Elgin Community College secures $2M in federal funding for new Manufacturing and Technology Center
Elgin Community College is expected to receive $2 million in federal funding that will be used to expand hands-on educational opportunities for students when the school opens its new Manufacturing and Technology Center this fall.
U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi secured the money, which was approved through the annual federal appropriations process.
ECC officials said in a news release that the funding will be used to purchase advanced manufacturing training equipment for the MTC, “strengthening student access to high-wage, in-demand career pathways across the region.”
“We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Krishnamoorthi for his continued advocacy on behalf of our students and community,” ECC President Peggy Heinrich said in a statement. “This $2 million investment ensures that our students will train on the same advanced equipment used in today’s manufacturing environments. It directly supports workforce readiness and creates clear pathways to family-sustaining careers.”
The roughly $85 million facility, which broke ground in fall 2025, represents one of the most significant capital investments in the college’s history.
The 150,000-square-foot MTC building will house programs in advanced manufacturing, automation, robotics, HVAC, welding and other disciplines designed to meet the evolving workforce needs of local employers.
“The Manufacturing and Technology Center is about more than a building,” Heinrich said in the release. “It is about expanding opportunity — connecting students to high-growth industries and helping local businesses thrive through a skilled workforce.”
Equipment purchased through the appropriation will support instruction across multiple programs and ensure students gain experience using industry-standard technology, according to ECC officials.
The MTC will serve students pursuing associate degrees, certificates and short-term credentials, as well as people in the workforce seeking up-skilling opportunities.
The facility is expected to significantly increase enrollment capacity in manufacturing and technology programs while strengthening partnerships with regional employers.