Higher education bond would fund programs at URI, RIC and CCRI
The University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College and the Community College of Rhode Island are partnering on efforts related to Question 1, a higher education bond measure on the November ballot. The measure would provide funding for training and workforce development in healthcare, the skilled trades, and other high-demand fields.
A new Integrated Health Building at URI will expand modern
health education and clinical training, strengthening the pipeline of
professionals who care for Rhode Islanders and their families. Healthcare
careers are among the fastest-growing occupations, as well as the state’s
largest employment sectors.
A recent
poll showed that 49% of respondents believe that Rhode Island isn’t
spending enough money on improving and protecting healthcare in the state, with
62% indicating that healthcare should be a top priority for elected leaders.
“URI is proud to play a critical role in educating and preparing the healthcare professionals who serve Rhode Islanders in hospitals, pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and care settings across the state,” said URI President Marc B. Parlange. “Question 1 will help expand the pipeline of highly trained healthcare professionals while supporting URI’s ongoing commitment to advancing the health and wellness of Rhode Islanders. Together, these efforts strengthen our healthcare workforce and help build a healthier, more prosperous future for people and communities across our state.”
CCRI’s
Workforce Innovation Center will be a 44,000-square-foot training facility
on the Warwick campus and a central hub for workforce education and training in
Rhode Island. More than half of the facility will be dedicated to hands-on
training, with industry-standard labs, simulation spaces and flexible
classrooms that can adapt as workforce needs change. The center will prepare
students and workers for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing, the
construction trades, HVAC, welding, maritime, information technology,
healthcare, clean energy and life sciences. Designed with input from employers,
labor organizations and economic development partners, it will offer stackable
credentials and short-term, career-focused pathways, plus internships,
apprenticeships and customized training built with employers.
“Rhode Islanders come to CCRI to build a better future for
themselves and their families,” said CCRI President Rosemary A. Costigan. “Our
state is facing a shortage of skilled workers in the trades, advanced
manufacturing and other technologies; CCRI’s Workforce Innovation Center will
train Rhode Islanders for the jobs of today and tomorrow. Question 1 will
strengthen Rhode Island’s workforce and our economy.”
Adams Library at RIC will be modernized to focus on student
success and career readiness with investments made possible by the bond. The
Student Success and Career Readiness Center will offer academic advising,
professional resources, employment opportunities, and real-world experiences to
propel students toward high-paying careers. With more than half of RIC students
being the first in their families to attend college, and more than 70% of RIC
graduates living and working in Rhode Island after graduation, the center will
improve student outcomes, increase retention and completion rates, and
accelerate pathways to employment—all of which will support the state’s economy
and workforce goals.
“If we want Rhode Island to have the workforce it needs in
the years ahead, we have to invest in the students who will become that
workforce,” said RIC President Jack R. Warner. “The career readiness center is
an investment in their success today and in Rhode Island’s prosperity
tomorrow.”
Early voting in Rhode Island begins Oct. 14, with in-person
voting on Election Day on Nov. 3. For more information visit Yeson1RI.com.
