EAST GREENWICH, RI — New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) officially broke ground on its new $40 million Innovation Center for Building Sciences, marking a significant investment in skilled trades education and the next generation of workers needed to support Rhode Island and the region’s economy.
The new 45,000-square-foot Innovation Center will serve as a hub for several of NEIT’s skilled trades programs in a purpose-built facility on its East Greenwich campus with the ability to serve approximately 1,000 students annually — double its current training capacity. The facility’s modern learning environments will have industry-relevant equipment that reflects the evolving demands of the workforce and will be home to programs offering degrees in:
- Building construction technology
- Electrical technology
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technology
- Plumbing and heating technology
- Architectural engineering
- Construction management
The groundbreaking ceremony brought together industry leaders with the NEIT community, joined by community partners and elected officials to celebrate the project, which will expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades.
“Our philosophy here at New England Tech has been rooted in preparing students for the careers our economy depends on, and this investment builds on that commitment by expanding opportunities for the next generation of skilled trades professionals,” said Richard Gouse, President of New England Institute of Technology. “As demand for skilled workers continues to grow, we’re investing in education that delivers real-world experience, meaningful career opportunities, and a faster path from the classroom to the workforce.”
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Through accelerated degree pathways, industry connections, and hands-on learning, NEIT prepares graduates to enter their chosen fields quicker, with practical skills and experience.
“When people look at this new Innovation Center, they’ll see a building, classrooms, labs, and equipment. But I see future careers beginning. I see future tradespeople, project managers, and business leaders discovering their path. This facility will create opportunities for generations of students to come,” said Ashley Phelps, Director of Supply Chain at Gilbane Building Company and a 2009 Building Construction Technology graduate of New England Tech.
Construction on the facility is now underway.
The Innovation Center for Building Sciences will be funded through a combination of institutional investment, industry partnerships, and philanthropic contributions. Private support will help fund learning spaces, advanced equipment, student scholarships, and workforce initiatives that prepare tomorrow’s leaders in the trade industries.
