Southern Oregon’s workforce pipeline is poised for a significant upgrade as Rogue Community College moves forward with the development of two new Transportation Technology Centers, one at its Table Rock campus in White City and the other at its Redwood campus in Grants Pass. The projects represent a targeted investment in career education tied directly to regional labor demands, particularly in automotive, diesel, and evolving transportation technologies.
The larger of the two facilities will be constructed at the Table Rock campus in White City. Plans call for a 15,500 square foot center designed to expand training capacity while reflecting the realities of modern transportation careers. The building will include dedicated automotive and diesel instruction areas, along with flexible outdoor learning bays that allow students to work on equipment in conditions similar to what they will encounter in the field. Classroom spaces are being designed to integrate directly with hands on training, reinforcing a model that blends theory with practical application.
Developers have also emphasized adaptability within the Table Rock design. As vehicle technology continues to shift toward electric and hybrid systems, the facility is expected to support instruction in these emerging areas. Infrastructure within the building will allow programs to evolve without requiring major redesign, a move intended to keep pace with industry changes over time. Student collaboration areas and accessibility features are also part of the design, reflecting a broader push to make technical education more inclusive and aligned with current workplace expectations.
At the same time, a second facility is planned for the Redwood campus in Grants Pass. This 8,500 square foot center will serve a similar purpose but on a slightly smaller scale, focusing on automotive and diesel training with flexible shop configurations. The design prioritizes visibility and safety within the workspace, allowing instructors to oversee multiple training areas while maintaining a structured and efficient learning environment.
The Redwood facility is also being built with long-term growth in mind. Adaptable training areas will allow the college to expand or modify programs as workforce needs shift. Sustainable construction elements are expected to meet LEED Silver performance standards, signaling an effort to balance industrial training with environmental considerations.
Together, the two projects highlight a coordinated approach to workforce development across Southern Oregon. By expanding training capacity in both White City and Grants Pass, RCC is positioning itself to serve a broader geographic area while addressing persistent shortages in skilled trades. Automotive and diesel technicians remain in high demand across the region, and the addition of training in newer vehicle technologies reflects a shift already underway within the industry.
The development of these centers also signals a deeper alignment between education providers and regional economic needs. As transportation systems evolve and infrastructure demands grow, the ability to train a local workforce becomes increasingly critical. RCC’s investment suggests a long-term strategy focused not only on student opportunity, but on sustaining the industries that keep Southern Oregon moving.
Construction timelines and future program expansions are expected to unfold in phases, with both campuses serving as hubs for hands on technical education for years to come.