The public is invited to a dedication ceremony for the new Patricia and Alan Guerrieri Technology Center at Wor-Wic Community College on Thursday, April 20, at 2 p.m.
Local dignitaries are expected to join members of the board of trustees, state and county elected officials, students, alumni, employees and other friends of the college for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, refreshments and tours of the building.
The new building, located on the south side of the campus, is about 50,000 square feet, and is outfitted with industry-specific equipment technologies to prepare students for the workforce. It features welding, HVACR, metal fabrication and plumbing labs; a CDL simulation lab; and other hands-on instruction areas for electro-mechanical, construction, electrical and alternative energy programs. For the community, a makerspace multipurpose laboratory has tools and 3D printers open for public use.
The technology center lives up to its name, with high-tech equipment throughout. It features learning systems for robotics, geothermal electricity, wind turbine nacelles and solar panels; an augmented reality welding simulation lab in addition to safe, real-world welding booths; a Skill Boss Logistics supply chain automation training and assessment device; mechanical lathes and mills; laser systems and an engraver.
With 90% of Wor-Wic students staying and working in the area, the new building will fill high-tech learning requirements for local students, supporting the demand for skilled workers who can help build the community.
The $36 million building project was funded by the State of Maryland and Wicomico and Worcester counties, as well as the “Preparing for a Stronger Tomorrow” campaign by the Wor-Wic Foundation. To contribute to the campaign, which also supports building equipment, technology and student aid, visit the “Donate” link at the top right of the college website. An announcement on the campaign’s progress will be made at the dedication ceremony.
Whiting-Turner is the general contractor for the project. The building was designed by Becker Morgan Group of Salisbury. The new building has the same exterior yellow brick as other buildings on campus. It also has some unique design elements, showcasing the learning taking place within its walls by providing glass viewing panels into various labs. The building also houses a computer laboratory, classrooms, student study spaces, conference rooms, and offices to accommodate credit and non-credit employees to support these programs.
The public is welcome to attend on April 20 to celebrate the dedication and tour the new building. Anyone interested in attending should RSVP to bpowell@worwic.edu by April 6.
