MCC-Longview Opens State-of-Art Automotive Institute and Launches a New Automotive Program
Seven years in the making, MCC’s leadership envisioned modernizing the automotive technology program to expand workforce training opportunities.
In its initial phase, the existing automotive High Technology building was renovated and the collision repair program was expanded. Now after more than a year since its ground-breaking, the new MCC-Longview Automotive Institute combines its academic and corporate training programs entirely in one building, including its new diesel technology program.
In June 2026, the college opened the Automotive Institute, a facility designed to support hands-on learning.
The new program is equipped with state-of-the art equipment with ten bays specific to the needs of diesel motor and commercial vehicles, allowing for hands-on learning in this industry specific field. The first program cohort begins in the Fall 2026.
“For more than 60 years, MCC has set the standard for automotive training and education in our region, preparing more than 9,500 students for careers in the industry,” states Dr. Beatty, Chancellor and CEO of Metropolitan Community College. “Now with expanded capabilities, open-concept design and modernized teaching labs, MCC is in the position to further its impact even more.”
The new renovated institute includes:
- Dedicated space for each of the three automotive programs
- A second-floor observation bridge overlooking 24 automotive work bays
- Expanded footprint for the Collision program
The project was led by architect firm DLR Group and general contractor McCown Gordon, in partnership with LM2 Construction, the Automotive Institute has an open architectural design inspired by modern auto dealerships.
Many of Missouri’s state and local elected leaders joined MCC staff, faculty and its project partners at the ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 5th, including Congressman Emanual Cleaver, Missouri Speaker Rep. Jon Patterson, Rep. Keri Ingle of MO-District 35 and Lee’s Summit Mayor Beto Lopez to name a few. “Today dedication is a huge milestone for the City of Lee’s Summit. We take a lot of pride in Lee’s Summit with workforce initiatives … we would like to be considered the model for workforce initiatives,” states Mayor Lopez. “This is a huge need for our community and across the country, and to have that here in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, we’re very proud of that, we will be a continued partner as long as I am mayor.”
The MCC-Longview Automotive Institute is the fifth and final building of the Path Forward Capital Campaign led by the MCC Foundation, and it completes the second and final phase of the campaign. The mission of the Path Forward Capital Campaign is to strengthen MCC’s workforce pipeline of local talent by adding scholarships, enhance programs and state-of-the-art facilities.
“We will continue to tackle the region’s economic and workforce challenges with new programs, new buildings and partner with employers to fill in industry and talent gaps,” states Dr. Beatty.