Clark College Foundation Receives $350,000 Murdock Charitable Trust Grant to Advance Manufacturing Education
Clark College Foundation is proud to announce a $350,000 grant from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust to purchase, in partnership with Clark College, state-of-the-art equipment for the college’s new Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC). This investment will enhance Clark’s capacity to train the next generation of highly skilled workers and meet the increasing demand for advanced manufacturing talent in Southwest Washington and beyond.
The grant, awarded in Summer 2025, will provide critical resources to outfit the AMC with cutting-edge tools and technology. This equipment will directly support expanded training opportunities in areas such as precision machining, welding, and fabrication, ensuring Clark students gain the hands-on experience necessary to thrive in high-demand industries.
“This generous investment from the Murdock Trust will transform how we prepare students for advanced manufacturing careers,” said Calen Ouellette, CEO of Clark College Foundation. “By equipping the Advanced Manufacturing Center with the best resources, we are creating pathways for students to succeed while supporting the economic vitality of our region.”
Advanced manufacturing is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the Pacific Northwest, with local employers consistently seeking skilled workers to fill critical roles. The AMC, which started its advanced manufacturing program this fall (2025), will serve as a hub for innovation and workforce development, bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry needs.
“The Murdock Trust is honored to support the vital work of Clark College Foundation in advancing education and opportunities for students,” says Angela Little, Program Officer for Scientific Research at the Murdock Trust. “We’re excited to see the impact of the Advanced Manufacturing Center, both in preparing students for successful careers and in strengthening the region’s workforce in a growing industry.”
The Advanced Manufacturing Center, situated on Clark College’s Boschma Farms campus in Ridgefield, is designed to serve as a regional hub for technical education. With the help of the Murdock Trust’s grant, the facility will empower students, strengthen partnerships with local industry, and contribute to long-term community and economic growth.