Medford Voke Awarded $287K Skills Capital Grant

MEDFORD, Ma — The Medford Vocational Technical High School was one of 54 educational institutions selected to receive a Massachusetts Skills Capital Grant. The school was awarded $287,055 out of $14.6 million awarded to schools to update equipment and expand student enrollment in programs that provide career education.

MVTHS plans to develop a new Engineering Technology Training Center in the renovated 5,000-square-foot former auto body shop. It will include a new software and electronics lab space, a 2,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing and automation floor shop and separate classroom space.

The center will house the Robotics and Engineering Program, targeting industries such as advanced manufacturing, software development and supply chain automation. The expanded space will allow the program to provide vocational training for more students each year, as well as adults seeking training in advanced manufacturing.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Robotics and Engineering Instructors, Mr. Sam Christy and Mr. Noah Lewkowitz who were instrumental in completing the grant process," Superintendent Marice Edouard-Vincent said in a statement. "Their passion for the program and the desire to build a foundation for future students is truly remarkable. In addition, I would like to thank Medford’s State Legislative Delegation: Senator Patricia Jehlen and State Representatives Paul Donato, Christine Barber and Sean Garballey for their dedicated support of the Medford Public Schools."

In 2017, MTVHS was awarded $495,000 from this grant program, which was used to fund the renovation and new construction of the Culinary Arts Program. The Skills Capital Grants were designed to help preserve the state's talent pipeline by funding expanded enrollment and equipment upgrades at educational institutions. Institutions such as MVTHS provide more students with in-demand skills sought by employers.

The competitive grants are awarded to educational institutions that demonstrate partnerships with local businesses, as well as align curriculum and credentials with industry demand to maximize hiring opportunities in each region of the state.

"MVTHS has long-standing partnerships in the community and will draw upon these partnerships as we move toward the future," Principal-Director Chad Fallon said in a statement. "I'm so proud of our students and faculty that help to build and nurture these partnerships."