Good news for Missouri’s manufacturing community. Joined by Governor Mike Parson, our partners at Ranken Technical College, in collaboration with the Lincoln County R-III School District, the State of Missouri, Lincoln County, and the City of Troy, broke ground on a new campus in Troy, Missouri. Ranken will provide secondary and post-secondary education and training for the region, and initially focus on the emerging technologies of advanced manufacturing, aquaponics, renewable energy, as well as building and construction trades. Students will be able to begin classes this academic year and move to the new, nearly 25,000 square foot facility in the fall of 2021. Congrats to Ranken Technical College and thank you for supporting our manufacturing community through workforce development initiatives such as this.
A groundbreaking ceremony was scheduled at the site of the new campus located at 651 John Deere Drive in Troy at 11:00 A.M. on June 17, 2020. Students will be able to begin classes this academic year and move to the new, nearly 25,000 square foot facility in the fall of 2021. Governor Mike Parson was on-site for the groundbreaking as well as Missouri State Representative Randy Pietzman, Missouri State Senator Jeanie Riddle, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Dr. Margie Vandeven, and Missouri Enterprise’s CEO & President Dusty Cruise.
“The Lincoln County R-III School District and Board of Education are thankful for the support of our legislators, Senator Jeannie Riddle and Representative Randy Pietzman, that made this project possible as well as Ranken, Lincoln County, and the City of Troy,” said Lincoln County R-III School District Superintendent Mark S. Penny. “Partnerships like these are vital in moving our community forward. We could not be more thrilled to be able to provide these local opportunities for our students and community. Based on student interest and employer needs, we are looking forward to these programs being a success for all.”
The facility is projected to cost around $5,000,000, and the County has submitted a grant to the Economic Development Administration, which, if approved, will provide up to 80% reimbursement. An additional $1,000,000 in funding was previously allocated by the State of Missouri, facilitated by Senator Riddle and Representative Pietzman, to aid in workforce development in Lincoln County.
The Lincoln County campus will offer programs based upon the Ranken model of work-based learning with an apprentice-styled, microenterprise structure. Students gain experience, industry certifications, and earnings from working with established industry leaders. At the same time, regional companies have access to skilled talent and resources.
“Lincoln County firmly believes an educated, skilled workforce is essential to the success and economic growth of our community, which is why we have agreed to provide $100,000 a year for three years for instructional support,” said Julie Rodgers, Lincoln County Economic Development Director. “We believe the key to this success involves accessible education opportunities. The partnership between Ranken Technical College, Lincoln County, and the Lincoln County R-III School District strengthens this vision for our community.” The Lincoln County Economic Development office plans to host an information breakfast in July so that businesses and industries can learn more about benefiting from the Workforce Development Center. The Office will release details as soon as they are available.
(Missouri Enterprise CEO & President Dusty Cruise and Missouri Gov. Mike Parson)
The Ranken-West curriculum will have a 9th-14th grade structure, with students in grades 9-10 focused on academics and career exploration. During grades 11-13, they will focus on career skill development and work-based learning. Upon completing the requirements at this level, the students will earn associate degrees and/or professional certifications. Upon completing grade 14, the students will earn bachelor degrees of science in applied management.
“Ranken has a reputation for being one of the best technical schools in the nation, and has introduced a career education model that presents a major paradigm shift in education and workforce development,” said Ranken CEO Stan Shoun. “We understand the region’s shortage, as well as its demand, and are preparing students with the best education to help fill the gap in Missouri and the surrounding areas.”
For more, visit https://ranken.edu/ranken-technical-college-to-open-campus-in-lincoln-county/.