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Aiken Technical College has begun construction on a new Nursing Education Center, a $24 million facility expected to open in 2027. This 30,000-square-foot center will enhance nursing programs aimed at addressing South Carolina’s projected nursing shortage. Funding includes support from a settlement agreement, and the center will feature advanced training facilities. The project is seen as vital for improving local healthcare education and addressing critical workforce needs in the region.

Aiken, South Carolina – Aiken Technical College has officially broken ground on its new Nursing Education Center, a facility anticipated to cost $24 million and set to open in 2027. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on May 19, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the college and the local healthcare community.

The Nursing Education Center will occupy a 30,000-square-foot space on the southeastern corner of the campus, notably visible from Jefferson Davis Highway. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as home to several vital programs including registered nursing, licensed practical nursing, and patient care technician training. It is expected to play a crucial role in addressing a critical shortage of healthcare professionals as South Carolina faces a projected deficit of over 13,000 nursing vacancies by 2036.

Funding for the center includes $11.5 million acquired from a $600 million settlement agreement between the U.S. Department of Energy and the State of South Carolina. The allocation reflects the sustained investment in education and health in the region, receiving robust support from local legislative officials and the Aiken County Council.

Key features of the Nursing Education Center will include:

Auditorium seating for lectures and presentations
Skills laboratories for hands-on training
Simulation laboratories designed to offer realistic patient care scenarios
Additional office space for faculty

Currently, Aiken Technical College’s nursing program is limited to an enrollment cap of 160 students. The new center aims to enhance the training environment and expand capacity, ultimately enabling the college to better serve both recent high school graduates and adults looking to transition into healthcare careers.

The construction phase of the Nursing Education Center is expected to last approximately 18 months. Once completed, the facility will not only provide a modern learning environment but also contribute to the overall health and well-being of the Aiken community.

Hannah Williams, the dean of the School of Nursing, described the center as a significant investment in the future of local healthcare. She underscored the project’s importance in not just meeting educational needs, but also in enhancing the quality of healthcare delivered in the community.

Matthew Merrifield, CEO of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, noted that the new center has the potential to elevate nursing education and attract new individuals into the field, which is crucial for mitigating the nursing shortage. The establishment of this center is a significant step towards ensuring that the region is well-equipped with qualified healthcare professionals.

This project aligns with the growing recognition of the need for comprehensive nursing education, essential for sustaining healthcare systems in Aiken and beyond. As the demand for skilled nursing professionals continues to rise, Aiken Technical College’s new Nursing Education Center stands as a beacon for future healthcare advancements.

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Author: hereaiken