THE BLUEPRINT:
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SCCC opens groundbreaking for 38,000 sq. ft. automotive center in Brentwood.
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Empire Automotive Group partners with SCCC through naming agreement.
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Facility features advanced labs, hybrid/electric vehicle tech, and simulation areas.
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Program aims to strengthen Long Island’s skilled automotive workforce pipeline.
Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) held a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday for its 38,000-square-foot Automotive Technology Training Center on the Michael J. Grant Campus in Brentwood.
The college and the Suffolk Community College Foundation have entered into a naming agreement with Empire Automotive Group, a Long Island–based company recognized for its commitment to workforce development and community engagement. Financial terms of the naming agreement were not disclosed.
With the new facility, the college will expand its automotive program capacity with the goal of strengthening Long Island’s pipeline of skilled automotive technicians.
“The college and our foundation are delighted to partner with Empire Automotive Group in order to advance and enhance our automotive technology training program,” Edward Bonahue, SCCC president, said in a news release about the groundbreaking. “Today, we join with our student body and over 145,000 alumni to extend our gratitude and sincere thanks to Michael Brown, president and CEO of Empire Automotive Group, for this generous naming gift.”
Brown said in the news release that “the future of automotive technology depends on highly skilled technicians. We’re proud to partner with the college to help create a workforce that will drive Long Island’s automotive industry forward.”
The facility will feature advanced classrooms, training labs, workshops and simulation areas outfitted with the latest vehicles, diagnostic equipment, and hybrid and electric vehicle technology. Students will receive instruction from industry professionals and gain hands-on experience with modern automotive systems.
More than 100 elected officials, industry partners and community members attended the event, showing support for the program’s expansion and oppportunities for graduates.
SCCC will continue its existing automotive program on the Ammerman Campus in Selden, with both facilities providing training opportunities. The college’s programs are accredited by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation, preparing students for employment in dealerships, franchise shops and independent repair facilities.
Adina Genn
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