Congressman Patrick McHenry today announced a $1 million Economic Development grant is being awarded to Burke County and the Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) to construct the new Foothills Allied Health & Science Higher Education Center. The grant will support the renovation of a former manufacturing facility to house a new workforce training center.

“This $1 million grant is a huge win for our region on three fronts: more jobs, better healthcare, and increased private investment in our community,” said Congressman McHenry. “The creation of this higher education center will guarantee the economic future and healthcare in Burke County as well as the surrounding areas.”

The center will be used to train more than 500 students annually in the healthcare industry, which will create 220 jobs and generate more than $120 million in private investment.

“The College is proud to partner with Burke County to establish the Foothills Allied Health and Science Higher Education Center and is thankful for the financial support provided by the EDA,” said Dr. Jim W. Burnett, president of WPCC.

Since 2001, the number of individuals employed in Burke County’s healthcare field increased by 62% and the Blue Ridge Healthcare System plans to invest $75 to $100 million to expand its local healthcare services. This expansion will require employees with degrees and training currently unavailable in the region – thus making the center a regional necessity.

“This center will address the critical shortage of healthcare professionals in the local healthcare system as well as the need for advanced healthcare education among area residents,” added Dr. Burnett. “Western Piedmont Community College is committed to working with area employers, regional institutions of higher education, and governmental agencies to provide the best possible education for Burke County residents.”