University of Rhode Island and General Dynamics Electric Boat secure new contract to boost regional submarine workforce
The University of Rhode Island (URI) and General Dynamics Electric Boat, both members of the New England Council, have announced a new five-year contract to support regional workforce development across southern New England schools. This contract, which also includes the University of Connecticut (UConn), will expand the current work of the UConn-URI Navy STEM Coalition, which was founded in 2017 to encourage skilled trades and careers necessary for constructing submarines.
Funds from the new contract will support K-12 outreach in the region, including classroom visits, field trips, professional development, and support for undergraduate and graduate students involved with naval science and technology on the universities’ campuses. Electric Boat has two local locations: one in Groton, Connecticut, and another in Quonset Point in North Kingstown, Rhode Island.
“These centers, along with the universities, are the undisputed global epicenter of submarine research, development and manufacturing,” said URI Engineering Dean Anthony Marchese. “The coalition’s efforts will have a substantial impact on southern New England and beyond, ensuring that our students and workforce are equipped to lead in submarine production and innovation for decades to come,” UConn Engineering Dean JC Zhao also stated.
The New England Council congratulates the University of Rhode Island and General Dynamics Electric Boat on this exciting development.
Read more via The Boston Globe.