April 15, 2007
Empty pilings will no longer stand empty as construction for the 20,000 square foot Technical Education and Support Services building begins. The building will serve as vocational classroom space and administrative offices for Yuut Elitnaurviat.
By Tiffany Zulkosky
YKHC's President/CEO, Gene Peltola, has long been a champion of workforce development in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. When meeting with U.S. Senator Ted Stevens many years ago, he pinpointed a major long-term need in Southwest Alaska--a regional vocational training center.
Soon after, the conversation developed into a non-profit organization, Yuut Elitnaurviat: The People's Learning Center. Today the 501(c)(3) organization is partnered with various agencies in the community, including YKHC. Each partnering agency provides a unique component that is bringing YE to the forefront of regional training centers in Alaska.
"Without Gene and YKHC's Board and staff support, YE would not be what it is today," YE Executive Director LaMont Albertson said. "It is Gene's dream that the YK Delta become a net-exporter of qualified employees. His vision on our board has enabled us to see great success and work towards achieving that goal."
YE has again begun construction on the 10-acre campus in Bethel's City Subdivision. Two, 22-bed dormitories are scheduled to be completed and occupied by Fall 2007. The weatherproof shell of a 20,000 square foot educational facility will also be completed this winter. The campus is expected to be fully operational by winter 2008.
www.yuut.org 907-543-6985
YE upcoming courses - 06/07 Academic Year
Construction Academy, Part 1
April 16-27, 2007
Youth Academy - Introduction to Construction Driving
April 30-May 11, 2007
Construction Academy, Part 2:
May 14-25, 2007
40-hour GPS/Civil Academy
May 28-June 01, 2007
07/08 Academic Year
Certified Interpretive Guide Course
October 2-5, 2007
16-hour 6-pack
October 15-16, 2007
MORE COURSES TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON