TCAT construction update
LISA HOBBS - News Editor
The TCAT McMinnville Replacement Campus resembles its architectural design, as work inches closer to completion.
“We are just super excited,” said TCAT McMinnville President Dr. Melody Edmonds, who provided an update on the progress. “We will have the space, have the technology, have upgraded electrical and all that we need to have the state-of-the-art equipment that industries want us to have and to train our students on, and what students need to know in order to be employable. We are just super excited.”
Construction is being overseen by Batten Shaw Construction, which Edmonds says is doing an excellent job. The architect was Bauer Askew.
While the final completion is scheduled for the summer of 2027, students and staff will slowly move in and occupy the new space as construction continues.
“This project is different than most. With most, you’re done when you’re done. With this one, they are going to give us temporary certificates of occupancy, so we are going to move in in phases, so it’s not all going to be completed at once and be moved in.”
The project is a multi-phased expansion designed to enhance and modernize the existing technical education facilities. The project involved constructing a new building that wraps around the occupied campus, requiring extensive coordination and preplanning with campus leadership to ensure safety and minimize disruption to daily operations.
“Even when we do move in, the work won’t be complete. They’ve still got to tear down this building and construct a courtyard and some parking. So, it really won’t be done until April of 2027.”
It will be the end of an era when the 60-year-old building is quietly demolished behind the scenes.
“It wasn’t possible for anybody back then to envision what is needed for now. That’s just not possible. This building has served us very well, and we were thankful for it. It’s time to do something different and look into the next phase.”
TCAT McMinnville provides certificates and diplomas in multiple technical fields, including Automotive Technology, Industrial Maintenance, Advanced Manufacturing Technician, Welding Technology, Building Construction Technology, Cosmetology, Cosmetology Instructor, Truck Driving, Computer Information Technology, Massage Therapy, Reflexology, Practical Nursing, Residential/Commercial/Industrial Electricity, Machine Tool Technology.
“We will be adding an HVAC in the fall,” said Edmonds. “Hopefully, not too far down the road, we can offer a Powerline Construction course or something similar.”
The new facility will be 65,000 square feet.