THE DALLES — U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley announced Dec. 11 the selection of Columbia Gorge Community College as a new industrial training and assessment center, which includes a $1.99 million federal investment to help the school develop a dedicated 3D printing training space, curriculum, and manufacturer assistance program. This is part of a project to create clean energy industry opportunities for Oregonians and small businesses.
“This new investment and designation for Columbia Gorge Community College helps to solve both challenges by developing a highly skilled clean-energy workforce while also opening up rewarding career possibilities for young Oregonians” Wyden said.
This newly announced industrial training and assessment center will serve as the Northern Oregon hub for hands-on learning opportunities for local students, union apprentices, and current manufacturing workers, all while identifying ways for small and medium-sized manufacturers to reduce their energy bills, according to a press release. “By creating a cutting-edge 3D printing training and workforce development hub, Columbia Gorge Community College is equipping students with the expertise and the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry,” said Merkley.
“We appreciate the Department of Energy and its Office of Manufacturing and Supply Chains for recognizing the potential value and impact of the Columbia Gorge Regional Additive Manufacturing program to the national economic development initiative. Finally, we look forward to collaborating with our many industry, workforce, and K12 partners to empower learners with portable knowledge, skills, and competencies that will transform their lives, our community, and our region,” said Jarett Gilbert, vice president of instructional services at the college.
This investment from the U.S. Department of Energy is part of President Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda to support small businesses and expand access to high-quality jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, said a press release.
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