Alexandria Technical & Community College Announces Naming of New Central Specialties Transportation Center

Alexandria Technical & Community College (ATCC) is proud to announce that its new transportation training facility will be named the Central Specialties Transportation Center in recognition of a transformational philanthropic commitment from Central Specialties, Inc. (CSI).

The naming reflects the strong and longstanding partnership between ATCC and CSI, a company widely recognized for its commitment to workforce development and investment in the future of Minnesota’s transportation and construction industries.

“ATCC has a strong partnership with CSI, an industry leader that invests in the future of our region’s workforce,” said Jeff Wild, Vice President of Advancement & Outreach and Executive Director of the ATCC Foundation. “Their commitment goes far beyond a financial contribution. CSI continues to demonstrate a genuine dedication to preparing the next generation of skilled transportation industry professionals.”

The philanthropic commitment from CSI represents the third-largest gift in ATCC’s history. In addition to their financial pledge, CSI has committed to providing training opportunities for students and significant in-kind equipment donations that will enhance hands-on learning experiences within the facility.

The new 44,000 square foot, state funded, Transportation Center will serve as a signature facility on the ATCC campus, offering state-of-the-art training environments designed to meet the evolving needs of industry partners and students pursuing careers in truck driving and diesel technologies. The highly visible, industry-forward facility will support these high-demand Minnesota workforce sectors while strengthening connections between students and employers.

“CSI’s commitment firmly positions the company as a premier workforce partner for our Diesel Mechanics and Professional Truck Driver programs,” Wild added. “Their investment creates a lasting legacy that will support future generations of technicians, operators, and transportation professionals while ensuring our students receive the highest-quality education and training available.”

“ATCC is a vital part of our community, and we are fortunate to have such a strong partner in developing our future workforce,” said Jarrod Felton, CSI President and CEO. “As stewards of critical roadway infrastructure, we rely on ATCC to prepare skilled professionals in key areas that will be supported by the new Transportation Center. We are proud to support this project and look forward to the opportunities it will create for graduates and for the communities that depend on the infrastructure we serve.”

The Central Specialties Transportation Center will feature donor recognition that reflects the strong industry partnerships driving workforce development at ATCC. Ziegler Companies, a significant contributor to the college’s Diesel Mechanics program, will be recognized in both diesel training labs, while Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) will be honored through the naming of Highway Hall, the facility’s entrance and gathering space. ATCC continues to offer select naming and recognition opportunities for donors who wish to invest these DEED 5-star occupations.

Once completed, the facility will expand ATCC’s ability to deliver cutting-edge instruction, strengthen workforce partnerships, and address the growing demand for skilled transportation professionals across Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.

The Central Specialties Transportation Center at ATCC is expected to open to students in Fall 2027. Construction of the facility is underway, with a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for August 2027.

By relocating the transportation programs into the new facility, ATCC will also vacate critical space in its north campus building, paving the way for a dedicated Student Center designed to enhance campus life for the entire student body.