McDowell Technical Community College announced today that the Professional Construction Estimators Association (PCEA) has donated $15,000 to strengthen the college’s Construction Trades programs, helping train the next generation of skilled construction professionals. McDowell Tech will further enhance hands-on learning experiences for students, including high school outreach efforts using mobile training units, and to develop new coursework aligned with industry needs.
“This donation from PCEA helps our instructors give students real-world training with the tools and equipment they’ll use on the job,” said Madalyn Gaito, McDowell Tech Director of Development. “We are grateful for their support of our growing Construction Trades programs.”
Founded in 1956 and based in Charlotte, the PCEA is dedicated to promoting estimating as a profession and supporting educational programs that prepare students for careers in the construction industry. Funds for the donation were raised through annual golf tournaments and clay shoots hosted by the PCEA Charlotte chapter, led by chapter president Tim Marsh and education chair Peter Martinez. Martinez, who is Director of Pre-Construction for Benco Construction, a multi-family builder based in Charlotte, NC, presented the donation to the college.
The decision to award the donation to MTCC grew from conversations about the ongoing shortage of skilled trade workers and the importance of preparing students for careers in construction estimating—one of the most critical and challenging roles in the industry.
Dr. J.W. Kelley, President of McDowell Technical Community College, expressed his appreciation for the generous gift. “This investment from PCEA is a powerful statement of confidence in our students and programs. It helps us expand opportunities in the construction trades and ensures that our graduates are prepared to meet the workforce needs of our region. Together, we’re building a stronger future for our community.”
PCEA’s donation to McDowell Tech reflects the shared mission to invest in workforce development by training estimators and trade professionals who are essential to rebuilding our communities and advancing the construction industry.
To partner with McDowell Tech, ensuring the success of economic development and a strong workforce, visit the MTCC Foundation at https://mcdowelltech.edu/foundation-mtcc/.
