Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony Jan. 14 at 10 a.m. to celebrate the completion and opening of the Muscatine Technology Center (MTC).
Located on the Muscatine Community College (MCC) campus, this newly expanded facility adds more than 5,000 square feet of state-of-the-art lab and classroom space, significantly increasing capacity for EICC’s welding and advanced manufacturing programs. It houses MCC’s first CNC Machining program, opening this spring, and expands opportunities for Career Academy high school students to earn college credit at no cost. They can then enter the workforce or pursue further education.
“The Muscatine Technology Center represents more than a building. It is a direct investment in local talent and the strength of our regional workforce,” said MCC President Naomi DeWinter, EdD. “Now, even more students will have the opportunity to gain skills and training that translates immediately into good jobs right here in our community,” she added.
Funding for the $1.65 million project came from state, private, and community partners, including the State of Iowa Career Academy Incentive Fund, Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust, HNI Charitable Foundation, MCC Foundation, and others.
“This expansion reflects what happens when education, industry, and community come together around a shared goal,” DeWinter said. “Together, we are building pathways for students that strengthen lives and livelihoods. And, we are building the next generation workforce our businesses need.”
The public is invited to attend the ribbon cutting, hear remarks from college and community leaders, and tour the new facility. The event will take place at the MTC building on the MCC campus, 152 Colorado St., Muscatine.
“The purpose of the MTC expansion reflects the Carver Trust’s own enduring interests in supporting both the educational goals of area youth and seeking innovative ways to broaden opportunities available within the Muscatine community,” said Troy Ross, CEO of the Trust.
“This facility accommodates a range of learners, and we look forward to witnessing how its new resources will enhance instruction and attract those wishing to develop new skills and expertise in several promising technical fields,” he added.
“The HNI Charitable Foundation is proud to support educational initiatives that strengthen the communities where our members live and work,” said Lindsay McCullough, senior MCR and foundation specialist at HNI Corporation.
“The skilled trades are at the heart of what we do, and this partnership is a great example of how we can grow opportunities for local students and families,” she added.
Beyond college and high school students, the MTC will serve as a regional hub for workforce and customized training through EICC’s Continuing Education department. The college is partnering with employers including Raymond, HNI, GPC, and Carver Pump to design specialized training in areas such as print reading, Excel, HVAC, CNC machining, and programmable logic controls.
In response to strong employer interest, the MTC will host a four-part Fanuc Robotics Programming course in June as well as Career Summer Camps for high school students. Short-term certificate and community courses, like entry-level CNC and Garage Welding, will also be offered to help residents upskill or explore new careers.
“The MTC will host high-impact, hands-on training aligned with the needs of local employers,” said Ashlee Spannagel, EICC’s vice chancellor of workforce development.
“We are actively working with our business and industry partners to identify and prioritize the most in-demand skills across sectors. These partnerships are guiding the development of contract training and short-term credential programs that quickly prepare individuals for high-wage, high-demand careers,” Spannagel added.
DeWinter said the project and partnerships strengthen the community from every angle. “Whether you’re a high school student, working adult, or employer, the MTC offers opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.”
For more information about EICC’s manufacturing and skilled trades programs, visit eicc.edu/industrial.