WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Renovations are underway at WSU Tech's automotive department in hopes of shedding more light on the automotive program.
The redevelopment will add more laboratory space for instructors and students.
“I think the new facility will give us a more organized and better learning environment,” said WSU College of Engineering student Ivy Lawrence.
Although it's currently a construction project, students say the facility will feel more like a professional auto shop once renovations are complete.
“It makes the students feel like they're just passing straight through instead of transitioning from the classroom to the retail store. So it makes the transition to the real field of work a little easier.” WSU Polytechnic University student Alexander Tone said:
There are currently approximately 200 students in the automotive program. Facility upgrades will add study space, and he aims to accommodate an additional 30 to 50 students.
“So not only will this give us additional seats, but it will also create energy around automotive service and excitement to show us what it's like to work in a real service facility.” WSU Technology Applications Jesse Lane, Dean of the School of Technology, said:
As the facility modernizes, other automotive curriculum will also be emphasized to help students better understand how new technologies are used in vehicles.
“Part of this renovation includes alternative fuel programs that address some of the emerging trends in electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and other fuel systems, and this space will allow instructors to explore those opportunities. You can,” Lane said.
Kansas State will add $1.5 million to the renovations, which will cost about $2 million. Redevelopment of the facility is scheduled to be completed by the start of next fiscal year.
