The opening of the Drummond Center for Innovation (HDCI), a major new state-of-the-art career and technical education hub in Walker County, has been delayed until next month. The 125,000 sq. ft. facility, located within the industrial park, was expected to open with the beginning of the new school year but construction delays have pushed back the opening until after Labor Day.
Workforce Development
The $100 million facility is replacing the current Walker County Center of Technology in Jasper. It is considered one of the most significant workforce investments in Walker County’s history and is jointly funded by federal and state grants, a $1 million contribution from the City of Jasper, and a $500,000 challenge grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham.
Some 900 students will be led by some 100 faculty members in simulated industrial environments across fields such as advanced manufacturing & welding, health sciences & healthcare technology, construction trades & industrial maintenance, automotive technology, cybersecurity & IT, robotics & engineering, and broadcasting, communications, and digital media.
These programs include industry-recognized certifications, dual enrollment with Bevil State Community College, and paid internships or apprenticeships according to the City of Jasper website. The goal for the HDCI is to create a seamless pathway from high school to the workforce, with good salaries, provide long-term regional economic growth, and help keep young people from moving away for a quality job.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
