The Newburgh Enlarged City School District celebrated the groundbreaking of its long-awaited Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center on Wednesday with a ceremony that included speeches and a ceremonial dirt toss by district leaders and project partners. The facility, expected to open in summer 2026, will serve as a hub for technical education adjacent to the Newburgh Free Academy Main Campus on Fullerton Avenue.

The CTE Center is a collaborative effort between the district, CSArch, Jacobs Project Managers Co., and Pike Construction Services. With over 20 programs planned, the facility will occupy a site on 220 West Street, where construction and site clearing are already underway. The center is part of the Capital Bond Project approved by voters in May 2019, with planning beginning in 2016.

According to the district’s website, programs to be housed at the new center include Auto Body, Cosmetology, Computer Science & Coding, Auto Technology, Construction, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Electrical, Emergency Management, Engineering & Architecture, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Health Sciences, Photography, Video Production, Welding, Barbering, and Nutrition and Alternative Medicine.

Superintendent Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell was joined at the ceremony by Deputy Superintendent Dr. Onyx Peterson, board members, district executives, local and county officials, and representatives from trades and construction unions.

“Today we mark a new chapter in our educational journey, serving students whether they choose college or a trade,” said Manning Campbell. “This groundbreaking symbolizes not only the start of construction but also our commitment to a state-of-the-art facility where students can realize their dreams and potential.”

Newburgh Free Academy Co-Principals Matteo Doddo and Susan Valentino expressed excitement for the future of the center and the opportunities it will provide students.

“This isn’t just about breaking ground; it’s about setting a realistic future for all of our students,” said Doddo. “This center will serve our community for years to come.”

Valentino noted the center’s progress, calling it a proud moment for the district. “In a short time, our students will have access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology. It’s going to be amazing,” she said.

Director of Career and Technical Education John Etri shared his pride in the project. “This full-day vocational school represents the future of our students, community, and workforce,” Etri said. “The hands-on experience it will provide will help students step confidently into their careers.”

Todd D’Orio, president of the Hudson Valley Building and Construction Trade Council, thanked NECSD for its partnership with local labor unions, calling the center a “great opportunity” for workforce development.

Local leaders in attendance included Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey, Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson, Senator Rob Rolison, and other Orange County and New Windsor officials. “This is a collaborative achievement,” said Harvey. “I’m proud of our district leadership, teachers, staff, students, and residents.”

County Economic Development Director Steven Gross added that exposing young people to career options early helps them define future goals.

Board members John Doerre and Philip Howard also spoke of the project’s importance. “This is one of the biggest things to happen in our community in a long time,” said Doerre. Howard, who has served on the board for 13 years, added, “It’s a beacon of pride for our future generations.”