Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senator Katie Britt joined state and local officials in Enterprise, Alabama, to break ground on the new Workforce Development Center at Enterprise State Community College (ESCC). The center, a partnership with the City of Enterprise, aims to address workforce training needs in Coffee County and the Wiregrass region.

The facility will house ESCC’s Mechatronics (Advanced Manufacturing), Automotive, and Welding programs. It will also offer opportunities for students to develop skills in HVAC, plumbing, and other trades. Construction is expected to be completed by Fall 2025, with an estimated 200-300 students benefiting annually from the new center.

“I am excited to be here in my hometown to support this incredible vision ESCC and the City of Enterprise are bringing to life. This new workforce development center will open the doors of opportunity for so many students,” said Senator Britt. “This is a huge investment into our community—one that will pay dividends for years to come.”

Senator Britt emphasized her role in securing federal funds for the project. "On Aug 1, the Senate Appropriations Committee advanced the Fiscal Year 2025 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, which includes $1 million to ensure the students that will learn in this facility have access to state-of-the-art equipment."

During her visit, Senator Britt delivered remarks and met with various local representatives including K12 school officials, ESCC Foundation Members, Alabama Community College System Members, industry representatives, and members of the small business community.

Joining Senator Britt were ESCC President Danny Long; Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy Baker; Mayor William E. Cooper; City Administrator Jonathan Tullos; State Senators Donnie Chesteen and Josh Carnley; State Representatives Steve Clouse, Rhett Marques, Jeff Sorrells; and Marcus Paramore.

Earlier this summer as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Britt secured $5.746 million in funding for the Alabama Community College System within the Fiscal Year 2025 Labor appropriations bill. Of this amount, $1 million is allocated specifically for purchasing new equipment for ESCC’s Workforce Development Center. The bill now moves forward for consideration by the full Senate.