​ From left to right: Matt Weng, Gloucester County Commissioner; Jim Jefferson, Gloucester County Commissioner Deputy Director; Joann Gattinelli, Gloucester County Commissioner; Heather Simmons, VP, CTE & Workforce Development RCSJ; Susan Heiken, Superintendent, GCIT; GCIT Students; Dr. Fred Keating, RCSJ President; Steve Sweeney, VP Ironworkers International; Chad Bruner, Gloucester County Administrator; Donald Norcross, Congressman; Frank DiMarco, Gloucester County Commissioner Director; Daniel Cosner, Building Trades Council of Southern New Jersey; Joe Chila, Gloucester County Surrogate<

Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ), together with the Gloucester County Board of Commissioners, Ironworkers 399 and Building Trades Council of Southern New Jersey, celebrated the groundbreaking of the expansion of its existing Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center on Thursday, Oct. 24.

​The new facility, which will span over 13,000 square feet, will include two new classrooms, a state-of-the-art welding lab, a construction lab, and dedicated HVAC, plumbing, and electrical stations. This initiative aims to address workforce demands while providing valuable training opportunities for students.

"The expansion of the CTE Center is a pivotal step in equipping our students with the necessary skills and training to thrive in today's job market. We are grateful for the support of the Gloucester County Board of Commissioners, which has made this project possible. Together, we are building a strong foundation for the future of our community," said Dr. Fred Keating, president of RCSJ.

The call for the expansion comes from the national labor shortage the United States has seen since March and April of 2020. According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research, the industry has only recovered 67% of jobs lost., the industry has only recovered 67% of jobs lost.

"Rowan College of South Jersey's new construction and utilities training space will equip the next generation for family sustaining careers and good-paying jobs, " said Congressman Donald Norcross. "Today's groundbreaking ceremony marks the opportunities ahead for those who wish to develop the skills needed for a high demand job." 

The expansion will allow CTE to introduce new certificate programs on the Gloucester Campus, strengthening partnerships with local unions, businesses and industries in search of qualified candidates. The new programs will include Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing/HVAC, Remediation/Rehabilitation, and Welding.

“Skilled tradespeople are the backbone of our economy, enabling New Jersey to build essential infrastructure and drive innovation throughout the state. Investing in training for trades is not just about building skills; it's about creating a foundation for a sustainable future. Empowering workers with hands-on knowledge fosters innovation, strengthens our economy, and ensures that we have the skilled labor needed to tackle challenges," said Steve Sweeney, Vice President Ironworkers International.

“Some students really don't know what direction they want to go in. When you go into schools, people aren't sure what carpenters, electricians (etc.) really do. This partnership with Rowan is another step in that direction, of really helping students get into the pathways and careers that they need," said Daniel Cosner, Building Trades Counsil of Southern NJ.

This expansion has been made possible thanks to the support of the Gloucester County Board of Commissioners, who contributed over $7 million towards the project. Their commitment underscores the importance of vocational education in fostering economic growth and addressing workforce shortages in industries across the county and state of New Jersey.

"Investing in education is investing in the future of our community. We are proud to support Rowan College of South Jersey in this endeavor, which will ultimately benefit our residents and local economy by producing skilled workers ready to meet the needs of our county," said Frank J. DiMarco, Director of the Gloucester County Board of Commissioners.

With RCSJ's Flagship Partner, Rowan University, construction trades programs will have an opportunity for those looking to take the next step on the ladder to management in their respective field. Students can earn up to 24 technical credits for their work experience and apprenticeship programs. The credits will apply to the Technical Studies associate degree, thus beginning their Pathway to Construction Trades and Management. Students will seamlessly continue with Rowan University to earn a bachelor's degree in Construction Management.  Rowan University also offers graduate programs featuring a Construction Management Track or Project Management Track.

Construction of the expanded CTE Center is anticipated to be completed by Spring 2026. The addition of these specialized labs and classrooms will allow RCSJ to accommodate more students, provide hands-on training, and align with industry standards.

For more information about the Career and Technical Education Center and the programs offered at Rowan College of South Jersey, please visit www.rcsj.edu/cte.

For media inquiries or further information about the partnership, please contact: 

Shannon O'Brien, Manager, Communications & Engagement, Rowan College of South Jersey (856) 384-6964 [email protected]

About Rowan College of South Jersey
Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ) is a comprehensive community college that provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality educational experiences for students of all ages and backgrounds. With campuses in Cumberland and Gloucester Counties, RCSJ offers a wide range of degree and certificate programs designed to meet the needs of the local community.

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