CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE ANNOUNCES NEW FEDERAL FUNDING FOR MONROE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

(Rochester, N.Y.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle announced $850,000 in federal Community Project Funding he secured for Monroe Community College to establish a new Precision Optics Finishing Lab within the college's Advanced Technology Education Center, expanding workforce training opportunities in one of the Finger Lakes region's fastest-growing industries.

"Rochester has spent generations building a world-class reputation in optics and photonics, and today's investment helps ensure our community remains at the forefront of the industries shaping our future," said Congressman Joe Morelle. "This new Precision Optics Finishing Lab will give students, apprentices, and incumbent workers hands-on experience with the same advanced technologies used in precision optics and semiconductor manufacturing. I'm proud to have secured this funding because investing in our workforce means investing in Rochester's continued economic leadership."

“We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman Morelle for securing additional funding for Monroe Community College, reflecting his steadfast support for the College and its mission to transform lives and communities,” said Dr. DeAnna R. Burt-Nanna, Monroe Community College President. “This latest investment gives MCC another tool to grow its globally recognized optics program, known for training the best technicians to fill in-demand roles that have bolstered the Rochester and Finger Lakes Region’s position as a leader in optics and laser technology.”

Monroe Community College has long served as one of the region's leading workforce development institutions, partnering with local employers to prepare students for careers in high-demand industries. Through its Advanced Technology Education Center, MCC continues to respond to evolving workforce needs by providing hands-on training aligned with the technologies driving today's economy.

The $850,000 secured by Congressman Morelle will fund the acquisition and installation of equipment for a new Precision Optics Finishing Lab. The project will expand hands-on training opportunities using industry-standard tools and technologies commonly found in the manufacture of semiconductors and precision optical components. Students, apprentices, and incumbent workers will receive training in specialized optical skills—including coating techniques used in the production of semiconductor chips—helping build a stronger pipeline of highly skilled workers for employers across the Finger Lakes region.

The investment also supports the region's broader strategy to grow New York's optics, photonics, and advanced manufacturing economy. Rochester's internationally recognized expertise in these fields continues to attract major public and private investment through initiatives like the NY SMART-I Corridor and the National Science Foundation's STELLAR Regional Innovation Engine, creating new opportunities for workers and employers alike. By strengthening MCC's workforce training capacity, this project helps ensure local residents are prepared to seize those opportunities while giving businesses the talent they need to grow here at home.

Congressman Morelle, Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, secured this funding through the Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding process, which allows Members of Congress to direct federal investments toward locally identified projects that strengthen their communities and regional economies.

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