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WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) – Mechanics are in high demand and so is space on WSU Tech's City Center campus.
The campus is currently undergoing approximately $2 million in renovations to fill the many seats that students will be occupying in the automotive program.
Jesse Lane, director of applied technology, said their skilled trades are in high demand.
“Especially when it comes to automotive service technicians and general service technicians. So we're really trying to meet that need,” he added.
Lane said: “There are many reasons why there is demand for labor, including the large amount of retirements we are seeing within the industry, and as these retirements continue to increase, demand will only increase. You will.”
The 25,000 square foot expansion will include more lab and classroom space, as well as add more tools and equipment.
Freshman Andrew Tapp started the program in January and said he likes the flexibility of the technology program.
“Even if you join one program, it's easy to join another program by talking to your advisor,” Tapp says.
Lane said Congress has played a big role in addressing this workforce need.
“As the demand for our workforce increases, we are very pleased that we have a Legislature willing to invest in career and technical education to meet that demand and keep our students in Kansas,” he said. Sometimes I'm excited,” he said.
Lane said the program also has an alternative fuels program where students work on emerging trends.
“So as we see an increase in electric and hybrid vehicles and even hydrogen, we're going to try to address that early so that WSU technicians are ready when they enter the workforce.” Lane said.
Lane hopes the renovations will be completed by fall, just in time for students to begin classes.
For more information about WSU's Tech program, visit this website.
