Cowley College held a groundbreaking of its state-of-the-art Career and Technical Education Center Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the college’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technical educational opportunities to students, a press release from the college said.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by community members, guests, faculty, staff, and students.
The new building will house Criminal Justice and Cosmetology, as well as allow for the expansion of the existing welding program and two new programs yet to be developed.
“The Career and Technical Education Center will serve as a hub for collaboration, fostering partnerships between the college, local businesses, and industry leaders to meet the high demand and critical shortage of the workforce,” the college said. “The vision for the project began in February of 2022 with a proposal made by the college for the Strengthening People and Revitalization Kansas (SPARK) grant; part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).”
The American Rescue Plan Act — a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus package — was passed by Congress in 2021 and signed by President Joe Biden later that year.
Congressman Ron Estes, whose district includes Cowley County, voted against the American Rescue Plan Act, along with both Kansas Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall.
The college was awarded $4 million with a 50-percent match. The site location was identified and the college was able to acquire the land adjacent to the current technology building, thanks to a partnership with the City of Ark City, Cowley said.
Fundraising for the project is ongoing as the college just reached the $1.7 million mark thanks to donors to the Cowley College Foundation.
“Cowley College is deeply grateful to its donors, community members, and stakeholders who have contributed to the realization of this groundbreaking project,” the college said. “Their unwavering support and dedication to fostering educational excellence have been instrumental in creating this state-of-the-art center.
“This facility is a significant investment in the future of Cowley College’s students and the community at large. By providing access to high-quality career and technical education, the center will create a pipeline of skilled professionals who will drive economic growth, innovation, and success in the region.”
Cowley College President Dr. Schoon said the new facility readies the college for the future.
“This Career and Technical Education Center represents our unwavering commitment to preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century workforce,” Schoon said. “We are immensely grateful for the support of our community and partners, who have made this vision a reality specifically the Cowley College Board of Trustees, our State Politicians, Agora Architecture, Conco Construction, and various faculty and staff who continue to contribute to the design of the new facility.”
Construction of the Career and Technical Education Center is anticipated to be completed by July of 2024 to open in time for the 2024 – 2025 academic year.
For more information about Cowley College’s Career and Technical Education Center programs, please visit cowely.edu or contact 800.593.2222
