A need for traditional and non-traditional post-secondary education led South Plains College and Lubbock community leaders to combine efforts to create a satellite campus for the Community College that offers both traditional two-year associates degrees and post-secondary technical training.

An 84,000 square foot abandoned car dealership located within an economically depressed neighborhood was renovated to house the new functions and provide a spring-board for urban renewal. The new facility includes technical labs for automotive repair, metals fabrication, construction technology, and certified nursing. Computer labs and general classrooms augment technical programs and provide for general college courses. Support spaces include a large flex classroom for special programs and a collaborative Media Center/Lounge. Student services are offered at a serpentine counter backed by glass-fronted offices, so cross-trained staff can easily assist students. A manned kiosk inside the main entry provides general security for “regular” hours as well as night/weekend classes.

Dry-erase painted “idea walls” in all classrooms allow for collaborative learning, as does a wirelessly accessed interactive projector allowing instructor/student connections. The Media Center/Lounge is furnished with both traditional table/chairs and soft seating to enhance collaboration. All walls/ceilings are acoustically insulated to encourage group learning without disrupting adjacent classrooms.