News

During a ceremony held today at the site of its new Center for Transportation Technology, a division of Baker College of Flint, representatives from Baker College, local dignitaries and community business leaders officially “broke ground” for the new facility. The Center for Transportation Technology is located at 1717 South Dort Highway, the former site of the Superior Pontiac-Cadillac dealership in Flint.

Officials from Baker College of Flint and guest speakers included:

• Dr. Julianne Princinsky – Baker College of Flint president
• Phillip Whitmer – Baker College of Flint dean of transportation technology
• Dwayne Miller – Acting city administrator and director of government operations, city of Flint
• Tim Herman – Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce CEO
• Karyn Miller – Flint Township supervisor
• Tiffany Flynn – District chief of staff for Congressman Dale E. Kildee
• Joe Serra, Serra Automotive president
• Timothy Hopkins – Baker student (holds associate degree in transportation management and will soon graduate, earning a BBA)

“Going back almost a century, when Baker Business University was founded by Eldon E. Baker in 1911, we have been committed to the Flint area and its citizens,” said Julianne T. Princinsky, Ed.D., Baker College of Flint president. “Today’s momentous occasion is a continuation of that long-term commitment to this region and to individuals who seek a challenging and rewarding career through quality higher education and training.”

In February, Baker College of Flint officials announced the purchase of 11.27 acres of land, including existing buildings totaling 62,055 square feet, from Al Serra Chevrolet. The capital investment exceeds $3.77 million.

The new Center for Transportation Technology division allows Baker College of Flint the opportunity to expand its automotive technician enrollment, accommodate the increased demand in the trucking and transportation arena, proactively implement emerging programs, and respond to the marketplace need for highly trained transportation individuals.

The first phase of the renovation/building project will be completed by the start of fall 2009 classes. It begins with the construction of a truck repair and inspection building, and trucking program lab areas. Other aspects include:

• Renovation of the automotive technology and classroom building
• Refurbishing the exterior of the used car, body shop and parts buildings, the car wash area and the storage facility
• Landscaping of islands and green areas
• Paving, sealing and stripping of parking lots
• Security wiring and equipment in all buildings
• Computers, phones and sound system in all buildings
• New furniture, computers and automotive equipment
• New signage

The next phase will include renovations to three other existing buildings. Baker officials anticipate an additional $1 million investment in renovations and equipment for phase two.

Programs that will be offered at the new site for academic year 2009-2010 include: a truck driving certificate, a transportation management associate degree, automotive technology, heavy equipment operator and possibly auto body repair.
New programs slated for academic year 2010-2011 include: small engine repair, marine engine technology, small business incubators and other programs that address changes in the transportation industry.

Jim Morgan, of Morgan Construction Company, heads up the project and Murray Young is the general contractor.