Since opening on January 8, the new Center for Accelerated Training (CAT) facility at Valencia College’s Osceola Campus offers students access to accelerated skills training programs and nationally recognized industry certifications. Our design for the 14,700-sf center houses short-term training courses to support local workforce needs. This is the third CAT facility to open at Valencia College; we designed the original CAT prototype facility, which opened on the Poinciana Campus in 2017.

The new facility consists of ten classrooms, a computer lab for instruction and hands-on activities, and a large bay area for skills training. Programs include technical training for apartment maintenance, carpentry, clinical medical assisting, core construction, heavy construction equipment, roofing, transportation logistics, and warehouse packaging.

“We are excited to continue our partnership with Valencia College and to deliver beautiful and functional facilities that meet the educational needs of its students,” said Principal Nicole Nichols, AIA. “The new CAT facility is designed with a mix of labs, classrooms, and breakout spaces, allowing students to master skillsets necessary to immediately enter the workforce.”

In addition to preparing workers for high-demand careers, the $4.5 million facility also features classrooms to house Valencia’s English programs for non-native speakers, as well as conversational Spanish and Portuguese classes.

“We’re very excited to provide the Osceola County community with a space where students can pursue careers that might lead to higher wage employment,” said Joe Battista, vice president of Global, Professional, and Continuing Education at Valencia College. “These programs provide the adult student an alternative way to attend college in an intensive six to 20 weeks of education and training.”