Diablo Valley College (DVC) hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking to kick off the construction of its new, 32,500-square-foot Engineering Technology Building on the Pleasant Hill campus.
DVC students, faculty, classified professionals, and administrators joined with Contra Costa Community College District (4CD) trustees and staff as well as industry partners and community leaders to celebrate this milestone with the official turning of the soil.
The $56.8 million state-of-the-art facility is funded through the remainder of 4CD’s 2014 Measure E general obligation bond. It will house programs such as construction, engineering and engineering technology, architecture, electronics/ electrical technology, industrial design, and energy systems, which are already paving the way for careers in industrial automation, robotics, and clean energy, including electric vehicles. Features of the new building will include high-tech spaces such as:
- 3D printing;
- a computer numerical control (CNC) lab;
- a computer-aided design (CAD) lab;
- a machine shop; and
- robotics, electronics, and electrical labs.
“This building’s innovative and flexible spaces are designed for expanded hands-on learning opportunities,” said DVC President Dr. Monica Chahal. “In partnership with leading employers and industry advisors, we continue the important work of preparing students for rewarding careers in high-demand fields. By investing in this facility, DVC and the District are ensuring that future generations of students have the skills and opportunity to drive California’s innovation economy.”
"We’re honored to continue our partnership with Contra Costa Community College District in delivering transformative educational spaces that empower the next generation of innovators,” said Brian Jemo, Regional Executive for Kitchell, the project and construction management company bringing the new building to DVC, together with JKAE as the project architect team and Clark/Sullivan Construction as the builder.
“The new Engineering Technology Building reflects Diablo Valley College’s commitment to hands-on learning and career-ready training in fields like architecture, construction, engineering, and more. As proud supporters of the College and its vision, we’re excited to help bring this facility to life for students and the community,” he said.
Demolition of the previous building, which was built in 1971, began over the summer, and construction will begin this fall. The new project is expected to be completed by fall 2027.
The new facility is slated to be LEED Gold and Zero Net Energy (ZNE), signifying DVC’s and 4CD’s commitment to energy-efficiency and sustainability.
Video of the demolition and construction can be viewed through the Clark/Sullivan Construction live cameras.
