EdAdvance Celebrates Grand Opening of College and Career Accelerator

College and Career Accelerator (CCA) Students attend the program's Grand Opening.

EdAdvance proudly marked the successful launch of the College and Career Accelerator (CCA) at the Dr. Jeffrey C. Kitching Regional Learning Center in Torrington. The event brought together more than 60 educators, students, local businesses, and community leaders to celebrate this innovative initiative that aims to provide high school students with valuable postsecondary education and career opportunities.

Reflecting on the event, Dan Cocchiola, Director of Career Pathways and Workforce Development, emphasized the program’s impact: “The grand opening of the College and Career Accelerator is pivotal for our students and the workforce needs of our region. This program is a game-changer, providing students with access to dual credit college programming where they can earn college certificates and an associate degree, all while still in high school. These academic experiences and our comprehensive Work Based Learning give CCA students the skills and credentials to succeed in Connecticut’s most critical industries.”

Dr. Charles Hewes, Deputy Commissioner for Academics and Innovation, CT State Department of Education receives a tour of the Regional Learning Center from CCA Manufacturing Engineering students.

The CCA program, now serving 70 students from across eight school districts in its first year, is designed to offer pathways in both Manufacturing Engineering and Education. These pathways are aligned with local workforce demands and Connecticut’s strategic initiatives, ensuring students are well-prepared for high-demand careers in the Northwest Region and beyond.

“It's not just about preparing students for college or the workforce—but equipping them to be well-rounded critical thinkers who are ready for whatever comes next. CCA’s commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and independent thinking really stood out to us. We could see how these values would help Ryan succeed, not just in high school or college, but in life,” shared Nicole Mannetti, whose son Ryan, is a freshman enrolled in the program.

Brett Fiore, College & Career Accelerator Principal and Regional Learning Center Director, highlighted the significance of the program: “This initiative is about more than just providing students with education. It’s about shaping their futures and strengthening the workforce pipeline in Connecticut. We are proud to offer students an opportunity to succeed while helping meet the workforce needs of our community.”

The College and Career Accelerator is closely aligned with Governor Lamont’s Workforce Council priorities, which emphasize collaboration between K-12 and postsecondary institutions to create accessible and equitable educational pathways. The program also supports the Governor’s Workforce Strategic Plan, particularly through its development of a manufacturing sector-based career pathway that can be expanded statewide.

Learn more about EdAdvance’s College and Career Accelerator Program: https://cca.edadvance.org