Press Release: New Career and Technical Education Center Opens in Michigan City
Michigan City, IN – In a landmark event this week, Michigan City school officials celebrated the opening of a new Career and Technical Education (CTE) center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The $13.5 million facility, located at the former Brown Mackie College site, will serve as a crucial hub for vocational training in the region, complementing the existing A.K. Smith Career Center.
The CTE South Campus aims to equip high school students with practical skills needed in today’s job market, featuring programs in automotive, construction, healthcare, and criminal justice. Dr. David Notary, CTE Director, expressed optimism about the state-of-the-art facilities, including a Health Academy lab equipped with simulation medical stations and an Automotive Technology lab designed for real-world customer interactions.
With a current enrollment of approximately 350 students from seven local high schools in La Porte County and New Buffalo, the center offers an innovative educational model, allowing students to earn both high school and college credits through partnerships with Ivy Tech and Vincennes University, alongside professional certifications.
Additionally, the facility includes the Little Wolves Early Learning Center, expanding educational services to younger students. Superintendent Dr. Wendel McCollum emphasized the school’s commitment to creating well-rounded students prepared for college and career pathways, marking the project’s significance in the broader conversation on educational development in the state.
School Board President Marty Corley highlighted the collaborative effort behind the project, which was executed tax-neutrally to avoid additional taxpayer burdens. Attendees enjoyed tours guided by students and refreshments prepared by Culinary Arts students following the ceremony.
The center has been officially named after recently-retired superintendent Dr. Barbara Eason-Watkins, reflecting her contributions to education in the community.
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