Groundbreaking ceremony set for high-tech Automotive Technology Center
Pima plans $35 million expansion of Downtown Campus
November 13, 2019
Tucson, AZ -- Pima Community College will hold a ceremonial groundbreaking at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019, on the Downtown Campus for a $12.5 million Automotive Technology and Innovation Center.
- What:Groundbreaking Ceremony, Automotive Technology and Innovative Center
- When: 9:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019
- Where:1255 N. Stone Avenue on the far west side of campus (former location of the Fortuna Inn and Suites). Access from North Queen Avenue at Speedway, 10th Avenue from Drachman or West Helen Street from North Main Avenue.
The facility is the first planned in a $35 million expansion and renovation of the Campus at Stone and Speedway to support the College’s new Center of Excellence in Applied Technology.
“The Automotive Technology and Innovation Center is a tangible result of the commitment Pima Community College has made to serve our community’s workforce needs, provide students with state-of-the-art learning opportunities, and positively impact the economy of Tucson and the region,” said College Chancellor Lee D. Lambert.
The Auto Tech Center will house programs in automotive technology, diesel technology and electronic vehicle technology to meet the growing demand of dealerships and other employers for students certified in today’s technology. Pima has worked closely with employers to develop the concept for the center as well as the curriculum and related training.
The Center of Excellence in Applied Technology is one of six being developed by the College in partnership with industry to ensure seamless integration of education and training to meet workforce needs now and well into the future.
The Applied Technology Center will focus on transportation, logistics, advanced manufacturing, engineering, and a wide range of building and construction trades. Curriculum, internships, apprenticeships, customized training programs, and lifelong learning opportunities will build on industry collaboration.
Other Centers of Excellence focus on Health Professions, Information Technology, Public Safety and Security, the Arts, and Culinary and Hospitality.
The Automotive Technology and Innovation Center, designed by DLR Group, will feature an open, high-tech space that allows student and faculty interaction across disciplines and provides flexibility to adapt to future technology needs.
“DLR Group’s design features simulated labs that replicate real-world work environments where students will gain practical experience,” said DLR Group Senior Associate Jaime Garrido, AIA, LEED AP. “The prime central location in downtown Tucson will boost the city’s workforce and provide opportunities for qualified workers in local in-demand careers. It also will act as a catalyst to bring together partners in education, industry, and the community at large.”
The Automotive Technology and Innovation Center is scheduled to open in Spring 2021.
CONTACT:
Libby Howell, APR, Executive Director
Media, Government and Community Relations
(520) 206-4778, ehowell1@pima.edu