By Kellie Houx
KHoux@cherryroad.com
KANSAS CITY NORTH — A project of more than seven years in the making will grow in the eastern corner of Platte County but its development will impact students from both Clay and Platte counties.
On Aug. 27, community and state leaders and educators from all over the Northland gathered on North Platte Purchase Road, situated behind Platte Purchase Middle School for the ground breaking on the Northland Workforce Development Center.
Educational leaders from all over the Northland are part of the board of directors, including Christy Collins, director of College & Career Pathways with the North Kansas City School District and president of the NWDC board, kicked off the event. She said the center will transform lives and strengthen Kansas City.
Brian Noller, executive director of business services and campaign lead, said the center began as a quest or journey for him in May 2018.
“We see dirt moving,” he said. “What we have is grounded in research and funding.”
He spoke about the many state legislators that have supported the center and found $37 million. He also thanked the city of Kansas City for its commitment of $25 million.
State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer called this is a pivotal moment for the Northland that will help fill the jobs of tomorrow. He saw the need with the limited space at the current center.
“Here it is serving the two fastest growing counties in the state,” he said. “It was clear that something needed to change. … When this is constructed, there will be 23 career pathways. This includes fields in construction. manufacturing, law enforcement and health care. It is an answer to a growing and complex economy. We are expanding those educational opportunities for future generations. This center will benefit our region and our state, guaranteeing a more prosperous future for our families.”
He helped secure the $37 million commitment from the state and thanks former Gov. Mike Parson for approving the funding.
Along with Kansas City, Riverside, Gladstone, Smithville, Parkville and the Clay County government have made commitments to the project.
Educational foundations have also made gifts including Kearney, Smithville, Liberty, Park Hill and Platte County.
Platte R-3 Superintendent Jay Harris called the day a chance to break open opportunities for students and for the local economy,
“We asked ourselves how do we give students more pathways to success,” he said. “With this generosity we are building bright futures.”
The facility will sit on 19 acres and include programs in IT, aviation, law enforcement and health care.
“Lessons will simulate real-world experiences,” he said. “Plus adults will be welcomed in the evenings and weekends. It is more than a building; it’s a partnership between education and industry.”
Kansas City Councilman Nathan Willet, who is also a teacher, praised the center being in the heart of the Northland.
“The center will break down barriers. The students here will be learning real-world skills,” he said.
Riverside Mayor Kathy Rose said the common theme of stability, growth and purpose is key.
“The skilled trades have long been undervalued. This center will open doors,” she said. “Educators, local businesses, community leaders and the future workforce itself will be impacted. Here will be a place to build a career you are proud of. It will result in a stronger, more prepared future for all.”
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said, “We get along for all the right things with this bipartisan effort.”
Parson said it’s not about adults, but it’s about a path forward for the students who will make it a better path in the state.
“It will be the model not only for the state, but for the nation,” he said.
