Albany Technical College pushes for funding for Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center

ALBANY, Ga. – The old Albany Youth Detention Center on Newton Road could be getting a serious change in the next couple of years as Albany Technical College is pushing for funding to turn it into a training center for veterans.

We sat down with Albany Technical College President, Dr. Emmett Griswold Thursday afternoon about the push for the $17.2 million project.

“It’s a center that is dedicated to training veterans that are in the area. Not only veterans, but active duty military who may be discharging within six months or so. It gives them the opportunity to receive some short term training to help their transition back into the real world,” said Dr. Emmett Griswold, President, Albany Technical College.

The official name is a Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center or VECTR…

At this time only two VECTRs operate in the state of Georgia, with the nearest one being in Warner Robins.

Dr. Griswold wants to make sure veterans aren’t going to have to drive over 100 miles away for education.

“So, we’re trying to ask and requesting funding to have one in Southwest Georgia, and we believe we have the capabilities and opportunities here at Albany Technical College to provide the service to veterans not only living in the area, but to attract other veterans to come and seek training at Albany Technical College…” said Dr. Emmett Griswold, President, Albany Technical College.

And, given the long-standing partnership between Albany Tech and the nearby Marine Corps Logistics Base, Dr. Griswold wants to uphold how well the school treats those who serve.

“They are supportive of this project as well. Col. Mckinney, Sgt. Major Chad Coston, all the top brass of the MCLB have been supportive of this endeavor. And, also some of the retired individuals in this town…” said Dr. Griswold.

While work won’t start until after the legislative session begins in 2024, Dr. Griswold wants to make the training center a reality to give back to veterans.

The Albany Youth Detention Center where the proposed VECTR center would be built was closed down more than six years ago.

Brian Roche reporting.

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