Northern Marianas College boosts workforce development and economic recovery initiatives
June 24, 2025 | House, Northern Mariana Legislative Sessions, Northern Mariana Islands
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Northern Marianas College (NMC) is doubling down on its commitment to workforce development and economic recovery, as highlighted in a recent budget hearing. College leaders emphasized their strategic priorities aimed at improving lives through education and community investment.
NMC has evolved from a nursing school to a comprehensive institution focused on workforce development, economic diversification, and community support. The college's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has been pivotal in this mission, helping launch 39 new local businesses and supporting over 1,100 jobs since achieving official network status in 2022. Roman Tadella, the marketing manager for the SBDC, reported that the center has injected more than $1.6 million into the local economy and provided extensive training to nearly 700 clients.
Looking ahead, the SBDC is focusing on government contracting and procurement, an area with significant potential for local businesses. With 14 federal contracting training sessions already conducted, the center aims to ensure that local entrepreneurs are well-prepared to compete for federal dollars that can drive economic resilience.
In addition to the SBDC, NMC's Center for Training and Innovation (CTI) is making strides in workforce development. Program manager Geraldine Sasamoto highlighted the success of the governor's broadband boot camp, which trained 301 participants in fiber optics and career readiness, boasting a 90% completion rate. CTI is also expanding its offerings in healthcare, preparing nursing students and launching new certificate programs to address workforce shortages.
The college's initiatives are not just about numbers; they represent real lives transformed and families supported. As NMC continues to invest in its community, it reinforces the importance of education as a pathway to economic stability and growth. The college's leaders are optimistic that these efforts will yield significant returns for the islands, fostering a stronger, more resilient economy for the future.
NMC has evolved from a nursing school to a comprehensive institution focused on workforce development, economic diversification, and community support. The college's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has been pivotal in this mission, helping launch 39 new local businesses and supporting over 1,100 jobs since achieving official network status in 2022. Roman Tadella, the marketing manager for the SBDC, reported that the center has injected more than $1.6 million into the local economy and provided extensive training to nearly 700 clients.
Looking ahead, the SBDC is focusing on government contracting and procurement, an area with significant potential for local businesses. With 14 federal contracting training sessions already conducted, the center aims to ensure that local entrepreneurs are well-prepared to compete for federal dollars that can drive economic resilience.
In addition to the SBDC, NMC's Center for Training and Innovation (CTI) is making strides in workforce development. Program manager Geraldine Sasamoto highlighted the success of the governor's broadband boot camp, which trained 301 participants in fiber optics and career readiness, boasting a 90% completion rate. CTI is also expanding its offerings in healthcare, preparing nursing students and launching new certificate programs to address workforce shortages.
The college's initiatives are not just about numbers; they represent real lives transformed and families supported. As NMC continues to invest in its community, it reinforces the importance of education as a pathway to economic stability and growth. The college's leaders are optimistic that these efforts will yield significant returns for the islands, fostering a stronger, more resilient economy for the future.
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