Blackhawk Announces Construction of New Manufacturing Center with $7M Gift from Foundation

Left to right: Lisa Hurda, Director of Advancement & Foundation; Dave Holterman, Foundation Board President; Dr. Tracy Pierner, Blackhawk President.

Blackhawk Technical College unveiled plans Thursday for a state-of-the-art manufacturing center on its Central Campus in Janesville. The project is made possible through a $7 million contribution from the Blackhawk Technical College Foundation.

The new Innovative Manufacturing Education Center (I-MEC) reaffirms the college’s commitment to delivering exceptional education and training opportunities in the field of manufacturing. The facility will serve as a hub of innovation, equipped with cutting-edge technology and resources to support hands-on learning experiences for students in Automation Systems Technology, Computer Numeric Control Technician, Electro-Mechanical Technology, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Welding & Fabrication, and HVAC-R.

“We are tremendously thankful for the Blackhawk Technical College Foundation’s unwavering support and commitment to our students and programs. This new manufacturing center will enable us to continue delivering exceptional education and training opportunities that align with industry demands, ensuring our students are well-prepared for success in the workforce,” said Dr. Tracy Pierner, President of Blackhawk.

Currently, Blackhawk’s manufacturing programs are housed at the Advanced Manufacturing Training Center in Milton, which was previously owned by the Blackhawk Foundation. In May, the Foundation sold the property to KANDU Industries. The proceeds from this sale will contribute to the construction of the new facility at Central Campus.

“This gift will launch a new initiative to greatly enhance the number of students pursuing manufacturing career pathways,” said Dave Holterman, President of the Blackhawk Foundation Board. “In addition, it will also support a collaboration with our industry partners and faculty, ensuring that these students are equipped with the skills and training needed to fulfill the workforce challenges the manufacturing sector is facing now and into the future.”

Construction of the state-of-the-art facility, spanning 52,000 square feet, is slated to begin in September, with an expected completion of fall 2024. It will be located on the south side of Blackhawk’s campus and connect with the existing District Office. The new space will include dedicated space for welding, as well as specialized laboratory areas and other learning spaces. The construction will be undertaken by JP Cullen, with architectural work provided by Angus Young.

During the 2023-2024 academic year, manufacturing classes will continue to be held at the Milton facility. KANDU will gradually transition into the building in a series of phases, beginning in the fourth quarter of 2023, and will share occupancy of the building with the college until summer 2024.

About the Blackhawk Technical College Foundation

Established in 1978 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Blackhawk Technical College Foundation is the bridge between the generosity of philanthropic donors to our students, faculty, and the College by providing resources necessary to make college possible for all. The Foundation provides student support through scholarships and student emergency assistance awards as well as through investment in facilities and resources that enable student success.