YCCC gets thumbs up from Collins on business partnerships

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, commended York County Community College on its commitment to career-focused education during a keynote address at the college’s Eggs & Issues Breakfast on Friday.

Collins said that the 3,000-student college in Wells has been a leader in cultivating partnerships with local employers, which benefits businesses as well as Mainers seeking to find employment or develop their skills, according to a news release from Collins’ office.

“YCCC’s wide range of programs and their success in helping students achieve their goals are the result of the partnership forged between this school and area employers,” she said.

She cited the fact that 14 Pratt & Whitney employees completed the school’s apprenticeship program, graduating from YCCC in May.

“As Pratt & Whitney expands its North Berwick production, this collaboration is critical in helping to develop the skilled workforce this valued Maine employer needs to advance the aviation industry and to enhance our national security, while providing great jobs right here in our state,” Collins said.

Collins earlier this year introduced the American Apprenticeship Act with Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., which would provide funding to states for tuition assistance programs for pre-apprenticeship and registered apprenticeship programs.

“From accounting to veterinary technology, with culinary arts, digital media, precision machining and so much more in between, YCCC’s diploma and certificate programs advance economic growth and workforce development,” Collins said at the breakfast. “The people of Maine are proud of our community college system, and the reason is clear: students of all ages and backgrounds are finding affordable tuition and the skills they need to succeed.”