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MCC News

Rochester Area Auto Dealers’ Drive Future Automotive Success

March 2, 2026

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — February 28, 2026 – Monroe Community College (MCC) and the Monroe Community College Foundation announced that the Rochester Automobile Dealers Association (RADA) led a consortium of regional automotive partners in making a $1 million collective investment to support the Sydor Optics Advanced Technology Center (ATC).  The funds will be used to name multiple instructional and student-facing automotive spaces in the ATC to strengthen hands-on automotive education, advance workforce development, and ensure students are trained with industry-relevant technologies. They include:

  • Rochester Automobile Dealers Association Wing — naming of the exterior Automotive Entrance, recognizing RADA’s leadership and convening role.
  • Alternative Fuel Automotive Lab — sponsored by the Rochester Area Cadillac Dealers, advancing training in emerging fuel technologies.
  • General Motors Automotive Lab — sponsored by Rochester Area Chevrolet Dealers, reinforcing manufacturer-aligned instruction.
  • Toyota Automotive Lab — sponsored by Rochester Area Toyota Dealers, supporting career pathways tied to Toyota technologies.
  • Multi-Manufacturer Automotive Lab — sponsored by regional dealers representing Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, and Subaru, providing experience across diverse vehicle platforms.

The $69 million, 110,000-square-foot Sydor Optics Advanced Technology Center at the Brighton Campus, scheduled to open in Fall 2026, is funded through joint state and county support. $34 million in New York State investment led by Governor Kathy Hochul, combined with over $34 million from Monroe County, led by County Executive Adam Bello and the County Legislature, includes a federal grant of more than $3.5 million initiated by Congressman Joe Morelle. Named in recognition of the Sydor family’s contributions to MCC, the new facility will advance MCC’s technology programs with hands-on training in optical systems, precision tooling, HVAC service, automotive technology, and renewable energy in a new solar lab. It will replace the current facility on West Henrietta Road.

Brad McAreavy, Rochester Automobile Dealers Association (RADA) President, said, “This collective investment reflects our shared commitment as a community to strengthen the skilled workforce our automotive industry depends on. We’re proud to partner with MCC to ensure students train on the latest technologies and graduate ready to step directly into in-demand careers.”

Dr. DeAnna R. Burt-Nanna, Monroe Community College President, said, “At MCC, we lead with partnerships that reflect our core mission — serving the entire community. What we value most about our relationship with RADA and regional auto leaders is their shared commitment to opportunity, inclusivity, and ensuring every student has a pathway into a thriving career.”

Dr. Robin Cole Jr., Monroe Community College Vice President of Economic and Workforce Development and Career Technical Education, said, “Our Automotive Technician program has high job placement, with more than 200 openings each year and graduates earning strong starting wages. This investment strengthens our pipeline and ensures students train on the most advanced technologies available.”

Gretchen Wood, Monroe Community College Vice President of Institutional Advancement and MCC Foundation’s Executive Director, said, “This is how strong programs grow — through meaningful community investment and partnership. RADA has supported MCC automotive students through scholarships for years, and we’re honored to see this partnership continue to flourish.”

Monroe Community College
Monroe Community College (MCC), based in Monroe County, New York, was founded in 1961 and is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) System. With four main campuses, MCC offers more than 100 degree, credit, and non-credit programs. MCC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), is a member of the League of Innovation in the Community College, and is one of ten community colleges participating in the Aspen College Institute’s Unlocking Opportunity: The Post-Graduation Success and Equity Network.

The Monroe Community College Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt not-for-profit organization. The Monroe Community College Foundation seeks philanthropic investment to advance achievement, innovation, and the mission of excellence at the College. Visit the MCC Foundation website for more information about available scholarships and how to contribute.

The Rochester Automotive Dealers Association, founded in the early 1900s, consists of automotive dealers from Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes, committed to maintaining the community’s economic vitality by keeping their members profitable, employing thousands, and being a positive influence in Rochester.

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