In a significant boost for workforce development in the construction sector, High Plains Farm Credit has stepped up to the plate with a generous $50,000 donation to Fort Hays Tech North Central (NC) for its new Construction Programs Building. This facility is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a vital resource aimed at expanding opportunities for students pursuing careers in construction technology, electrical technology, plumbing, heating and air conditioning (PHAC), and commercial driver’s license (CDL) training.
But the good news doesn’t stop there. CoBank, a cooperative bank with a focus on rural America, has matched that donation, bringing the total contribution to an impressive $100,000. This collaborative effort underscores a growing trend in the construction industry: the importance of partnerships between educational institutions and financial organizations. The infusion of funds is earmarked for a nearly 30,000-square-foot building that promises to be a game-changer. With updated classrooms, advanced workshop areas, and cutting-edge tools and equipment, Fort Hays Tech NC is gearing up to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers in construction and technical fields.
Eric Burks, President of Fort Hays Tech NC, expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “We are incredibly grateful to High Plains Farm Credit and CoBank for their generosity and support of our mission. This investment not only advances our efforts to provide first-class technical training, but also strengthens the skilled workforce our local economy depends on.” This sentiment echoes a broader recognition within the industry that investing in education is investing in the future.
Kevin Swayne, CEO of High Plains Farm Credit, highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying, “High Plains Farm Credit is committed to investing in the future of our community. By supporting Fort Hays Tech NC’s Construction Programs Building, we are helping to ensure that students have access to quality education that will prepare them for successful careers in fields that are critically needed in our community.” His words reflect a growing consciousness among financial institutions about their role in fostering local talent.
CoBank’s Travis Ball echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the impact of the new facility: “CoBank is honored to support Fort Hays Tech North Central’s new Construction Programs Building alongside High Plains Farm Credit. This facility represents a tremendous investment in the future of our communities by providing essential training for the skilled trades that drive local economies.”
As construction on the new building progresses, with completion targeted for fall 2025, the implications are clear. This initiative not only addresses current workforce shortages but also prepares the next generation of skilled tradespeople who will be integral to economic growth. The construction sector is witnessing a paradigm shift, where educational institutions and financial partners are stepping up to pave the way for a more robust workforce.
For those interested in supporting this transformative project, Fort Hays Tech NC welcomes donations and inquiries, reinforcing the idea that community involvement is crucial in shaping the future of skilled trades. As this new facility takes shape, it serves as a testament to the power of collaboration in driving forward the construction industry and ensuring that local economies thrive.
