WATERVILLE (AP) — A Massachusetts-based consulting company is partnering with the state and Colby College to open a center that’ll create up to 200 jobs in Waterville, Colby President David Greene announced Wednesday.

Collaborative Consulting, an information technology company, plans to hire the first 20 workers in January in its Collaborative Waterville offices in the Hathaway Creative Center.

Maine Gov. Paul LePage said the investment represents part of new chapter of revitalization in the city where he served as mayor before being elected to the Blaine House.

“These jobs are high-paying careers that will benefit families and the community for years to come,” he said in a statement.

Collaborative Consulting leaders were attracted by a partnership spearheaded by Colby College.

CEO William Robichaud said the company chose Waterville based on the combination of community, workforce and educational infrastructure “focused on innovation.”

The company aims to have 50 employees in a year and up to 200 employees over the next two to three years.