Heman Drummond Center of Innovation breaks ground in Jasper

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Heman Drummond Center of Innovation (HDCI) was held this week at 3515 Industrial Way, signaling the launch of a pioneering educational facility aimed at transforming workforce development for high school students in Alabama.

Set within Jasper’s Industrial Park, the HDCI is strategically located to foster student-industry partnerships and is expected to welcome its first students in fall 2026. The $80 million, 120,000-square-foot facility is being developed by the Walker Area Community Foundation, which currently owns the property. Upon construction being substantially completed, ownership and operations will transfer to the Walker County School System.

“The new Heman Drummond Center of Innovation will become the best example of career tech in Alabama,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “Not only is it going to change thousands of lives, but it will also open its doors at exactly the right time. Alabama is seeing tremendous growth in good jobs, but we need more highly trained workers. The Drummond Center of Innovation is a life-changing gift of opportunity for successful careers for generations of Walker County’s young people.”

Once complete, the facility will serve approximately 2,100 students and offer hands-on learning in high-demand fields such as cyber IT, robotics, healthcare, automotive, and construction. Students will have access to industry certifications, college-level technical coursework, and real-world experiences, including mentorships, apprenticeships, and internships.

“HDCI represents a bold step forward in preparing the next generation for success in an ever-evolving job market,” said Secretary Greg Reed of the Alabama Department of Workforce.

The center will also include interdisciplinary projects, an entrepreneurship incubator, and extensive community partnerships designed to enhance students’ readiness for both careers and higher education.

“This new location will serve the students well with interdisciplinary projects, an entrepreneurship incubator, and strong community partnerships will further prepare students for high-demand careers or higher education,” said Dr. Dennis Willingham, Superintendent of Walker County Schools.

The mission of HDCI is to foster generational change by equipping students with the skills and experience needed to join a thriving workforce and contribute meaningfully to the local economy.

“Local leaders, school officials, and education partners agree that a new Career and Technical Education (CTE) school is an essential investment in the region’s future,” said Paul W. Kennedy, President of the Walker Area Community Foundation. “Their support, strategic planning, and financial investment demonstrate a clear and pressing necessity for a contemporary facility that aligns with the current demands of the workforce.”

The initiative is supported by leadership from the Walker Area Community Foundation and the Drummond Family, as well as financial investments from the State of Alabama, with special recognition to Governor Ivey, Secretary Reed, and Representative Matt Woods. The efforts of Dr. Dennis Willingham and Dr. Ann Jackson have also been instrumental in championing this project.

Plans for HDCI include specialized academies in coding, digital media, cybersecurity, and biotechnology, each equipped with advanced tools and software to simulate real-world work environments. The programs are designed to give students a competitive edge through credentialing and seamless transitions to higher education.

In addition to technical training, students will benefit from entrepreneurial resources, including workshops on business planning, marketing, and finance. Community engagement will also be a key component, with local businesses providing internships, job shadowing, and service opportunities.

To date, 85% of the funding needed for HDCI has been secured. The remaining 15% is being pursued through grants, private partnerships, and community support.

Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].