The Central Oregon Builders Association (COBA) announces the grant donation of $108,000 to COCC Skilled Trades Pre-Apprenticeship program. This donation was presented to the COCC Apprenticeship Program on Thursday January 19 at COBA’s Annual Excellence Award Event.
Gary North, who is the vice president of R&H Construction, as well as the current COBA Board president said, “In a time when more people are retiring than getting into the trades, investments like these are critical for the future of our workforce. Thank you to the many members of COBA that have been pushing for these programs behind the scenes.”
COBA understands the need to invest in the building and construction work force as 13,000 construction workers are needed in Oregon to create a housing production surge.
“We are proud to be able to make this donation to COCC who will facilitate the much-needed education for our construction industry” said Tim Knopp, executive vice president. COBA has been actively working with various organizations to provide support to the local construction industry and encourage people to get into the trades. This donation with the help of Federal and County partners will go directly to assisting construction education and underserved communities.
“COBA’s funding award is a major investment in COCC’s commitment to expanding the skilled trades in rural areas of Central Oregon,” said Michael Fisher, instructional dean for COCC. “We will be able to bring equipment, materials, and hands-on learning into different communities while supporting our region’s employers.”
About Central Oregon Builders Association:
Central Oregon Builders Association (COBA) is a 700-member non-profit trade association. The mission of COBA is to represent the building industry before government and the community, to promote high ethical standards within the building industry, to provide service to its membership and to defend the opportunities of home ownership for all.
