TSTC Alumni Collaborate to Construct $72 Million Facility for Future Skilled Trades

TSTC Alumni Return to Build a New Facility

In a heartwarming turn of events, five graduates from Texas State Technical College (TSTC) have returned to their alma mater—not in the usual capacity of students, but as integral contributors to the construction of a new $72 million Construction Technologies Center. This modern facility, which spans 120,000 square feet, has officially opened its doors to students on February 2, 2026.

Scheduled for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 26, 2026, this facility is designed to centralize various trades programs, including Building Construction Technology, Electrical Construction, HVAC Technology, Plumbing and Pipefitting Technology, and Solar Energy Technology. The initiative aims to create a hub that provides hands-on education for aspiring trades professionals.

A Proud Legacy of Giving Back

The TSTC alumni involved in this project include Seth Blanchard, James Stefka Jr., Ulises Camacho, William Holmes III, and Daniel Sprinkle, all of whom graduated between 2016 and 2024. For Blanchard, who serves as the Project Manager, the project is particularly significant. He expresses, "TSTC helped launch my career, so getting the chance to come back and build the facility where the next generation will learn these trades is something really special."

Daniel Sprinkle, who joined the team as an intern before graduating, also underscores the unique opportunity this project provided. "Being part of this team while I was still a student was a once-in-a-lifetime experience," he states. The alumni's involvement does more than just acknowledge their roots; it solidifies a strong tie between education and practical application in the construction industry.

Meeting the Demand for Skilled Trades

The construction of this new facility is not just a project; it is part of a broader strategy to address the growing demand for skilled trades professionals in Texas and beyond. As the need for trained workers rises, TSTC is committed to equipping students with the skills necessary for today’s job markets. This collaboration between Rogers-O'Brien Construction (RO) and TSTC aims to strengthen the pipeline of skilled workers, ensuring that graduates are ready for the challenges that lie ahead.

Braylon Byford, Director of RO Waco, emphasizes the importance of this investment: "At RO, we talk about building a better Texas, and that starts with investing in the people who will build it. We're excited to have built this space because TSTC is preparing the skilled workforce our industry depends on."

The Future of Trades Education

The new Construction Technologies Center symbolizes more than just bricks and mortar; it represents a commitment to education and the future of skilled trades. With plans to continually evolve the curriculum in partnership with RO, TSTC aims to ensure that its students gain the relevant skills and experience needed in today’s dynamic job environments.

As TSTC alumni lead the way in this transformative project, they not only contribute to the physical building but also pave the way for future generations, bolstering the skilled trades industry at a critical time.

For those interested in witnessing the culmination of hard work and dedication, the upcoming ribbon cutting will be a celebration of the connections made between education, industry, and the commitment to building a skilled workforce in Texas.