Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center Receives Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) Grant for Career Technical Expansion
CHILLICOTHE, OH - November 3, 2023 - Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center (PRCTC) is pleased to announce its successful application for funding via the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) Career Technical Construction Program. The OFCC has awarded Pickaway-Ross with a grant to support the expansion of its career-technical education facilities, showcasing our commitment to providing exceptional opportunities for students in our area.
The application process, which began in May of 2023, involved rigorous evaluation against specific parameters set by the OFCC which included:
Increasing Student Enrollment: PRCTC demonstrated its capacity to boost student enrollment, reaffirming its dedication to meeting the educational needs of the community.
Additional Student Support: The center highlighted its commitment to offering additional support in in-demand programs, aligning with the Ohio in-demand jobs list to meet the evolving workforce needs.
'Shovel-Ready' Plans: PRCTC presented detailed plans that reflect its readiness to initiate construction promptly upon receiving the grant, ensuring efficient project execution.
Business Partner Support: Substantial support from local business partners showcased strong community backing for the project.
Investment Commitment: PRCTC is committed to investing a significant portion of its own funds, demonstrating a shared responsibility for the project's success.
PRCTC's application detailed a two-phase proposal to enhance its career-technical education facilities:
Construction Trades Expansion: The first phase will comprise a 16,000-square-foot expansion with two high bay labs on the east side of the existing building. PRCTC will invest $4.7 million, while the state will contribute $7.6 million to realize this expansion.
Healthcare Expansion: Although not selected in this application, PRCTC also had plans for a 24,000-square-foot expansion on the east side of the building to accommodate growth in healthcare programs.
With the OFCC's decision to fund the construction trades expansion, PRCTC is moving forward to bring this vision to life.
Construction Timeline:
The official project announcement was made today, November 3, 2023, marking the exciting beginning of the expansion journey. Over the next few months, PRCTC will diligently work on selecting an architect and assembling a team of professionals to assist with the construction process. The center will also engage its dedicated staff in the planning process, fostering collaboration and shared enthusiasm for the expansion.
The projects are required to be completed by September 30, 2026, aligning with the ambitious goals set by PRCTC to enhance its educational facilities.
PRCTC is deeply grateful for the support of the OFCC and the community's steadfast commitment to the growth and development of career technical education opportunities for students in the region.
About Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center
The Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center is a leading institution dedicated to providing high-quality career technical education to prepare students for success in the workforce. Located in Chillicothe, Ohio, PRCTC offers a diverse range of programs and opportunities to meet the needs of its students and the evolving job market.