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Renovations are underway at the Valley campus of Southern Union State Community College. Most of John R. Carmichael building is undergoing an extensive renovation to expand existing and introduce new programs to the campus. 

“Almost every room in that building has been touched,” said Robin Brown, Associate Dean of Institutional Effectiveness. 

Renovations began in April and are projected to be completed in mid-December. During the fall semester, some classes will be moved online while others will be temporarily housed on the Opelika campus. 

An elevated lecture room has received new paint and carpeting as well as new seating. The seating in there has not been replaced for years, according to Brown. Not only that but the campus will have a new library, a redesigned reception area and renovated restrooms.

The building is also getting a technology upgrade. Each classroom will receive brand-new smart TVs in addition to the projectors. The building itself will receive upgraded WiFi. 

The campus’s community room is also getting a refresh with a new coat of paint. Individuals and community organizations can host events there, and if an organization that benefits the community rents the room, then SUSCC will sponsor that event, Brown said. 

“One of the reasons they wanted the renovation was to accommodate an expansion in programs and new programs,” Brown said. “In the fall, in our technical building, we’re going to have the second year Aviation Maintenance Technology.”

The two new programs, Aviation Maintenance Techonology and Veterinary Techonology will be introduced to the Valley campus later this year. The AMT is a second-year course that funnels students from the Opelika campus, whereas the Vet Tech course is a brand-new one introduced in Valley. 

“It turns out that a large number of people in aviation maintenance are nearing retirement age, so there’s a big demand,” Brown said. 

Other existing programs at the campus that are getting an expansion are Medical Assistance Technology, Physical Therapy Techonology, Electrical Techonology and Adult Education. 

Brown said that they are very hopeful that students will enjoy the renovated campus.

“It’s a very student-friendly environment,” she said. 

“The facility is just beautiful. I hope it’s going to make an impact on the workforce for the Valley community,” Brown said. “Because what our president, [Todd] Shackett, always says is that if there’s a program that’s needed in an area and we can be notified about workforce development in other industries, then we’re willing to try to offer the program.”

This year, Brown said, the Valley campus will also have student government officers on campus for the first time. They are planning different activities for the students.