PRESS RELEASE
DATE: January 20, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Mandy Weidman, SVP Sales & Operations Manager
PHONE: (541) 389-1058
COBA Announces Contribution to COCC Skilled Trades Program
(Bend) – The Central Oregon Builders Association (COBA) announces the grant donation of $108,000 to COCC’s Skilled Trades Pre-Apprenticeship program. This donation was presented to the COCC Apprenticeship Program on Thursday, January 19th, at COBA’s Annual Excellence Award Event.
Gary North, Vice President of R&H Construction and current COBA Board President, said, “In a time when more people are retiring than getting into the trades, investments like these are critical for the future of our workforce. Thank you to the many members of COBA that have been pushing for these programs behind the scenes.”
COBA understands the need to invest in the building & construction workforce as 13,000 construction workers are needed in Oregon to create a housing production surge.
“We are proud to be able to make this donation to COCC, who will facilitate the much-needed education for our construction industry,” said Tim Knopp, Executive Vice President. COBA has been actively working with various organizations to provide support to the local construction industry and encourage people to get into the trades. This donation, with the help of federal and county partners, will go directly to assisting construction education and underserved communities.
Michael Fisher, Instructional Dean for COCC, said, “COBA’s funding award is a major investment in COCC’s commitment to expanding the skilled trades in rural areas of Central Oregon. We will be able to bring equipment, materials, and hands-on learning into different communities while supporting our region’s employers.”
COBA has announced the promotion of Mandy Weidman to Senior Vice President of Operations & Sales Manager. With five years of experience at COBA, Mandy is now overseeing two departments and a large portion of the association’s budget, reflecting the trust COBA has in her leadership.
COBA has announced the winners of its 2019 Excellence Awards, celebrating the region’s top builders, designers, suppliers, and community members. The prestigious awards were presented on January 16, 2020, at the Bend Golf Club.
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COBA announces the 7th Annual Chefs on Tour event on July 10, showcasing six homes from top builders in the region, paired with local chefs. Tickets are available for this exclusive event, offering a first look at the featured homes before the 2019 Tour of Homes.
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