Assemblyman Phil Ramos (D-Central Islip) announced the grand opening of the satellite technology lab in Brentwood. Ramos helped secure $1 million in funding for the State University of New York and the Long Island Educational Opportunity Center (L.I.E.O.C.) to establish a satellite technology lab.

"It’s great that this project has become a reality. Our community’s families will now have access to technology they otherwise would not have," Ramos said. "The programs and equipment provided at the lab will enhance job skills and provide working families with the tools they need to succeed in a high-tech work place."

The lab is approximately 500 square feet and will accommodate 24 state-of-the-art workstations, including interactive, multi-media software for 30 + programs in academic and workforce development areas. Staff will be present to offer assistance at the computer lab.

"In the very near future, approximately 80 percent of all newly create jobs are expected to require knowledge of technology. Therefore, by placing the computer labs in the community, we are creating technical parity for those who don’t have access to computers," stated Mr. Vijay Macwan, Executive Director of University Center for Academic & Workforce Development.

"This lab is a huge benefit to both the students and the community. It will enable students and residents of the community to increase the likelihood of becoming economically self-sufficient, promote economic development in the community by linking residents with business, institutions and services, and foster academic skills that students need to succeed later in life," stated Dr. Veronica Henry, Dean/Director of the Educational Opportunity Center, Farmingdale State University.

"Preparing families for the future is certainly one of my priorities," Ramos said. "And now, thanks to this lab, our community’s working families will have access to the necessary technology and resources to learn the skills needed to get better-paying jobs."

The lab is located at: ATTAIN Lab, 1090-A Suffolk Avenue, Brentwood. For more information call 434-3740.