Rogue Community College is set to break ground on a pair of new Transportation Technology Centers, marking a significant investment in career-focused education and regional workforce development across Southern Oregon. The planned facilities, to be constructed at the college’s Table Rock and Redwood campuses, are designed to expand hands-on training opportunities in automotive, diesel, and emerging transportation technologies.
College officials say the project reflects a growing demand for skilled technicians in a rapidly evolving transportation sector, where advancements in vehicle systems, alternative fuels, and diagnostic technology are reshaping the industry. By expanding its infrastructure, the college aims to better prepare students for high-demand careers while helping meet the workforce needs of local employers.
Two public groundbreaking ceremonies have been scheduled to commemorate the milestone, offering community members, students, and industry partners an opportunity to take part in the launch of the new facilities.
The first ceremony will take place at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, May 5, at the Table Rock Campus in White City. The event will be held at the construction site near the corner of Pacific Avenue and Avenue C, where the new center will rise as part of the campus’s ongoing development. A second ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 7, at the Redwood Campus in Grants Pass. Attendees at the Redwood location are advised to use the east entrance off Redwood Highway to Demaray Drive, then follow College Drive to access nearby parking.
The dual-campus expansion underscores the college’s role as a key training hub for the region, particularly in fields that require both technical expertise and practical experience. Programs housed within the new centers are expected to provide students with direct, real-world training aligned with current industry standards, improving job readiness upon graduation.
As Southern Oregon continues to navigate workforce shortages in skilled trades, the development of these facilities represents a forward-looking effort to bridge education and employment. Community members are encouraged to attend one or both ceremonies as Rogue Community College moves ahead with a project aimed at strengthening both its academic offerings and the region’s economic future.