The center, which is under construction, is expected to be completed before fall term begins in September. The center is part of a $15.7 million Phase II project to increase capacity, especially for workforce training, at the community college.

Overall capital campaign funds will pay for SMART Technology TVs, synchronous equipment, conference room technology, computers, computer laboratory furnishings, mobile teaching stations, as well as equipment for the Klamath Center for Education and Training (K-CET).

The center will house new and current technical programs, and is expected to serve up to 500 students each year. The center is also expected to be a “hub” for “high-wage, high-demand” technical programs directly related to workforce needs in the Klamath Basin and surrounding area.

Lake County’s contribution will fund two synchronous classrooms, increasing the capabilities for such technologies by 30 percent.

“In today’s quickly evolving economy, it is imperative that our citizens have access to certificate and training programs, as well as degree programs,” said Dan Shoun, Lake County commissioner, in a news release. “This funding will allow KCC to increase offerings and capacity, which through technology can reach all Lake County citizens.”

Klamath County Commissioner Kelley Minty Morris said, “I’m pleased to support efforts to improve our workforce by supporting higher education in Klamath County. We all know having good jobs is key to the economic recovery of Klamath County, and to a attract employers, we need a qualified workforce.

“I’m excited by KCC’s efforts, and its leadership and supporters, to increase the number of qualified employees in our basin,” she said.

Sky Lakes Medical Center’s donated funds will sponsor a Health Information Management classroom at the center.

“Sky Lakes is a recognized leader in healthcare and strives to be an example of good corporate citizenship,” said Paul Stewart, chief executive officer of Sky Lakes in a news release.

“We take pride in also being a reliable community partner in local economic development activities. Sponsoring a health information classroom in the new Work Skills Technology Center at KCC combines those ideas and further demonstrates our steadfast optimism and commitment to the prosperous future of the college and of Klamath Falls — the place we call home.”

KCC President Roberto Gutierrez said that the contributions provided by community organizations are a legacy of support for educational innovation in Klamath and Lake counties.

“These campaign contributions illustrate the value our community leaders place on higher education and creating a well-trained workforce, and we are thankful for the partnerships the counties have forged through the campaign,” Gutierrez said.

Julie Murray-Jensen, vice president of enrollment and external affairs at KCC, echoed Gutierrez sentiments.

“KCC is an institution focused on improving our communities and our work couldn’t be completed without the support of community partners, such as the county commissioners,” Murray-Jensen said in a news release. “This is a truly transformational project for our community, and we are grateful for the endorsements.”

To read this article and others on the Herald and News website, please refer to the link below:

KCC Capital Campaign Nears its Goal (Herald and News)