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The college's leadership, along with elected officials and local leaders, on Thursday celebrated the opening of the $6 million facility. It houses the college's Office of Community Education and Workforce Development and the Cayuga Works Career Center, which provides employment and training services. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cayuga County will also occupy space inside the renovated building. 

Cayuga Community College President Dr. Brian Durant told ÈËÊÞÐÔ½» that he had conversations with the Cornell Cooperative Extension's board when the building was for sale. He viewed it as prime real estate that could benefit the college and the community. 

One question was what the college would do with the building. Early on, Durant said workforce development emerged as "the prime idea." 

"I really felt the college's commitment to being a comprehensive college, not only serving those traditional-aged students for transfer, but also trying to be a resource for business and economic mobility," he said. 

The two-story facility is equipped with classrooms for training sessions and meeting space. With Cayuga Works on site, residents can get assistance with obtaining credentials or learning new skills. The college plans to increase its course offerings, according to Durant. 

U.S. Rep. John Mannion, who represents Auburn and part of Cayuga County, recalled the tough economic times central New York went through, especially when major manufacturers closed in the latter half of the 20th century. He highlighted the important role played by educational institutions, including Cayuga Community College. 

"Building the workforce of the future and creating opportunities for young people to succeed right here in Cayuga County and right here in central New York has been my life's work," Mannion, D-Geddes, said. "Days like today are incredibly meaningful to me." 

Aileen McNabb-Coleman, a county legislator and representative for state Sen. Rachel May, presented a proclamation to Durant. She is a Cayuga Community College alumna. 

The college, McNabb-Coleman said, is a "tremendous asset to our community." 

"This college is providing pathways for everyone of every background, every variability, to make it in life," she added. 

The opening of the workforce development center comes as Cayuga County and central New York are preparing for the Micron project. The semiconductor chip manufacturer is planning to build mega fabs in neighboring Onondaga County. The company will employ 9,000 people, with 40,000 more jobs expected in supporting industries. 

With an influx of jobs likely coming in the next two decades, skilled workers are needed to meet that demand. 

"A center like this, whether it'd be for manufacturing on the Auburn campus or other supply chain programs that we'll be able to offer here as well, it puts us in a position to have a facility and a commitment of the college that's ready to expand what we offer and help support those emerging needs," Durant said. 

The workforce development center adds to the college's other offerings beyond its Auburn and Fulton campuses. The college opened the Cayuga Culinary Institute in 2021 and will be opening a regional law enforcement training center in Fulton this year.