Martin County's REACH Center has opened its doors and begun offering workforce training programs designed to prepare residents for jobs in high-demand industries. The roughly $4.5 million facility completed construction earlier this year and is now hosting courses ranging from medical administrative assistant certification to technical aviation training for Daher Aerospace.
Evelyn Lopez was among the first 10 students to complete a medical administrative assistant cohort this summer. She passed the certification exam and is now exploring job opportunities. The program included mock interviews with professionals to prepare students for the hiring process. Lopez said her parents were proud of her achievement because it opened more career opportunities.
George Stokus, assistant county administrator, said the center serves students uncertain about college, those without financial means to pursue higher education immediately, and adults seeking career changes or skill improvements. The facility aims to create a local pipeline for jobs in aviation, marine, medicine, manufacturing, and environmental studies.
Ted Astolfi, CEO and president of the Economic Council of Martin County, said the center's mission focuses on creating upward economic mobility for the community. The center aims to help residents grow into better jobs rather than remain at a single economic level. Additional programs are planned to expand the range of training opportunities available to Martin County residents.