The cannabis industry in Washington has reached a substantial value of $1.1 billion, prompting the establishment of various educational programs aimed at preparing individuals for careers in this expanding market. Notably, Gonzaga University has teamed up with Green Flower to offer certificate programs focusing on Cannabis Health Care and Medicine, as well as Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management. These initiatives, launched in 2023, are designed to attract both new learners and those looking to pivot from other careers into cannabis.
Rachelle Strawther, the founding director of Gonzaga’s Center for Lifelong Learning, noted that while some participants are traditional college students, a significant number are adult learners seeking to transition into the cannabis sector. Other educational institutions, including Seattle Central College, Tacoma Community College, and the Washington State Department of Health, have also introduced similar programs covering areas from cultivation techniques to medical consulting.
Washington legalized recreational marijuana in 2012, becoming one of the first states to do so alongside Colorado. Max Simon, CEO of Green Flower, emphasized the growing opportunities in this field, stating that they collaborate with over 60 colleges and universities nationwide to support cannabis education.
Shilo Kumpf, who operates cannabis retail stores in Pasco and Spokane under Lucky Leaf Co., recently completed Gonzaga’s Cannabis Health Care and Medicine course. Her motivation stemmed from a desire to assist family members and customers affected by cancer, aiming to learn how cannabis could alleviate symptoms such as nausea from chemotherapy. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology supports the use of cannabis for this purpose, highlighting its medicinal applications across various conditions.
Kumpf remarked on the evolving product landscape since she opened her first store in 2015. She noted the shift from basic edible options to more sophisticated products like cannabis-infused sorbet ice creams. Additionally, consumer preferences have shifted towards concentrated forms of cannabis, such as dabs and rosin, which deliver higher THC levels—up to 80% compared to the 30-40% found in traditional flower.
In April 2023, cannabis sales in Washington totaled approximately $93 million, according to data from Headset, a cannabis analytics firm. Simon mentioned that their medical-focused cannabis courses attract a diverse range of healthcare professionals, including doctors and alternative health practitioners. Many of these individuals seek credible information on cannabis due to patient inquiries that often go unanswered in traditional medical education.
Tacoma Community College will launch its cannabis certificate program on May 7, while Seattle Central College and the Washington State Department of Health offer flexible online courses that can be accessed at any time. Gonzaga’s online cannabis classes are open for registration until May 11. These programs reflect the industry’s rapid evolution and the increasing demand for knowledgeable professionals in the cannabis sector.
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