Building the Future: SCC Expands with New STEM Facility and Black’s Tire & Auto Service Partnership

This year marked a major milestone in Southeastern Community College’s continued growth as construction moved forward on the new $22 million Transportation Technology/STEM Facility, a transformative addition that represents the College’s commitment to workforce education and long-term community impact. 

Located on the northeast corner of campus, the new 22,000 square foot facility is designed to house SCC’s Automotive Systems Technology, Diesel Technology, and Truck Driver Training programs. Once complete, the state-of-the-art space will feature modern classrooms, climate-controlled labs, a CDL training lab, automotive and diesel training areas, a Dyno lab, and space to support emerging technologies, including electric vehicle diagnostics. 

The project officially broke ground in August 2025, signaling what college leadership described as one of the most significant campus expansions in decades. 

“It’s a big day for Southeastern, and it’s a big day for Columbus County and this region,” said Joe Hooks, Chair of the SCC Board of Trustees. “It’s the opening of our new campus, basically, and it’s the biggest project happening on campus in over 20 years.” 

SCC President Dr. Chris English emphasized the broader vision behind the new space, noting that the facility is designed not only for today’s needs but for generations of student success and workforce development. 

“Together, we are equipping students with the skills they need to pursue a rewarding and in-demand career,” English said. “Today is a reality of everyone moving forward.” 

The building reflects SCC’s continued focus on expanding high-demand programs that directly support the economic needs of Columbus County and the surrounding region. From diesel technology and commercial truck driver training to advanced automotive diagnostics, the new space will provide students with hands-on training in an environment modeled after modern industry facilities. 

Construction continued to move steadily forward throughout the year, reaching another historic milestone in January 2026 when college leadership, trustees, state officials, architects, and construction partners gathered for the steel topping ceremony. During the event, the final steel beam was signed before being lifted into place on the building’s structural frame, marking a significant step toward completion. 

The ceremony welcomed the support of Brenden Jones and Bill Rabon, underscoring the project’s regional significance and the strong investment in workforce education across southeastern North Carolina. 

“I want to thank Rep. Brenden Jones and Sen. Bill Rabon for their support in helping this community,” English said. “This is your building, and you’ve invested in this and Columbus County.” 

Joe Hooks noted that the new facility represents more than a building. It is the first step in SCC’s long-term campus expansion and continued service to the region.

“We’re helping make Southeastern Community College become what it needs to be for our community, for its growth and well-being of our citizens and region, Hooks said.

Further strengthening this vision, SCC announced a historic multi-year partnership with Black’s Tire & Auto Service in January 2026.

This significant private investment through the Southeastern Community College Foundation will support the College’s mission, students, and workforce programs for years to come. In recognition of the commitment, Black’s Tire & Auto Service will receive naming rights to the front entrance area of the Automotive Technology Building, along with prominent logo placement inside the facility.

“This commitment is about more than a building or a name,” Hooks said. “It reflects a shared belief in our students, confidence in workforce education, and a long-term commitment to the future of our community.”

The partnership extends beyond financial support. As part of the collaboration, Black’s Tire & Auto Service will utilize SCC’s automotive and diesel programs for technical education and training for current employees and new hires, creating a direct pipeline between education and industry. 

“We’re proud to partner with SCC and are committed to growing together and investing in students and workforce education for many years to come,” said Rick Benton II, Owner of Black’s Tire & Auto Service. 

Together, the construction of the new Transportation Technology/STEM Facility and the partnership with Black’s Tire & Auto Service represent more than a new building. They reflect SCC’s continued investment in new spaces, stronger partnerships, and career pathways that lead to work that matters.