August 24, 2022
Speaker Heastie Joins Assemblymember Barrett on Statewide Tour to Announce $1 Million Investment for Construction Technology Center at CGCC
Pictured with Speaker Carl Heastie at Columbia-Greene Community College (CGCC) is Assemblymember Didi Barrett, representatives from CGCC and community representatives.
Speaker Carl Heastie continued his annual statewide tour today, joining Assemblymember Didi Barrett at Columbia-Greene Community College (CGCC) to announce a $1 million investment to expand their Construction Technology Center.
“The Assembly Majority has always been committed to investing in higher education and ensuring New Yorkers have access to the training they need to succeed in the workforce,” said Speaker Heastie. “Today’s funding will help ensure Columbia-Greene Community College can meet the demand for this critical program and attract a wide variety of students. I am happy to be here in support of Assemblymember Barrett and to announce this exciting investment.”
“The Hudson Valley’s long history is reflected in centuries of striking buildings – brick or stone houses, iconic wooden barns, riverfront estates and more – and there is a continuing need to repair and restore these wonderful structures,” said Assemblymember Didi Barrett. “Training the next generation of construction tradespeople, particularly those skilled in woodworking, masonry, stone and plaster work and armed with the knowledge to run their own businesses, is a win-win because it trains and attracts a workforce for a need that is never ending – especially when it comes to repairing or repurposing older buildings. With this $1,000,000 grant, Columbia-Greene Community College can become the workforce training go-to for building trades, particularly in historic restoration and preservation.”
Speaker Heastie and Assemblymember Barrett joined CGCC President Carlee Drummer, Provost George Timmons and head of the construction program Andrew Soltano to announce the $1 million investment. The funding will be used to accommodate their current student enrollment and growing interest in the program, to expand the program to include historic trades and preservation and to attract non-traditional students to the program.l