United Technologies Center proudly recognizes Gracie Baker, a 2022 UTC Law Enforcement graduate, who today (5/9) earned her Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Eastern Maine Community College (EMCC). A proven leader, innovator, and scholar, Gracie’s journey is a testament to what hard work and vision can accomplish—and she’s only just getting started.
Gracie’s post-secondary story began with a bang. Just weeks after graduating from Hampden Academy and UTC, she represented the State of Maine at the SkillsUSA National Criminal Justice competition in Atlanta, Georgia. Gracie not only stepped onto a national stage—she owned it, earning the Bronze Medal and making Maine proud.
At EMCC, Gracie continued to shine. Known for her sharp intellect and unmatched drive, she quickly became a leader in the Criminal Justice program, earning an internship with the Penobscot County District Attorney’s Office. Before even starting the internship, Gracie’s initiative and professionalism secured her a paid clerical role within the office—an impressive feat for any student, let alone one just entering her second year.
It was during this experience that Gracie’s career trajectory shifted. Originally set on becoming a patrol officer, she made the difficult decision to pursue law school—a choice grounded in her deep desire to make a broader impact.
True to form, Gracie didn’t just plan her future—she shaped it for others. Identifying a gap in transfer options for criminal justice students aiming for a Juris Doctorate, Gracie spearheaded a new 3+3 pathway: 2 years at EMCC, 1 year at the University of Maine at Augusta (UMA), and 3 years at the University of Maine School of Law. Thanks to her work, future students will have a clearer, more affordable path to a law degree.
“If you know Gracie, you know she’s always doing something epically amazing,” said her former instructor, Adam Demarest. “She’s the kind of student who doesn’t wait for change—she creates it. She continues to support our program as a member of our advisory committee. She provides so much great input, having experienced our program and moved on, she has a first-hand understanding of what I can do to make a better program for future students, bridging that gap. I can’t wait to see what she does next.”
UTC is proud to celebrate Gracie Baker—SkillsUSA Medalist, future attorney, and trailblazer for criminal justice students across Maine.