ECTC BlueOval SK Training Center

The Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC) On-Site Training Center, located at the Ford BlueOval SK Battery Park in Glendale, KY, is a 42,000 SF facility designed to provide an array of workforce development opportunities. This initiative is part of a larger partnership with the state of Kentucky, supporting the Governor’s goal of positioning the state as a leader in battery production. Designed to meet the evolving needs of both industry and education, the center houses advanced manufacturing and technical laboratories, classrooms, transportation-related training spaces, and workforce development offices.

As the Engineer of Record, CMTA incorporated sustainable and energy-efficient systems into the facility design. The building features a geothermal HVAC system, supported by 62 geothermal wells drilled 400 feet deep. High-efficiency water-source heat pumps and outside air units with energy recovery optimize heating, cooling, and ventilation, with programmable thermostats providing precise climate control. Additionally, the facility includes a roof-mounted solar hot water system and a 50kW solar array, with provisions for an additional 200kW array to enhance energy independence.

Adaptability is a central feature of the Training Center, which includes instructional bays equipped with flexible electrical and communication infrastructure to support future curriculum changes and emerging technologies. LED lighting with daylight harvesting and advanced control systems enhance energy efficiency and sustainability, while integrated security systems, including access control and video surveillance, provide a safe and secure environment.

The project also received $1.5M in federal clean energy tax credits for the installation of the high-performance geothermal system. These tax credits play a critical role in incentivizing clean and renewable energy investments, decarbonization, and infrastructure upgrades, making sustainability a cost-effective reality for ECTC.

The On-Site Training Center is a driving force for workforce development in the region. Since opening in 2024, the facility has trained over 600 students in advanced manufacturing and electric vehicle (EV)-focused programs, equipping the next generation of skilled technicians and engineers with the expertise needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. This commitment to workforce preparation aligns seamlessly with the mission of Ford’s BlueOval SK Battery Park, which is projected to generate nearly 5,000 full-time jobs in Kentucky by late 2026.

By blending advanced technologies, sustainable systems, and a forward-looking design, the Training Center not only supports Kentucky’s immediate workforce development needs but also positions the state at the forefront of innovation in battery production.