Columbus Technical College is proud to announce a generous $100,000 donation from the Development Authority of Columbus in support of its upcoming Col. Ralph Puckett Jr. Veterans Education Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Workforce Development Center. The center will provide essential educational, career, and support services to exiting military personnel, veterans, their families, and residents of South Columbus.

A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, 2025, to launch construction of the center, which will be located on Fort Benning Road. In addition to academic and workforce training programs, the college will partner with local, regional, and state agencies to bring critical community resources under one roof — including veterans assistance, financial literacy, and other support services.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Development Authority for this investment in our mission to serve those who have served,” said Martha Ann Todd, President of Columbus Technical College. “This new center will strengthen our commitment to providing opportunity, access, and workforce readiness to our military families and to the residents of South Columbus.” 

The Development Authority of Columbus sees the VECTR Center as a strategic investment in the region’s future workforce.

“This project reflects the best of what can happen when a community comes together to support our military and local citizens,” said Selvin Hollinsworth, Chair of the Development Authority of Columbus. “We are proud to invest in a facility that not only honors our veterans but also helps build a stronger, more resilient workforce right here in Columbus.” 

Missy Kendrick, President and CEO of Choose Columbus, emphasized the long-term economic impact of the center:

“The VECTR Center represents a game-changing opportunity to support both our military community and workforce development in South Columbus. By offering high-demand training and transitional resources, Columbus Tech is helping to ensure our region remains competitive, inclusive, and prepared for the future.” 

Once complete, the VECTR Center will serve as a one-stop hub designed to streamline the transition from military service to civilian life, offering accelerated training, credentialing, and job placement support. The facility will also be open to the public, providing access to in-demand training opportunities and career services that address the specific needs of the South Columbus area.

More details about the Col. Ralph Puckett Jr. VECTR Workforce Development Center will be shared in the coming weeks.