Governor Henry McMaster, along with state and local leaders, toured The CORNERSTONE: Economic Development & Workforce Training Center, a newly established 41,000-square-foot facility located at the Northeast campus of Midlands Technical College. The event, organized by the Columbia Area Development Partnership (CADP) and various project partners, took place at 10 a.m. at the location on Research Court in Columbia.
The center has been transformed with a swift investment of $5 million to serve as a central hub for workforce hiring and training throughout the region. Governor McMaster highlighted the importance of initiatives like CORNERSTONE, stating, “Workforce development is one of the most effective ways to help our companies succeed and create new opportunities for our people.” He emphasized that the center will serve as a crucial tool for drawing in new jobs and investments while also supporting the growth of existing businesses.
Key partners in the project include Richland County, the South Carolina Department of Commerce, readySC, and Midlands Technical College. Officials from Scout Motors, which plans to utilize the facility for training employees for its new Blythewood plant, were also present during the event.
Jeff Ruble, CEO of the Columbia Area Development Partnership, noted the collaborative effort involved, saying, “This was a team effort, and the results are going to bring added value to all our partners as we continue to grow our manufacturing base in the Columbia area.” He described CORNERSTONE as not merely a building but a commitment to enhancing the local community’s workforce.
Education is a central focus of CORNERSTONE, which is set to serve about 20,000 community members. The South Carolina Technical College System regards it as a significant advancement in workforce readiness. ReadySC will coordinate training at the center in cooperation with local industries.
Dr. Tim Hardee, President of the S.C. Technical College, expressed that South Carolina’s technical colleges are dedicated to ensuring industries have access to a skilled workforce. “We’re providing customized training that keeps our companies competitive and builds the kind of workforce South Carolina is known for,” he pledged.
Dr. Greg Little, President of Midlands Technical College, shared the vision behind the name CORNERSTONE, stating, “We want it to be the foundation of workforce development in our community.” He highlighted the quick achievements made through collaboration and teamwork, showcasing the pre-hire efforts already in progress.
The center is designed to offer hands-on training, certification programs, and tailored workforce solutions aligned with employer needs. It facilitates training and hiring in various fields, including automotive, energy, pharmaceuticals, and advanced materials. For students and job seekers, CORNERSTONE provides access to quality training and clear pathways to career opportunities with local employers.
By aligning education with industry demands, the center contributes significantly to business growth and workforce development in the Midlands, representing a hopeful investment in the future of the region.