Education Center

“This is a true group effort, involving our employees, our college foundation, and community members.”

— Carli Schiffner, President, Grays Harbor College

What’s next

The Columbia Education Center is encouraging community members to visit ghc.edu/ce or call (360) 538-2539 to learn more about the available courses and register.

The takeaway

The revitalization of the Columbia Education Center in Ilwaco highlights the crucial role that community-based learning institutions play in providing accessible education and fostering community connections, particularly in rural areas. By offering a diverse range of practical and enrichment-focused courses, the center is empowering residents to acquire new skills, explore interests, and enhance their career prospects.