St. Clair County Community College’s proposed Health Sciences A.J. Theisen Building renovation is moving forward after Governor Rick Snyder signed HB #4320 in late December.
With capital project plans now approved, $4.9 million of the $9.8 million project will be funded by the State of Michigan. The College will renovate the A.J. Theisen building along the Black River for health science programs. The renovation accelerates the expansion of programs and will serve more students via advanced teaching systems including virtual and simulated learning techniques. Program development for expanded health sciences programs and building renovations are currently underway.
“This is outstanding news for our college and the entire community,” said Dr. Deborah Snyder, SC4 president. “Meeting the needs of the students we serve is our primary mission. Obtaining $4.9 million from the state in support of our efforts to train more students in high wage, high demand healthcare careers is significant. Our project was highly ranked by the state and the funding received is indicative of the overall project value. We are excited to get this project underway and continue making a positive impact on our community.”
State Senator Phil Pavlov and State Representatives Dan Lauwers, Shane Hernandez and Pamela Hornberger, from St. Clair County districts, were instrumental in supporting the project. State representative support is essential during the submittal process as well as community support for the project. Local support demonstrates the combined efforts to bring viable collegiate training to our area.
There is a strong demand for highly-skilled health sciences professionals, and statistics indicate that demand will continue to grow into the future. Careers in health science areas offer long-term and high-wage growth, engagement, and job security. The College recently added a new MRI program and exploration for additional new programs such as Respiratory Therapy, Surgical Technology, and Diagnostic Medical Sonography is in progress. These programs are in addition to established programs at the College, which include Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, Certified Nurse Aide, Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic, Medical Assisting, Radiologic Technology, Therapeutic Massage, and Health Information Technology.
“With the aging of the population and the increased need for qualified health care workers,” said Julie Armstrong, Chief Academic Officer and Vice President of Academic Services, “SC4 is committed to providing health-care related programs that will prepare our students for careers in high-demand, high-wage careers while also providing our community employers with the skilled workforce that they require.”
Construction is expected to begin in summer of 2018, with the new facility opening by fall 2019.
