EFSC Opens New Center for Innovative Technology Education

Eastern Florida State College celebrated the grand opening of its new Center for Innovative Technology Education (CITE) on Monday at the Melbourne Campus. The facility is designed to prepare the future workforce of Florida’s Space Coast through cutting-edge training and education.

College and civic leaders hailed the opening as a major advancement in high-tech education that will set a new regional standard.

“Today is a momentous occasion,” said College President Dr. Jim Richey. “This building is more than just steel, glass, and stone — it is a symbol of progress, promise, and the power of education to transform lives.”

The $20 million, 31,500-square-foot facility will host programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and college certificates in fields such as:

• Business
• Engineering Technology (Advanced Manufacturing, Robotics, Mechatronics)
• Cybersecurity
• Drafting
• Graphics
• Computer Science (Programming & Networking)

Dr. Richey expressed gratitude to the College’s Board of Trustees for their leadership and support and gave special recognition to the lawmakers who helped make CITE a reality: State Rep. Tyler Sirois, State Sen. Tom Wright, former State Rep. Rene Plasencia, and former Speaker of the House Steve Crisafulli.

CITE features flexible labs equipped with advanced technology used by high-tech employers, simulation labs, and collaborative spaces where students can work in teams to solve real-world problems. Select programs will also incorporate virtual reality and artificial intelligence to enhance learning.

Training at CITE can be customized to meet the specific needs of individual companies, offering opportunities to expand their workforce and provides continuing education for current employees.

“We’re not just opening a building,” added Richey. “We’re opening doors to innovation and opportunity.” The facility was designed by HKS Architects, Inc., with Ajax Company serving as the primary contractor.

Eastern Florida State College serves more than 18,000 students annually across four campuses in Brevard County and online. Learn more at easternflorida.edu.

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