Tec Centro Berks Celebrates Major Expansion With Ribbon Cutting and Dedication Ceremony

From Tec Centro Berks

Tec Centro Berks and the Tec Centro Workforce Network marked a major milestone on Monday, April 28, with a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony unveiling its newly renovated training spaces. This expansion significantly enhances the center’s ability to empower residents of Berks County through bilingual workforce education and hands-on skills training.

The event celebrated the transformation of over 7,100 square feet on the center’s lower level and first-floor auditorium into state-of-the-art classrooms, hands-on labs, and a student lounge. New features include a fully equipped commercial kitchen, plumbing and pre-apprenticeship labs, and modernized administrative areas, which are resources that will support hundreds of students each year in acquiring the skills necessary for in-demand, family-sustaining careers.

“This investment is about much more than bricks and mortar,” said Carlos Graupera, CEO of Tec Centro Workforce Network. “It represents a commitment to the economic future of Berks County. When we provide individuals with the tools and training they need to succeed, we strengthen families, employers, and the entire community.”

The ceremony included remarks from elected officials, including State Senators Judy Schwank, Scott Martin, State Representative Manny Guzman, and State Representative Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, as well as community leaders and Tec Centro students. The center also honored John Weidenhammer and Karen Rightmire, two visionary philanthropists whose early support helped turn Tec Centro Berks from concept to reality.

“This expansion is a testament to what’s possible when community, philanthropy, and purpose come together,” said Violet Emory, Executive Director of Tec Centro Berks. “The spaces we dedicated today will create pathways for career success, economic mobility, and generational change.”

As Pennsylvania and the nation continue to confront workforce shortages across key industries, Tec Centro Berks is helping to meet that challenge head-on. Through culturally responsive training and wraparound support services, the center is preparing a new generation of bilingual professionals ready to contribute to the region’s economic growth.

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Source: bctv