TRI-CITIES, Wash. – A significant renovation at Tri-Tech Skills Center is underway, focusing on expanding educational opportunities for students. The $45.5 million project covers 66,000 square feet of the center’s core facility.
Director Paul Randall noted that this is the first major renovation since the center opened in 1981.
“We’re updating all of our lab spaces for welding, automotive, diesel nursing, digital arts and filmmaking, dental assisting. So those will all be new facility, instructional space and shop spaces,” said Randall.
As a regional cooperative technical center, Tri-Tech serves eight school districts across the Tri-Cities area. Students build skills in trades, arts or healthcare part-time while also attending their high schools. Randall explained that they worked with lawmakers for a decade to secure funding for the renovation.
“This project is funded through the state legislature. It’s a state capital project. It is not funded by any local bond or levy dollars. It’s all from the state,” he said.
The renovation is expected to be completed this fall, providing students with enhanced facilities to improve their skills.
“If you’re ready for what we offer, there’s no better deal in town,” said Randall.
