Key Takeaways:
- Jackson College is opening a new Applied Technology Center on February 16, 2026, to train future utility and HVAC professionals.
- The center features state-of-the-art facilities, including flexible learning spaces and real-world training environments.
- The programs offered at the center are designed to meet critical industry needs and prepare students for in-demand careers.
- The center is a result of collaboration between education and industry partners to support regional workforce and economic development.
- The facility includes outdoor training areas, program "bay" areas, and indoor spaces for hands-on training.
Introduction to the Applied Technology Center
The Jackson College community is excited to announce the upcoming opening of the new Applied Technology Center, scheduled to take place on February 16, 2026. The center is designed to train future utility and HVAC professionals, addressing the growing demand for reliable utility services and the need for skilled workers in the industry. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. and will include brief remarks and light refreshments. This event marks a significant milestone in the college’s efforts to support workforce development and prepare students for in-demand careers.
The Need for Skilled Workers
As communities face the challenges of aging infrastructure and increasing demand for reliable utility services, Jackson College is positioning itself at the forefront of workforce development. The college’s utility and HVAC-R programs are designed to meet critical industry needs and provide students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in these fields. The Applied Technology Center is a testament to the college’s commitment to supporting regional workforce and economic development. By providing students with access to modern equipment, real-world training environments, and clear pathways into essential careers, the center is helping to address the shortage of skilled workers in the industry.
About the Applied Technology Center
The new Applied Technology Center is a state-of-the-art facility that represents a significant step forward in advancing Jackson College’s mission to support regional workforce and economic development. Developed in collaboration with key industry partners, the center features flexible, innovative learning spaces that provide hands-on, real-world training opportunities. The facility includes two program "bay" areas, one with an extra-tall roof to accommodate indoor utility poles, as well as an outdoor training area that supports a variety of utility work, including burying cables and operating a bucket truck. This unique design allows students to gain practical experience in a simulated work environment, preparing them for the challenges they will face in their future careers.
Industry Partnerships and Support
The Applied Technology Center is a result of collaboration between education and industry partners, demonstrating the importance of partnerships in supporting workforce development. The center has received support from several industry partners, including Lester Brothers, Hydrolake Inc., MacAllister, Inc., Buckingham Manufacturing, Milwaukee Tool, Johnstone Supply, and Amatrol. These partners will be participating in the Industry Open House, which will take place after the ribbon-cutting ceremony, providing an opportunity for college and community members to tour the new facility and learn more about the programs offered. The support of these industry partners is a testament to the center’s potential to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in their chosen careers.
Programs and Opportunities
The Applied Technology Center will offer a range of programs, including the Energy Systems Associate Degree, Utilities Technician, and HVAC Technician Certificate. These programs are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the utility and HVAC industries. The center’s flexible learning spaces and real-world training environments will provide students with hands-on experience, preparing them for high-demand careers. With the support of industry partners and the college’s commitment to workforce development, the Applied Technology Center is poised to make a significant impact on the regional workforce and economy. As Dr. Daniel J. Phelan, Jackson College President, noted, "This building is about opportunity: building talent, strengthening local industry, and helping Jackson County thrive for decades to come."
Conclusion and Next Steps
The opening of the Applied Technology Center marks an exciting new chapter in Jackson College’s history, and the college invites the community to join in celebrating this milestone. The ribbon-cutting ceremony and Industry Open House provide an opportunity for community members to learn more about the center and its programs. With its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to workforce development, the Applied Technology Center is an important investment in the future of the region. As the center begins to offer classes in the upcoming weeks, it is clear that this facility will play a critical role in shaping the future of the utility and HVAC industries in the region.
