Blueprint for the Future
With investment, vision and modernization, the well-established COCC Manufacturing Technology programs and facilities are moving into a new era
An extensive remodel and major addition to the Redmond campus’s Manufacturing Technology Labs beginning in 2026 (originally built in 2001) is expanding capacity and adding upgraded equipment for futures in machining, welding and computer numerical control (CNC) operations.
Classes and trainings will continue during construction; completion is expected as early as winter term 2028.
By the numbers:
- The remodel of the existing 34,300-square-foot Manufacturing Technology Labs will enlarge the CNC labs and add classrooms for product design and quality control.
- The addition of a 6,500-square-foot build-out will consist of relocated welding and fabrication labs.
- Exterior work will include an outdoor material storage area and an outdoor welding area.
- The estimated $8 million project will combine $4 million from COCC general funds and a matching grant from Oregon’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission.
Additionally, in early 2026, COCC announced it had received a $2.2 million U.S. Department of Education’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education grant — one of just 17 community colleges nationwide to be awarded those funds.
At a glance:
- The funding will help COCC create seven new stackable short-term certificate pathways aligned with skill specifications from local industry.
- Several Central Oregon employers will be integrated into the process — impacting curriculum design and internship development. Industry partners include Outback Manufacturing, BasX Solutions and Nosler.
- The funds will support hiring faculty and staff, purchasing of equipment and technology, and improving data systems for Pell eligibility and student outcome tracking; the new certificates will meet new federal Workforce Pell Grant requirements.
- Anticipated outcomes include the enrollment of 250 students in the new certificate programs.
- Oregon’s welding workforce is expected to jump by 15% between 2022-32, estimates the U.S. Dept. of Labor.
