Northern Essex Community College-Whittier Technical High School Collaboration Study
February 2025
The UMass Donahue Institute completed a feasibility and planning study examining the potential for a shared campus between Northern Essex Community College (NECC) and Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School on NECC’s Haverhill campus. Using interviews, community input, and regional labor market and demographic data, the study assessed viable shared campus models and key considerations.
Community members generally recognize the potential benefits of a shared campus—particularly cost savings and the importance of career technical education—but expressed concerns about limited information, transparency, and how costs would affect taxpayers. UMDI recommends increased public communication to build understanding and trust, including clearer messaging about benefits, costs, and workforce value.
Based on the research and community feedback, UMDI recommends a collaborative shared campus model that allows NECC and Whittier Tech to maintain separate identities while sharing select facilities and services. While a fully integrated school model could also offer benefits, it would require significantly more planning and organizational change.
The study highlights important workforce trends, including a projected decline in the young adult population and growing demand in key sectors such as health care. Ensuring that academic and technical programs align with long‑term workforce needs will be critical. Overall, the report provides guidance, best practices, and data to support informed decision‑making as NECC and Whittier Tech consider next steps.
