Groundbreaking of Heman Drummond Center of Innovation Marks New Era In Education
- kgraber7
- 12 minutes ago
- 1 min read
May 19, 2025
by ABC3340
JASPER, Ala. (WBMA) — The groundbreaking ceremony for the Heman Drummond Center of Innovation (HDCI) marked a significant milestone in Alabama's educational landscape. The $80 million facility is set to transform career and technical education for high school students, impacting 2,100 students with its state-of-the-art, 120,000-square-foot building.
Governor Kay Ivey, Secretary Greg Reed of the Alabama Department of Workforce, and Carson Gilliland, a senior electrical technology student from Oakman High School, were among the speakers at the event held on Industrial Drive.
Project Rendering by Lathan Architects
The HDCI aims to prepare students for future-ready careers by offering innovative training in fields such as cyber IT, robotics, healthcare, automotive, and construction. Students will have the opportunity to earn industry certifications, take college-level technical courses, and gain real-world experience through mentorships, apprenticeships, and internships.
Project Rendering by Lathan Architects
The center's mission is to foster generational change and create opportunities for students to join a thriving workforce and economy. The project is a result of the leadership of the Walker Area Community Foundation and the generosity of the Drummond Family, with significant financial investment from the State of Alabama.
The Walker Area Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Walker County and surrounding areas through strategic investments in education, economic development, health, and leadership.
Some of the team from Lathan Architects who attended the ceremony.
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