The IYRS School of Technology and Trades breaks ground Friday on a new addition to its Newport campus. The facility will house a composite submarine systems program. IYRS started as a yacht restoration school but has recently expanded to train workers for other types of manufacturing jobs. IYRS’ Jill Levin coordinated the capital campaign for new building.
“I think it’s important because there is a working waterfront and it’s disappearing and for us to be able to recreate and continue this working waterfront here in Newport,” said Levin.
When complete, the IYRS building will create 20,000 square feet of classroom space on the Newport waterfront. Levin said the added capacity will be necessary.
“Marine trades have always been a core base for Rhode Island industry,” said Levin. “We’ve also seen a heightened demand for people going into the trades.” Levin added the school is now placing some 90 percent of its graduates in jobs. Elected officials, including Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Jack Reed, plan to attend the groundbreaking ceremony.
