IMPACT Center for Leadership and Innovation

In August 2026, Warren County Public Schools unveiled the IMPACT Center for Leadership & Innovation, the nation’s most ambitious technology-driven 7-12 facility. Designed to foster innovative, future-focused learning for emerging careers, this one-of-a-kind facility redefines the modern classroom. CMTA blended high-performance engineering and technology design with immersive, AI-driven labs and educational spaces to create a launchpad for the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and industry leaders.

The 180,000 SF facility features five academies and 16 career pathways aligned with emerging workforce needs, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, aeronautics, biomedical innovation, robotics, and industrial design. CMTA designed flexible building systems to support the building’s specialized educational spaces, such as laboratories, makerspaces, and media production environments, ensuring adaptability as technology and educational programs evolve.

A major component of CMTA’s work was the design of the audiovisual systems that support the Center’s technology-intensive curriculum. Professional broadcast and television production spaces provide students with access to equipment representative of modern media production environments, featuring a curved LED video wall and fully configured studio cameras. The facility also includes a dedicated podcast studio and a comprehensive video production space equipped for in-studio and field work. Augmented reality classrooms and makerspaces provide in-person and virtual students with best-in-class STEM exploration—exemplifying the bleeding edge of technology-enabled education. Additionally, the Center’s gaming lab features full streaming capabilities that integrate gaming, esports, and digital media education, offering students hands-on experience with the technology utilized in these growing industries.

Flexibility was equally important for the Center’s large gathering spaces. CMTA designed AV systems for the conference center, enabling the facility to host Warren County Board of Education meetings as well as presentations, professional development sessions, community events, and large-scale gaming competitions. Integrated café sound and AV systems further enhance the Center’s functionality for both educational and community use.

To meet Warren County’s district-wide energy efficiency and sustainability goals, CMTA incorporated high-performance MEP systems, including a geothermal HVAC system and a roof-mounted and canopy photovoltaic array for onsite renewable energy. Architectural elements like insulated concrete form (ICF) construction, extensive daylighting, and a compact building footprint further optimize operational efficiency, supporting the building’s pursuit of Zero Energy Emerging status.

Beyond its cutting-edge infrastructure, the IMPACT Center supports an equally ambitious educational program. It is the first FranklinCovey Model School in the world, the first school in Kentucky to offer a dedicated Artificial Intelligence career pathway, and the first school in the U.S. to offer IBM industry certificates in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics. Students have access to more than 15 early college programs, 30 high-need industry certifications, and multiple leadership credentials, culminating in the FranklinCovey Life-Ready Leadership Certificate.

CMTA is proud to have designed this world-class facility that bridges the educational needs of today and the workforce demands of tomorrow. The IMPACT Center’s infrastructure, technology, and educational spaces transform hands-on learning— all while maintaining a strong focus on long-term performance, adaptability, and sustainability.