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Chesapeake College outlines expanded skilled‑trades training for the region
Summary
Chesapeake College presenters described new and expanded skilled‑trades offerings — including a mobile welding lab, marine technician certifications, robotics training and Year‑2 entry pathways for electrical and HVAC — aimed at regional workforce development.
Chesapeake College on Feb. 3 presented a skilled‑trades update to the Dorchester County Council, outlining program expansions intended to strengthen the local workforce pipeline.
College President Clifford Coppersmith, Executive Director Amber McGinnis and Skilled Trades Director Chuck Davis told the Council the college is expanding hands‑on offerings, including a mobile welding lab, an outboard marine lab, advanced manufacturing and robotics training, and a construction trades lab at the Wye Mills campus. The presentation also described continuing‑education pathways that allow Electrical and HVAC program completers at Dorchester College Technical Center (DCTC) to enter Chesapeake College starting in Year 2.
The presenters said Chesapeake College offers regionally distinctive certifications, including ABYC Marine Technician certification and Yamaha outboard certifications at multiple levels, which they said are not available at closer institutions. The college representatives framed the expansion as a way to meet employer demand for skilled trades and to provide local opportunities for credentialed employment.
Council members received the presentation; no Council action was required. The college indicated it will continue outreach and partnership efforts with local employers and education partners to implement the programs described.
