Transportation technology center to open by 2010
By Randy Conat
FLINT (WJRT) -- (05/05/09) -- Baker College took a big step forward today in developing a transportation technology center in Flint.
By next August, those who want to learn to repair cars or drive the big rigs will be coming to the new campus.
They cut the ribbon in the typical way, but used some heavy equipment for the groundbreaking. And why not? That's just one example of the kind of education that will happen at Baker's new Transportation Technology Division.
"There will always be a need for transportation of goods, services and produce. We believe Flint is coming back and we want to help the cause as we move along," Baker College of Flint President Dr. Julianne Princinsky.
Back in February, Baker bought the site of the former Superior Pontiac Cadillac on Dort Highway near I-69. Construction workers will be putting in long hours this summer as they renovate the main showroom building and work on other projects. They want it ready for fall classes.
"We're standing in the middle of what's going to be our new truck barn. It's going to be about 100 feet long and 50 feet wide," Baker College Dean of Transportation Phillip Whitmer said.
Programs to be offered at the new site include truck driving certificates and training in operating heavy equipment. Everyone is excited about the coming changes. "I actually am. There's a new purpose for coming to work everyday. It's going to be a challenge to bring it all online in three months and make sure that the programs are of the quality expected at Baker College."
Baker College bought the former dealership from Serra Automotive for $3.8 million. It will spend another million dollars preparing it for students and staff.
"This site would have been vacant. We are going to repurpose it," Princinsky said.
"We're going to put our money in Flint. It's a Flint-based program," noted Whitmer.
Baker hopes to offer classes in small engine repair and marine engine technology in 2010.
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