Greenway Institute Works to Make Higher Education More Affordable in Montpelier

The Greenway Institute in Montpelier is working to reshape higher education by combining a college degree with hands-on, real-world experiences, according to reporting from WCAX News 3.

Co-founders Troy McBride and Mark Somerville launched the initiative to make schooling more affordable and directly connected to practical careers. Traditional universities often burden students with high tuition costs and theoretical coursework that leaves them unprepared for modern workplaces. By rethinking the structure of higher education, the Greenway Institute aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and actual industry demands.

Real-World Experience and Affordability

According to WCAX News 3, the institution focuses heavily on reducing financial barriers while immersing students in practical projects. Affordability remains a central pillar of the model, addressing mounting concerns over student debt. Instead of sitting through traditional lectures for four years, students engage directly with real-world problems and hands-on learning environments.

This experiential approach allows participants to build tangible portfolios and professional networks before graduation. Industry partners collaborate with the institute to ensure that the curriculum matches current workforce needs.

Next Steps for the Montpelier Institute

As the Greenway Institute continues to develop its programs in Montpelier, leadership is refining its curriculum to scale these experiential learning models. Co-founders Troy McBride and Mark Somerville are working to expand access for incoming students seeking alternative paths to traditional four-year degrees. Local and regional interest in alternative higher education models has grown as families look for cost-effective ways to secure stable employment.