The Biddeford Regional Center of Technology has opened a $7 million addition designed to provide students with a broader array of career pathways, including a new program in sports medicine — the first of its kind in the state, according to a news release.
The new programs also include education in culinary arts, hospitality, travel, tourism and athletic training.
Tuesday’s ribbon-cutting for the expansion drew nearly 100 industry partners, educators and community leaders. The two-story addition to the high school was built by Great Falls Construction with design by Mobile Studio Design.
The $7 million project was funded by the Maine Department of Education as an investment in career and technical education in Biddeford and surrounding communities.
Current programs for work such as emergency medical technology and plumbing will also benefit from expanded space and resources, according to the center.
The center now serves 475 students from eight communities in grades 9-12 with hands-on learning and opportunities for industry certifications and dual enrollment.
“This expansion is a major win for Biddeford and surrounding communities,” said Ryan Fecteau, former speaker of the Maine House of Representatives and an advocate for CTE programs. “By investing in programs that provide practical, skills-based education, we are not only creating opportunities for students but also strengthening Maine’s workforce.”
Expanded programs will offer students certifications such as ServSafe, OSHA 10, NCCER plumbing certifications, EMT basic licensure, CPR and first aid and athletic training. The opportunities allow students to graduate with industry-recognized credentials, college credits and hands-on skills designed to prepare them for careers or further education.
“This new wing isn’t just about creating space; it’s about creating opportunity,” said Paulette Bonneau, director of the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. “It’s about giving students the tools, resources, and experiences they need to build their futures.”
The project was one of four Career and Technical Education schools in Maine that received $15 million in grant funding for program, equipment and facility upgrades, through the Maine Jobs & Recovery Program. The other schools are in Norway, Lincoln and Mexico.
