Northern Maine Community College Receives Nearly $2 Million in Federal Funding for Electrical and Nursing Training Programs

Northern Maine Community College has received nearly $2 million in federal funding to expand and modernize workforce training programs in industrial electrical technology and nursing as part of the federal budget package signed by President Donald Trump.

The funding includes $1.3 million to support workforce training through equipment purchases and program development for industrial electrical and instrumentation technicians, a field with strong demand across northern Maine's manufacturing and energy sectors. By enhancing hands-on learning and updating instructional resources, the initiative prepares students for high-demand careers while supporting economic growth and workforce stability in the region.

The college also received $650,000 to support its academic nursing program. The funding allows NMCC to purchase advanced labor and delivery simulation equipment that will significantly enhance hands-on instruction by closely replicating modern clinical settings.

Through this CDS-supported initiative, nursing students gain critical, real-world experience that strengthens clinical readiness and supports a smooth transition into the healthcare workforce, while helping address ongoing regional workforce shortages.

"This investment strengthens NMCC's ability to deliver hands-on training in fields where employers are actively seeking skilled workers," said Doug Binsfeld, president of Northern Maine Community College. "Modern equipment and realistic simulation experiences are critical to preparing our students for the demands of today's workforce and supporting economic growth in northern Maine."

The funding was secured with the support of U.S. Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King and is part of a $19.4 million federal investment in facilities, equipment, and program development across Maine's seven community colleges.

Statewide, the funding supports projects ranging from student housing and nursing labs to logging, electrical, and heat pump training equipment, benefiting students at every Maine community college.