Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services, last week hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil its newly designed atrium and student lounge.
The career training school, which moved to 2770 Red Lion Road in 2007 after five years on Bustleton Avenue followed by 28 years at 1330 Rhawn St., is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
“Here’s to another 50 years,” said Cynthia Figueroa, JEVS president and CEO.
The modernization project was funded by a $500,000 grant from the state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program.
The campus, which offers training in healthcare and skilled trades such as carpentry, electrical, HVAC and plumbing, now has upgraded security features and a newly designed open-air student lounge.
Specifically, the atrium has nicer tile, better lighting, a seating area, a refreshed staircase and new glass doors.
Formerly known as Orleans Technical Institute, the college seeks to help students earn industry-recognized credentials and secure employment in high-demand fields.
Figueroa said the facility has a campus vibe.
“You feel like you’re walking into a college. It gives students a lot of pride,” she said.
Among those in attendance at the Dec. 11 event were Nancy Walker, secretary of the state Department of Labor and Industry; state Rep. Martina White (R-170th dist.); Phil Rinaldi, of Intech Construction; Ramune Bartuskaite, of Fifteen Architecture + Design; Jay Spector, the retired former longtime JEVS president and CEO; and Jeffrey Orleans, whose family’s funding enabled the nonprofit to open 50 years ago.
White said workforce development and career and technical education lead to family-sustaining jobs, and she’s happy it’s taking place “right here in Northeast Philadelphia.”
Walker, the Labor and Industry secretary, was impressed with the atrium and student lounge.
“It’s always important for students to have a sense of belonging and a place to network,” she said.
Walker said the skilled trades and healthcare training at Orleans will help fill a need in Pennsylvania.
“Those are two really big areas in the workforce that employers are always looking for,” she said. ••
