State Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Chehalis, earlier this month visited Centralia College’s Mobile Career and Technical Education (CTE) Training Lab during a stop at Tenino Middle School, highlighting the importance of hands-on learning opportunities and workforce development for students across Southwest Washington, the lawmaker stated in a news release.
The mobile lab had previously been in Chehalis and Centralia school districts and was set to next head to the Rochester School District.
“Programs like the Mobile Training Lab are critical to preparing the next generation of workers,” said Abbarno, who is also a former president of the Centralia College Foundation. “It is amazing to see the Training Lab in action and being taken to local schools. By bringing real-world, hands-on learning experiences directly to our schools, we are opening doors for students and strengthening our local workforce pipeline.”
Centralia College’s Mobile Training Lab is an innovative program that brings career-connected education directly to schools throughout the region. Equipped with modern tools and technology, the mobile lab introduces students to high-demand career pathways, including welding, manufacturing and skilled trades, helping them build practical skills and explore future career opportunities at an early age, Abbarno stated in the release.
During the visit, Abbarno toured the mobile lab, observed students participating in interactive activities and spoke with educators about the impact of career and technical education in rural communities. Students demonstrated welding, log harvesting, as well as the bulldozer and flight simulator. Teachers and program leaders emphasized how early exposure to these fields increases student engagement, confidence, and interest in postsecondary education and careers.
The lab is also part of a broader regional workforce effort known as “The Pipeline Project,” which brings together education, industry and community leaders to create stronger career pathways for students. The tour was organized by The Pipeline Project leaders Bill Sullivan, Bob Guenther and Lorie Thompson, whose collaboration helps ensure students are better connected to real-world career opportunities, Abbarno stated in the release.
Abbarno has been an advocate for workforce development and education initiatives, including support for career and technical education programs that align with the needs of local employers and regional industries, according to the release.
“Education should meet students where they are and help them discover pathways to success,” Abbarno added. “Whether that path includes college, apprenticeships or entering the workforce, programs like this ensure students are better prepared for life after graduation.”
