Lower Columbia College Secures State Funding for New Center for Vocational and Transitional Studies

Lower Columbia College Secures State Funding for New Center for Vocational and Transitional Studies

Lower Columbia College (LCC) is thrilled to announce that the Washington State Legislature has included $45,196,000 in the final capital budget, officially funding the new Center for Vocational and Transitional Studies construction. This state-of-the-art, three-story facility will encompass approximately 46,669 square feet, replacing four outdated buildings on campus to create a centralized, modern space designed to meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, and regional industries.

“We are incredibly grateful for the state’s investment in Lower Columbia College and the future of our students,” said Dr. Matt Seimears, President of LCC. “This new Center for Vocational and Transitional Studies will be a world-class skills hub—right here in Southwest Washington. It will give our students access to cutting-edge technology and hands-on training that prepares them for high-demand careers. This is a game-changer for our region’s workforce and a bold step forward in meeting the needs of industry, students, and our community.”

Key Features and Benefits:

The Center for Vocational and Transitional Studies will serve a wide range of learners:

• Industrial trades students gaining workforce-ready welding, machining, and fabrication skills.
• IT and Computer Science students training in labs designed for evolving technology demands.
• Adult learners and English Language Students participating in College and Career Preparation
  programs, including GED completion and adult basic education.
• Workforce development participants seeking retraining or skill upgrades for new career
  pathways.

Legislative and Federal Support:

Included in the state’s 2025–2027 capital budget, the Washington State Legislature has approved $45,196,000 for construction of the new Center for Vocational and Transitional Studies—marking a significant investment in the future of workforce training and education in Southwest Washington. In March 2024, LCC was also awarded $1 million in federal funds, which will be used toward equipment needs for the center—another important milestone in delivering on this bold vision.

The Opportunity Can’t Wait Campaign:

In tandem with this historic investment, the Opportunity Can’t Wait Campaign—Lower Columbia College Foundation’s most ambitious fundraising effort to date—continues to build momentum. Having already raised over $13.6 million, the campaign continues through 2025, supporting LCC’s highest-priority needs, including equipment and technology for the new Center. In addition to outfitting the new center, funds will support student scholarships and improvements to key campus facilities, including Story Field. Community support remains essential to helping LCC reach its goal and ensure students can access the tools and resources needed to succeed in high-demand fields.

Community and Regional Impact:

The new center will:

• Improve student success through upgraded facilities and resources.
• Support economic development by producing job-ready workers.
• Prepare graduates to meet the skill needs of local employers.
• Expand access to education for non-traditional and adult learners.

Next Steps:

With state funding secured, LCC will proceed with final design, permitting, and site preparation. Construction is expected to begin in November 2025, and updates will be provided throughout the project timeline.

About Lower Columbia College:

Established in 1934, Lower Columbia College serves the educational and workforce development needs of Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties. With more than 90 program options and a strong record of student success, LCC plays a vital role in building a skilled workforce and strengthening the local economy.
For more information on capital projects at LCC, visit https://lowercolumbia.edu/buildings/capital-projects/.