MDC To Establish Construction Trade Institute At North Campus
Miami Dade College is creating a Construction Trade Institute to expand its certification offerings in the high-demand construction industry.
The two-floor, 3,100 square foot facility that will be located next to the 7000 building at North Campus will feature indoor and outdoor labs to support certification programs in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical systems, welding, plumbing and solar panel installation.
Construction is expected to be completed by early 2025.
The project is being accomplished using two grants totaling $3.7 million: one for $1.9 million from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and another for $1.8 million from the State of Florida.
Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez visited North Campus on Sept. 22 to announce the grant from the State of Florida.
“This grant plays a crucial role in addressing workforce needs, promoting economic development and supporting ongoing training, ensuring that workers can adapt to changing industry standards and stay competitive in their careers,” said Sunyen Lee, chairperson of the School of Continuing Education & Professional Development at North and Hialeah campuses.
The most recent grant was awarded through Governor Ron De Santis’ Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, an initiative that provides funding for public infrastructure and workforce training throughout the state.
To be considered, the Continuing Education Department collaborated with the Resource Development Department to create a proposal that included a budget, how the grant would be used and programs that met the employment demands of the construction trade industry in Miami-Dade County.
These programs will allow students to “fill the talent gap in the construction industry in South Florida,” said North Campus President Fermin Vazquez.
The CTI will be an extension of MDC Builds, an initiative launched by Continuing Education for students to acquire preparation to enter the construction industry through technical courses.
Miami Dade College has already introduced construction-related courses, such as the low voltage technician program and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration program at Homestead Campus, a property management certificate at Wolfson Campus and a general contractor license preparation course at North Campus.
Students can apply for the CTI program through the Miami Dade College website or by calling Continuing Education at (305) 237-1019.
Click here to subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter, The Hammerhead. For news tips, contact us at mdc.thereporter@gmail.com.
