TSTC Abilene Industrial Tech Center
In response to a 2014 regional economic and workforce analysis, Texas State Technical College (TSTC) embarked on the creation of a 52-acre campus adjacent to Abilene Regional Airport.
A Bold, Efficient Campus
The centerpiece of this new campus, the Industrial Technology Center (ITC), opened in August 2018 and serves as a critical hub for student services, labs, and programs in Industrial Maintenance, Welding, EMS, and Electrical Power Technology. The ITC’s design merges function and inspiration, with a simple geometric form shaped to accommodate the tight budget while embodying TSTC’s visionary goals.
Learning Meets Innovation
Clad in durable metal, the wedge-shaped building is softened by local limestone and native landscaping, while its gently sloping roof mirrors the nearby flight paths of aircraft. Horizontal ribbon windows allow natural light to flood classrooms, labs, and offices, promoting visibility and openness. The design prioritizes transparency, with industry-specific equipment in view from common areas, making the building itself a learning tool.
Setting the Standard
Under budget at $193 per square foot, the ITC sets a high bar for future campus development, combining efficient space planning and durable materials with an engaging educational environment. The result is a facility that not only meets the workforce training needs of the region but also reflects TSTC’s forward-thinking approach to education.
