Heartland Community College opens state-of-the-art manufacturing academy [Video]

NORMAL (25News Now) – Heartland Community College cut the ribbon on a $17 million facility that plans to train people for the complex manufacturing jobs in the area.

While the 45,000-square-foot facility will house programs in robotics, HVAC, digital media, and more, the highlight of the new facility is the Electric Vehicle Lab, sponsored by State Farm.

The lab is one of the first of its kind in Illinois. It will be a learning space for students to gain skills in EV maintenance, manufacturing, technology, energy storage, and other parts of the job.

The EV Lab and Advancement Manufacturing Center are meant to coincide with major employers like Ferrero USA and Rivian Automotive. According to District 540 Board of Trustees Chair Becky Ropp, there are hundreds of job openings in the …