Oregon Coast Community College (OCCC) is experiencing a period of remarkable growth and transformation, according to Vice President for Engagement Dave Price. Last month at the Newport Chamber luncheon Price highlighted the college’s increasing enrollment, robust financial health, and ambitious plans for new facilities and academic programs. OCCC served approximately 2,300 students last year, a number that continues to rise. “We actually grew throughout the year, which oftentimes isn’t the case,” Price noted, emphasizing the college’s success in attracting and retaining students, even as many juggle work and family responsibilities.

Financially, OCCC stands out among its peers. “Our reserve is growing, our rollover balance is growing,” Price said, crediting the college’s conservative fiscal management. This stability has allowed OCCC to move forward with major projects, including the much-anticipated Trades Education Center. Thanks to strong community support—evidenced by a recent property tax levy extension—the college is set to break ground on the new Trades Education Center on September 11, at 11am at the Central Campus in Newport. The facility will house programs in construction, carpentry, pre-apprenticeship, industrial facilities maintenance, maritime technology, and welding. “We recognize the pronounced lack of trades education in our area,” Price explained, adding that the new center will help meet local workforce needs.

The new trades center will allow for combined programming. Price said the college will anticipate the market and the economy and the employer needs and acknowledge that those are subject to change. Right now, he said, they anticipate hosted programs at the center will include construction, carpentry skills, development, pre pre-apprenticeship. Also, industrial facilities, maintenance, and maritime technology. They also look to grow the welding program, which already exists with the East County Coalition in Toledo, as well as with partnerships at the lab at Taft High School and a coming lab partnership in Walport.

The college is also celebrating a historic milestone: for the first time in its 37-year history, OCCC has been approved to offer a four-year degree in nursing, with the program set to launch in fall 2026. “We’ve been working towards this for a very long time,” Price said. As OCCC continues to expand its offerings and facilities, Price expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from Lincoln County residents and local partners. “The county’s support to this institution has been remarkable,” he said, underscoring the collaborative spirit driving the college’s success. For more information about OCCC’s programs and upcoming events, visit the college’s website.