Mount Wachusett Community College receives skills capital grant

GARDNER — The Baker-Polito administration recently announced the award of more than $32 million in grants to educational institutions and vocational schools in support of the administration’s effort to address skill gaps and workforce development.

MWCC received $500,000 to purchase simulation equipment to expand and upgrade two of its Simulated Health Science Labs (SIM labs) and accompanying control and debriefing rooms for its nursing programs. By upgrading the equipment, MWCC students will have improved access to industry standard equipment proving students a stronger educational foundation before entering the workforce by using modern patient care simulation experiences.

Students in the certified nursing assistant to licensed practical nursing pathway, associate degree in nursing, and practical nursing certificate programs will benefit from the enhancements the grant makes possible.

“Simulation labs are a critical component of modern nursing education. High fidelity simulation experiences give students the opportunity to apply theory to practice in a safe, hands-on learning environment,” notes Dr. Kim Shea, Dean of Nursing. “Through simulation, students can engage in diverse clinical experiences that they may not have access to in the traditional clinical practicum setting. This grant allows us to expand the access students have to this valuable education tool.”

“Skills Capital grants fund technology and equipment that reflect what students will see in the workplace, giving them hands-on applied learning experiences that are valuable to them and employers,” said Education Secretary James Peyser in the Governor’s announcement on July 22, 2022. “Students gain knowledge and confidence in growing industries and employers are able to hire employees ready to be productive from the day they start.”

The Skills Capital grant program was originally launched in 2015 with the goal of replacing outdated equipment and technology, mainly at vocational technical high schools and community colleges. Since that time, 477 grants totaling approximately $129 million have been awarded to 194 different schools and educational institutions, benefiting 50,000 students across the Commonwealth.