Hays, KS – Fort Hays Tech | North Central is proud to announce a transformative $500,000 investment from the Schmidt Foundation in support of the college’s new Construction Innovation Center, scheduled to open in Spring 2026. This generous contribution will help fund the construction of the nearly 30,000-square-foot facility, designed to expand access to high-demand career training in construction technology, electrical technology, plumbing/heating/AC, and commercial driving (CDL).

“This extraordinary gift from the Schmidt Foundation demonstrates their deep commitment to strengthening technical education and workforce development in North Central Kansas,” said Eric Burks, President at Fort Hays Tech | North Central. “Their support accelerates our ability to train more students and meet the critical demand for skilled workers in our region.”

The Construction Innovation Center will include three industry-grade workshops/labs, interactive classrooms, and technology-enhanced training environments that mirror real-world job sites. The facility will allow Fort Hays Tech | North Central to double enrollment capacity in these construction-related programs.

“The Schmidt Foundation is proud to invest in a project that not only strengthens our local workforce but also uplifts communities by creating opportunities for students to gain hands-on skills and build lifelong careers,” said Gary Shorman, Schmidt Foundation. “This Center will have a lasting impact on rural Kansas.”

This investment represents a major milestone in the capital campaign for the Construction Innovation Center. The project has also received strong support from industry partners, local businesses and regional foundations.

For more information about the Construction Innovation Center or to contribute to the campaign, please visit fhtechnc.edu or contact Mendi Anschutz, Director of Advancement at 785.738.9090.