On Wednesday, November 19, RCC celebrated the graduation of its inaugural class from the Building Automation Systems (BAS) Smart Building Technology program. The on campus ceremony marked the completion of a groundbreaking workforce development initiative designed to prepare graduates for careers in the rapidly growing green technology sector. Seven students completed the intensive 450-hour non-credit certificate program, which equips participants with the technical skills needed to build, install, manage, and repair building automation systems.
“Graduates, you took on a program that demands discipline, sharp thinking, and a willingness to get your hands on real equipment and real systems. Building automation is not simple work. You have wired circuits, programmed sequences, troubleshot problems, and learned how modern buildings actually function. That is excellence in action, and you earned every part of this accomplishment.” said Dr. Jonathan K. Jefferson, President, Roxbury Community College
With over 21,800 job openings in the BAS field nationally and technology rapidly transforming how buildings operate, this program positions graduates at the forefront of the clean energy economy by creating pathways to well-paying careers for residents of Boston's historically underserved communities. Graduates are prepared for positions starting at $70,000 annually, with potential to earn up to $150,000 within five years.
“I had a transformational experience in the BAS 450 Program at RCC,” said student Pierre Charles Plaisir “The program deepened my passion for smart building technology and equipped me with the skills to pursue meaningful career opportunities that support a greener, more sustainable future for all.” Plaisir is an IT Specialist at IFSI-USA and will also be working as an instructor and lab assistant at RCC.
As Massachusetts pursues ambitious decarbonization goals and the demand for green technology professionals continues to surge, this graduation represents a significant step in addressing the state's workforce needs while advancing economic equity. The BAS program exemplifies Roxbury Community College's commitment as the Northeast's only Predominantly Black Institution (PBI) community college to create wealth-building opportunities for residents of Roxbury, Mattapan, and surrounding communities.
