Cowley College Breaks Ground on New Career and Technical Education Center

Cowley College is thrilled to announce the groundbreaking of its state-of-the-art Career and Technical Education Center, marking a significant milestone in the college's commitment to providing cutting-edge technical educational opportunities to students.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, was attended by esteemed community members, distinguished guests, faculty, staff, and students, who gathered to witness the commencement of this project. The new building will house the 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 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 college was awarded four million dollars with a fifty 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 Arkansas City.

Fundraising for the project is ongoing as the college just reached the $1.7 million mark thanks to generous 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. 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.

President Dr. Schoon expressed her excitement about the groundbreaking, stating, "This Career and Technical Education Center represents our unwavering commitment to preparing students for the challenges of the 21st-century workforce. 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 cowley.edu or contact 800.593.2222.

About Cowley College:

Cowley College is a leading educational institution dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education to students. With a wide range of academic programs, dedicated faculty, and a vibrant learning community, Cowley College prepares students for success in their careers and beyond.

Media Contact:

Abby Morris
Director of Marketing & Strategic Communications
620-441-6503
abby.morris@cowley.edu