The West Sound Technical Skills Center in Bremerton, Washington, recently celebrated the completion of Phase 1 of a modernization and expansion of the original 1970s-era warehouse facility. The project, initiated in 2023, was designed by Bassetti Architects, a Design Studio of HMC Architects. The center is an innovative educational cooperative that provides advanced career and technical education (CTE) programs to students from 10 school districts across the Olympic Peninsula (Bremerton, Central Kitsap, Chimacum, North Kitsap, North Mason, Peninsula, Quilcene, Bainbridge Island, South Kitsap, and Port Townsend).

Speakers at the event included Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler, West Sound Tech Director Ryan Nickels, former Director Shani Watkins, Bremerton School District Superintendent Dr. Slade McSheehy, instructor Tony Sharpe, and Andersen Construction Senior Superintendent Chad Furstenwerth. Attending the ceremony from Bassetti Architects were Design Principal Michael Davis, Theresa Barnett, Kim Young, Steve Zang, Michelle Yates, Jewel Romero and Connie Zheng.

The project expanded the campus with approximately 104,000 square-feet of new construction, including new learning spaces, an efficient reduction in circulation space, site improvements, upgraded systems and infrastructure. Portions of the existing building were demolished and rebuilt, and the project enhanced bus circulation, separated vehicle parking, and included stormwater mitigation, new utility connections, and frontage improvements. Because the initial project exceeded its budget by 10 percent and the initial design failed to meet client requirements, the owner engaged Bassetti Architects to streamline the design and realign the project successfully with budget, schedule and client expectations.

West Sound Tech provides opportunities for students ages 16–21 or in grades 11 and 12 to attend advanced CTE programs through the public education system at no cost. The skills and training offered at the center prepare students for advanced placement in apprenticeships, technical schools, and two- and four-year colleges and universities. Or they may go directly into entry-level positions in their chosen careers. In addition to individual advancement, this vital educational resource strengthens the area’s workforce and economy.

The two-phased project approach minimized disruption by allowing ongoing operations to continue on campus during renovations. Phase 2 of this modernization is anticipated for summer of 2027.