WVC announces groundbreaking for new Center for Technical Education and Innovation

WENATCHEE — Wenatchee Valley College will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Center for Technical Education and Innovation (CTEI) building. The event is open to the public and will take place on Thursday, June 12 at 3 p.m. on the Van Tassell Center patio.

The ceremony will feature presentations from several speakers:

• WVC President Dr. Faimous Harrison
• Ruby Gaston, Central Washington Representative from Congresswoman Kim Schrier's office
• Agriculture faculty and Hispanic Orchard Employee Education Program (HOEEP) co-director Francisco Sarmiento-Torres
• Ariel Torres, a student representative from the Environmental Systems and Refrigeration Technology program.

Scheduled for completion by Fall 2027, the 70,000 square foot, $50 million CTEI facility will provide hands-on learning for skilled trades programs. These programs include agriculture, automotive technology, computer technology, electronics and aerospace electronics, environmental systems and refrigeration technology, industrial technology and more, featuring specialty labs and training centers.

"As President of Wenatchee Valley College, I am excited to invite our community to join us for the groundbreaking of our new Center for Technical Education and Innovation," Dr. Harrison said in a statement. "This center will advance the college’s role in preparing students and professionals to make long-lasting contributions to the economic growth and vibrancy of our region in North Central Washington. We look forward to sharing this moment with our students, faculty, staff, and friends of WVC."

WVC's skilled trades programs prepare students for careers requiring skilled labor and specialized training. The CTEI building will further the college's mission of providing innovative educational opportunities to build a thriving community in North Central Washington.

Funding for the CTEI building comes from the State of Washington's 2023-25 capital budget allocation, separate from the college's operating budget.

The groundbreaking event will include a ceremonial turning of the dirt, and refreshments will be served. Free parking is available in both the Smith Gym and Student Recreation Center parking lots along Fifth Street.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media