QuickTake:
The grant will allow LCC to update equipment in its new Industry and Trades Education Center.
Lane Community College (LCC) has recently secured a substantial $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. This funding is earmarked for purchasing new equipment for the college’s Industry and Trades Education Center, a vital hub for workforce development and advanced technology training.
This announcement was made public on February 11 by U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley. They highlighted that this grant is part of a broader initiative, with over $92 million allocated for various community projects across Oregon. This influx of federal funds aims to enhance local educational institutions and bolster the state’s workforce readiness.
Grant Matthews, who serves as LCC’s associate vice president for career and technical education and workforce development, emphasized that the college’s initiative is focused on equipping students with skills to tackle cybersecurity and programming challenges related to advanced technologies. LCC’s commitment to adapting to the rapidly changing landscape of industry demands has fueled its desire to apply for this grant.
One area of investment Matthews pointed out is manufacturing-related cybersecurity equipment. This reflects a forward-thinking approach, recognizing the long-term relevance of cybersecurity in various sectors. The flexibility granted by the funding also allows LCC officials to evaluate the current and evolving needs of the industry before committing to specific purchases.
Matthews noted, “We look at general skills as well as specific equipment-based skills to try to ensure what we ask for has longevity.” In an era where technology evolves swiftly, this strategic mindset is crucial for developing curricula that meet both immediate and future needs.
Moreover, the goal is to ensure that the equipment available for training closely resembles what is utilized in local industries, or at least has a broad enough application that the skills acquired will be easily transferable across different job roles. This approach not only enhances immediate employability but also prepares students for long careers in diverse fields.
In a press release, LCC President Stephanie Bulger articulated the importance of this funding by stating that it will facilitate the development of innovative curricula and the acquisition of vital equipment necessary for training the next generation of skilled workers in advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity.
The Industry and Trades Education Center represents a significant investment in the future of workforce development at LCC. Opened for classes in January 2025, the facility involved a construction cost of $39 million, with a total project investment reaching $49.5 million, largely funded through a 2020 voter-approved bond measure.
This comprehensive investment underscores Lane Community College’s commitment to not only responding to current industry needs but also anticipating future trends in technology and workforce demands. As LCC enhances its facilities and equipment, it lays a stronger foundation for students entering a competitive job market, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the modern economy.
