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In 1991, the 115th Maine Legislature established a commission to study the need for a technical college in York County. Subsequent studies, including one conducted in 1994 by the Department of Labor, of 4,300 employers, confirmed that industries needed a better-trained workforce. Studies also revealed that Wells was the most central location for the main campus.
Established in 1994 by the 116th Maine Legislature, York County Community College (originally know as York County Technical College) was a grass roots college from local business and industry individuals who identified a new for technical college. A group of York County business leaders met informally to discuss a need that had become apparent and it was clear that York County, among the state's fastest growing counties, needed a technical college.
On September 5, 1995, YCTC opened its doors in a leased facility in Wells with 156 students and three associate degrees and two certificate programs. Today, the college has grown to an annual enrollment of 925 students and serves an additional 1,100 students annually through continuing education and workshops.
In December of 1995, YCTC received candidacy accreditation status from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and in 1999 the College was awarded full accreditation status.
In February of 1996, the US Department of Education grants approval for YCTC to offer Federal Financial Aid, which makes affordable education an option for many.
In May 1996, YCTC graduated its first class with seven students receiving certificates. Now, the college has graduated over 400 individuals in degree and certificate programs.
In February 1997, ground is broken on a permanent 51,000 square-foot building and on November 3, 1997, classes begin in the new building with over 500 students enrolled in 15 programs.
In November 1999, the College receives $4.3 million from a bond to expand the college facilities. In October 2000, ground is broken on a 26,000 square-foot addition to its current building. In October 2001, the college officially opens its new addition to the building and expands it facility to 77,000 square-feet.
In July 2003, YCTC becomes York County Community College as the state's technical colleges expanded its mission to a true community college where people in Maine will have an increased access to college which will ultimately improve incomes, enhance skills, and strengthen Maine's economy.
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