Trade Tech Breaks Ground for South Campus
State senator Mark Ridley-Thomas put it this way….” Community colleges have an extreme important role to play in our economic future”. Those words were part of a rousing speech delivered by the senator from the 26 th district, as a highlight of the South Towers Project Ground Breaking at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College . Trustees Angela Reddock, Nancy Pearlman, Georgia Mercer and Board president Sylvia Scott-Hayes were on hand to give their blessing, with Scott-Hayes talking about the importance of these buildings to student services. Chancellor Mark Drummond re-emphasized the political and economic push needed to solidify the role of community colleges, and with it, the importance of passing Proposition 92 in February. Los Angeles city councilwoman Jan Perry has long seen LATTC as an important light in her district and this community. She said these buildings represent growth and opportunity. The proceedings were part of a “podcast” and will be seen on the college website thanks to the efforts of Linda Delzeit, Joe Messinger, Patrick Reed and Sang Baik.

But ultimately the real winners in this ground breaking will be the students and they were in attendance as well. Cosmetology, sign graphics, fashion design and architecture technology students all made presentations at the event, all showing their trade skills as artists. It was a great way to frame the importance of the South Towers Project. Two buildings, one for student services and administration, and the other for technology, will make LATTC a leader in “green” construction and architectural design. The buildings will change the focal point of Los Angeles Trade-Technical College to the corner of 23 rd St. and Grand Avenue. And there are more projects to come. The momentum is just starting. 071101