Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges

ABOUT US The Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges — led by a nine-member governor-appointed board — advocates, coordinates and directs Washington state’s system of 34 public community and technical colleges. Each year, about 374,000 students train for the workforce, prepare to transfer to a university, gain basic math and English skills, or pursue continuing education. Our students, graduates and community partners increase the state’s quality of life and economic vitality as entrepreneurs, employees, consumers and taxpayers. OUR HISTORY Dedication to Excellent Education Washington state's system of interconnected community and technical colleges had humble beginnings. Early in the 20th century, junior colleges launched independently of one another. Over the century, community and technical colleges gained in popularity and recognition among the communities they served. More colleges opened their doors to serve Washingtonians. Today, the state's 34 community and technical colleges serve about 374,000 students every year. This number accounts for about 59 percent (includes Running Start students) of all students enrolled in Washington’s public higher education system, including Running Start students. Together, these colleges and their formers students add $20.5 billion to the state’s economy each year.