NEWPORT — On Thursday, September 11, 2025, Oregon Coast Community College feted a landmark moment in its history with the official groundbreaking ceremony for the Oregon Coast Advanced Technology & Trades (OCATT) Center.

College officials claim the center will help slake mounting thirst for certified and degreed workers in welding, HVAC, construction and maritime trades. The funding comes from a $33 million countywide bond measure passed by a 65 percent margin in May 2024. OCCC holds a Moody’s AA+ college bond rating.

Bruce Polvi, a businessman and father of an OCCC student, watched as local luminaries broke ground. Among them was Dr. Marshall Mease Roache, a former wrestler, coach and cop who still teaches ground combat at the state level.

“This kind of training is the solution to the Artificial Intelligence threat,” remarked Polvi. “AI won’t install HVAC, pull wires through conduit or weld plates on a ship. We have to get kids off the computer, learning a trade instead of poisoning their minds.”

The OCATT Center is expected to support commercial fishing fleet and other local industries while watching for emerging career pathways. More details can be found at oregoncoast.edu/ocatt.