In a poignant ceremony attended by David Allain's friends and family, South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) and the Port of West St. Mary proudly revealed the newly christened David Allain Center, a cutting-edge workforce training facility designed to propel regional economic development and provide students with unparalleled training opportunities.
David Allain, the late Executive Director of the Port of West St. Mary, was instrumental in bringing this facility to fruition, and today's ceremony paid tribute to his enduring commitment to the community. The David Allain Center, located near Baldwin, stands as a testament to Allain's vision and marks a significant stride in the realm of workforce development.
Constructed with the support of an Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant, the facility embodies the collective efforts of SLCC, the Port of West St. Mary, and the State of Louisiana to accelerate innovation, fortify industry clusters, and create higher-skill, living-wage jobs. This state-of-the-art training hub features classrooms, 12 welding booths, and a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) pad, providing students with the tools and experiences necessary to thrive in today's dynamic job market.
Dr. Vincent June, SLCC Chancellor, expressed gratitude for David Allain's pivotal role, stating, "All of David’s tireless efforts to make this training facility possible represent just one of his many efforts throughout his lifetime in advancing workforce development in the region. The college would like to express our gratitude for all of his hard work and the incredible legacy that he has left with the St. Mary Parish community."
The new classrooms, welding booths, and CDL pad signify a commitment to training the future residents of St. Mary Parish. The partnership between SLCC and the Port of West St. Mary aims to better serve the community and provide students with the tools they need to succeed.
The SLCC community extends its gratitude to all those who played a role in making the David Allain Center a reality. The facility stands as a beacon of opportunity and a tribute to a visionary leader, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.