‘A showcase space’ for Longview’s expanded automotive facility, which will add a diesel technology program
A crowd of about 100 attended a ceremonial groundbreaking last week for the much-anticipated
MCC-Longview Automotive Institute.
The $27.9 million building (see architect rendering) will double the square footage for automotive programming and connect the existing automotive High Technology building to the center of the Longview campus.
“For as long as anyone can remember, MCC-Longview has been known for its high-quality automotive programming,” Chancellor Kimberly Beatty said at the July 16 event. “Starting in the fall of 2025, our students will be learning the trade in a showcase environment that shines as brightly as our reputation.”
The project will allow for expansion of the existing automotive technology and collision repair programs and make way for a brand-new diesel technology program.
Longview President Ryan Crider (pictured) said adding the diesel program will go a
long way toward addressing a skills gap in the field, as there is an identified need
for diesel mechanics in the region.
“Employers have been asking for diesel for years,” Crider said. “We already have folks involved in diesel who are looking for ways to get in front of our existing students even before we had the program.”
Planning the new facility was a team effort, starting with the selection of an experienced architect and builder and gathering input from automotive faculty and students. Industry partners and Longview’s automotive advisory board, which includes leaders from local shops and dealerships, were also involved.
Features of the space will include:
- An open architectural design inspired by modern auto dealerships
- An abundance of natural light
- A second-floor observation bridge overlooking 24 automotive work bays
- Dedicated space for each of the three automotive programs
- Much-needed storage space
- More efficient and streamlined instructional space
- An industry partnership room where regional employers can host meetings or events
“It will look like a showcase space,” Crider said. “Everything will be transparent. You will be able to look into the space from the bridge on the second floor, into the classrooms and labs. There will be glass dividers so you can see what’s going on in there.”
View more pictures on MCC's Flickr account. Photos by Sydney Garner