On August 15, 2023, Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) President Dr. John Rainone cut the grand opening ribbon for MGCC’s interim Workforce Development Center in Buena Vista. The event marked the phase 1 milestone of constructing the Wilson Workforce Development Center in the former Courtesy Ford Dealership building. MGCC students began courses the following Monday (August 21st) in the McCormick Building at 2045 Forest Avenue. MGCC programs will encompass HVAC, building, electrical, plumbing, industrial technology, precision machining, welding, diesel mechanics, and CDL training for these in-demand career fields.
Local representatives taking part in the ribbon cutting included Ramsey Real Estate owner Skip Ramsey, Rockbridge County Administrator Spencer Suter, Lexington City Council member Marilyn Alexander, Rockbridge Odd Fellows Society Treasurer Tony McFaddin, Buena Vista City Manager Jason Tyree, MGCC President, Dr. John Rainone, MGCC Technical Services employee Billy Oulds, and Lexington Mayor Frank Friedman.