A groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility, which will support programs in the fields of utilities, HVAC, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and Industry 4.0, will be held on Monday, February 17.
Jackson College has announced the establishment of a new facility that will provide the space and equipment needed to expand its abilities to train students for careers in utilities, HVAC, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and Industry 4.0. The Center for Applied Technologies will play a significant role in the region’s workforce development in these fields.
According to an article on Jackson College’s website, Daniel J. Phelan, the college’s president, was quoted as saying of the project, “The CAT building will support cutting-edge programs in Industry 4.0, Utility Technologies, and Professional Trades, providing students with the skills and expertise to meet the demands of our local employers and contribute to the economic vitality of our communities. This is an exciting milestone as we continue to innovate and invest in the future of education, workforce, and economic development.”
The Center for Applied Technologies is planned to be 15,000 square feet and will be built behind the Howser Child Development Center on the southeast corner of campus. Having a dedicated space for programs like HVAC, utilities, renewable energy and Industry 4.0 will allow the college to continue to expand its program offerings and develop the region’s workforce to prepare them for in demand careers.
Dean Jamie Vandenburgh said, “The CAT building represents our commitment to creating innovative spaces that adapt to evolving industry needs. By integrating flexibility into the design, we’re ensuring our students receive hands-on, industry-relevant training that prepares them for success in high-demand careers.”
Jackson College has reached out to important employers and organizations in these industries throughout its local area, and has received support from organizations like the Michigan Municipal Electric Association and the Michigan Workforce Training & Education Collaborative. Katie Abraham, who serves as the executive director of the MMEA, said, “As an organization that is pivotal within the utility sector through safety, training, and system restoration, we recognize the growing need for skilled professionals capable of tackling the challenges of modern infrastructure, energy systems, and municipal services. Jackson College’s vision to enhance hands-on learning opportunities, mainly through creating a pole yard and climbing space, aligns perfectly with these workforce needs. The addition of indoor and outdoor training facilities, combined with the advanced lab space in the Center for Applied Technologies (CAT) building, will undoubtedly position the College as a key partner in workforce development for the whole utility industry.”
The Center for Applied Technologies is planned to cost around $6.8 million, with the school selling $5.8 million in bonds toward the cost.
The groundbreaking ceremony, which will take place on Monday, February 17 at 5 p.m., will be held in the Jets Hangar.
For more information about Jackson College, visit the school’s website.