Students urge Seattle Colleges to keep carpentry program building

April 11, 2026 - 08:46

Despite assurances from Seattle Colleges that the Wood Technology Center is not currently for sale, a wave of concern from students and labor representatives filled a recent board of trustees meeting. The passionate turnout underscored deep-seated fears about the potential displacement of the critical carpentry and woodworking program.

The center, a cornerstone for trades education in the region, trains future carpenters and union members. Advocates argue that losing the dedicated building would not only disrupt instruction but also deal a significant blow to the local construction workforce pipeline. Students emphasized the unique, hands-on learning environment the facility provides, which cannot be easily replicated in a generic classroom setting.

While administrators reiterated they have no active plan to sell the property, they acknowledged ongoing discussions about the long-term use of all district facilities. This statement did little to quell the anxiety. Union representatives and learners called for stronger, more binding commitments to secure the program's future in its current home, highlighting its role in fostering skilled, family-wage careers and meeting the city's growing construction demands. The board listened to the testimony but took no immediate action, leaving the community vigilant about the program's fate.