Waylon Winishut joined WSCAT in 2021 to save for an IDA to help cover his costs of education. After saving for a couple of years, he was able to use his funds to help cover his costs of tuition and books at Central Oregon Community  College (COCC). After completing this IDA, he was able to open a second one to help cover the majority of his education costs, including rent, while at school. He is currently a college student seeking a bachelor's degree through OSU Cascades in art, media, and technology.  

In 2024, Waylon was also able to enroll in WSCAT's Grow with Google Certificate program and completed a certificate in Digital Marketing and E-commerce. In the course, he also learned how to write a better resume and develop a portfolio.  

After completing the course, he and his wife taught a graphic design course for WSCAT youth in 2024, where he was able to continue developing his skills. The two of them designed the course, including developing the slides and content. Participants were assigned a few projects and he was happy to see their success.  

During the course, he kept a running itinerary and product list and he has been able to use those skills in a variety of settings. He also learned time management and organization skills. He believes these skills have helped him network and in school.  

Waylon is finding other ways to use the skills he developed in college and at WSCAT by interning at KWSO. He helps with their graphic design and interviews. He stated "I have worked with community members in coordinating their PSAs and right now I'm going through archival broadcasts that they have done and organizing them."

When asked about what he is interested in, Waylon said he wants to introduce some new tech-driven ventures to the reservation in the future. He stated "I have a handful of projects in mind for once I do have my degree to bring back to the tribes and find funding for." 

Waylon plans on applying for his masters with the University of Oregon in Immersive Communications after he graduates in 2026. He is developing social media content as well. He has started his own business and is continuing to develop skills related to his degree programs.