Westover JCC considering partnership with neighboring air base

The Westover Air Reserve Base lies just over the fence from the MTC-operated Westover Job Corps Center, in Chicopee, Massachusetts.  The center, in fact, is housed in former base buildings, declared surplus many years ago.  

Despite this close proximity, traditionally there has never been a lot of interaction between the base and the center.  However, officials on both sides of the fence say that may soon change.

Attending a recent Westover Job Corps Center Community Relations Council meeting, Col. Bob Swain – commander of the 439th Airlift Wing – expressed interest in putting Job Corps students to work. 

Col. Swain spoke with Westover Center Director Curtis Price about the possibility of having Job Corps students involved in catering events at the base.  Additionally, both men said other collaborations might be possible as well.
“I look forward to working with you,” Price told the Colonel.

Westover students studying construction and computer technology trades could become involved in the partnership, as further details are discussed.

Westover Air Reserve Base employs 3,600 people, including military personnel, Civil Service workers and private contractors.

Westover Job Corps Center has a capacity of 550 students.

(Posted 05/10/09)

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