On November 8, Wharton-Smith joined community stakeholders, industry partners, and Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) leadership to cut the ribbon on the brand-new Orange Technical College – West Campus! See photos.

The state-of-the-art campus provides affordable, high-quality career training that will help students develop the skills they need to succeed in today’s fast-evolving job market. OTC-West students will have access to hands-on, industry-relevant programs in skilled trades like carpentry, electrical, HVAC, welding, human services, and more.

The $50 million project included the construction of a new five-building campus and a photovoltaic array on the roof of the buildings to provide solar energy throughout. The site work included constructing two parking lots, a bus drop-off area, several retention and detention stormwater ponds, and an offsite road extension.

Speaking at the ribbon-cutting, OCPS School Board member Melissa Byrd stated, “Not only is it a gorgeous new facility, but it is also a gateway to success for years to come for students bold enough to step through those doors.”

“This project is about creating a space where students can thrive,” said Wharton-Smith Senior Project Manager David Romero. “We’re proud to have helped build a facility that will inspire and support the dreams of so many in our community.”

Congratulations to the entire team behind this project!