The recent donation to the Northland Career Center capital campaign further solidifies KCHBA’s commitment to building the next generation of skilled labor for the local workforce. The donation by the Home Builders Charitable Foundation will go toward the construction of NCC’s new facility, the Northland Workforce Development Center (NWDC).
Brian Noller, Executive Director of Business Services for the Platte County R-3 School District and Campaign Lead for NWDC says that the investment means a lot to them and will strengthen their longtime partnership. “KCHBA has provided so much to our students, including construction concepts and awarding scholarships to NCC graduates.”
Meet some current NCC students who are studying architecture, electrical, and construction.
Construction Technology Instructor Jacob Blankenship said the new building will mean shorter waiting lists for students to get into programs. “We will be able to add electrical and plumbing classes and labs. This means more students will get the training to fill in-demand jobs in the skilled trades.”
The NCC has run six very successful skilled trades programs over the years, across three clusters of architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and transportation. The NCC has a total of 12 career-focused programs.
Ability to Train Thousands More Students
Noller explained that the planned $74 million, 145,000 square foot center will add all the potential growth and technology in more of a centralized Northland location. “It will be located half a mile north of 152 Highway, in the center of Clay and Platte Counties. We are lucky to have such a great location. If all goes as planned, we are looking at opening in 2027.”
He notes the vast amount of construction occurring throughout the Kansas City area, and especially in the Northland. “Skilled trades workers will be needed across the board to get these projects done.”
Plans call for the center to have programming for younger students starting at fifth grade, and for adult learners. “Our vision is for the center to transform this community in a lot of positive ways.”
NCC Director Jeff Green added that “NCC graduates will add quality skilled trades workers to our communities and beyond. We continue to be thankful for the support of KCHBA and look forward to many more years working together.”
How the Community can Support this Project
The state of Missouri has already committed $37 million toward the center. “We have already raised about $6 million locally and the state will match donations dollar for dollar,” Noller explained. “This is an investment in the future workforce that the community desperately needs, and everyone can help to make it a reality. ”
Visit the NCC Capital Campaign webpage to learn more, view the project plans and updates, stay informed, and get investment details.
One response to “KCHBA Donates $50,000 to the Northland Career Center Capital Campaign”
Testing the comment notification email, let me know if you get this.