OTC receives $46M in state funding for new workforce, student success center

With $46 million allocated from the state, Ozarks Technical Community College can move forward without delay on its new Center for Workforce and Student Success.

The state budget was finalized Friday and signed by Gov. Mike Parson. The funding for the OTC project was one of the largest allocations for higher education this year.

“We are grateful to Gov. Parson and value his office’s continued support of our strategic plans and commitment to students and workforce development,” said OTC Chancellor Hal Higdon in a Monday news release. “We are excited to create a center that will be the heart of excellence and learning for our students for decades to come.”

The project is expected to cost $60 million and was approved mid-June by the OTC Board of Trustees.

The three-story, 100,000 square foot building will be built on the west side of the Springfield campus — on Chestnut Expressway at Sherman Avenue — will become OTC's home for academic support and workforce training.

In August, the OTC board is expected to evaluate and award construction bids and a groundbreaking ceremony will be scheduled in late September.

Part of the master plan for the Springfield campus, the new center is set to open in fall 2026. It will include amenities including a library, career and tutoring center, fitness center, food court and bookstore.

In addition to the state funding, OTC plans to use capital funds, grants and private donations to pay for the center.

According to a release, the new enter will include the following features:

• Dedicated space for academic support services, including writing, language and math tutoring, testing centers, computer labs and library services, plus study areas;
• Space to host career fairs with local employers, mock interviews, apprenticeship outreach, resume writing and career development;
• Facilities to provide special training opportunities for local employers, the community and the college;
• A central gathering area accommodating up to 650 students for lectures, presentations, community events and special ceremonies;
• A new bookstore, food court, and multi-purpose room to allow for a variety of fitness and wellness activities.

The project also includes a pedestrian-friendly student plaza with covered outdoor seating for dining and studying, food trucks, and recreational activities. Parking will be added on the north part of campus.

“Ozarks Tech continues to excel in recognizing and delivering what students need to be successful,” said board chair Paula Adams, in the release. “This is another milestone the college and community can be proud of. We want to thank Gov. Parson and the legislature for recognizing and supporting our mission and the value the college brings to the region.”