This content was published: November 16, 2018. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici touts OMIC, PCC in nation’s capitol
Photos and story by Kate Chester
U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici gave kudos to Portland Community College and its role with the Oregon Manufacturing Innovation Center as part of her House Floor address on Nov. 15, in celebration of National Apprenticeship Week.
Based in Scappoose, OMIC represents a collaboration of industry, higher education and government seeking to combine applied research and development and workforce training, in the metals manufacturing industry. The effort will serve advanced manufacturers in the region while giving area residents access to living-wage careers in a growing industry sector.
As part of the collaborative, PCC will build a training center to house programs like computer numerically controlled operation, machining, welding, and mechatronics. Its programs will be based on an apprenticeship model, giving students work-based learning experience as they complete certificates or associate degrees, then move directly into advanced manufacturing jobs or pursue advanced degrees.
“OMIC will be transformational for Columbia County and northwest Oregon, and I am excited to see it continue to grow and move forward,” said Bonamici, on a recent visit to OMIC. The project resides in Columbia County, part of Bonamici’s congressional district.
“Advanced manufacturing has a bright future in Oregon,” she said.