Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for Heman Drummond Center of Innovation
This week, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Heman Drummond Center of Innovation (HDCI) took place at 3515 Industrial Way. This new educational facility aims to significantly enhance workforce development for high school students in Alabama.
Located in Jasper’s Industrial Park, HDCI is positioned to foster partnerships between students and industry. The center is set to open its doors to its first students in the fall of 2026. The 120,000-square-foot facility, costing $80 million, is currently owned by the Walker Area Community Foundation, with plans to transfer ownership to the Walker County school system once construction reaches a certain stage.
“The new Heman Drummond Innovation Center will stand as a prime example of Alabama’s commitment to career tech,” stated Gov. Kay Ivy. “It’s poised to change many lives and is timely given the state’s growth, which greatly needs well-trained workers.”
Upon completion, the center is expected to serve around 2,100 students, offering hands-on learning in high-demand fields like cyber technology, robotics, healthcare, automotive, and construction. Students will gain access to industry certifications, university-level technical courses, mentorships, apprenticeships, and internships that provide real-world experience.
“HDCI represents a significant leap toward preparing future generations for an ever-changing job landscape,” commented Greg Reid, Director General of the Alabama Department of Labor and Power.
The center will also incorporate interdisciplinary projects, entrepreneurship incubators, and strong community partnerships aimed at bolstering student readiness for both career paths and higher education.
“This space will benefit students not just academically, but in practical ways through community support and entrepreneurship,” added an education official. It seems pretty clear that this initiative focuses on equipping students for important careers and further studies.
The HDCI aims to foster intergenerational change by providing students with necessary skills and experiences that allow them to engage effectively in a thriving workforce, thus contributing positively to the local economy.
“Local leaders, schools, and educational partners agree that investing in new careers and technical education (CTE) is crucial for the future,” remarked Paul W. Kennedy, president of the Walker Area Community Foundation. “Their concerted efforts and financial contributions underline the urgent need for modern facilities that align with current workforce demands.”
This initiative has garnered support from the Walker Area Community Foundation and the Drummond Family, along with funding from the state of Alabama. Recognition for the project will extend to Governor Ivy, Secretary Reid, and Representative Matt Woods, with significant advocacy efforts led by Dr. Dennis Willingham and Dr. Anne Jackson.
HDCI plans to feature specialized academies for coding, digital media, cybersecurity, and biotechnology, equipped with advanced tools and software that replicate real-world work scenarios. The goal is to provide students with credentials and an effortless path to higher education.
In addition to technical training, entrepreneurial resources will be available, including workshops on business planning, marketing, and finance. Community involvement will play a crucial role, with local businesses offering internships and job shadowing opportunities.
So far, 85% of the funding needed for HDCI has been secured, with the remaining 15% being sought through grants, private partnerships, and community backing.
