Exciting New Educational Facility Coming to Hartsville, Promising Growth and Opportunities for Local Students

Exciting News for Hartsville: New Educational Facility on the Way!

Hartsville, S.C. is buzzing with excitement after the recent announcement that Florence-Darlington Technical College is set to build a new campus right in town. This decision is sure to have a positive impact on local residents and the economy alike, providing much-needed educational resources and training programs tailored to the needs of the community.

A Commitment to Local Education

The college’s president, Dr. Jermaine Ford, shared his enthusiasm during the announcement. He emphasized the importance of making educational opportunities more accessible to the Hartsville area. “By expanding our presence in Hartsville, we’re committed to making educational opportunities more accessible and aligning our programs with the workforce demands of the region,” Dr. Ford stated. It’s evident that the college is dedicated to providing quality education and workforce training particularly in key industries such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing.

Support from Local Leaders

State Senator Gerald Malloy, a long-time advocate for educational expansion in Hartsville, expressed his support for the new facility passionately. He stated, “The people of Hartsville, and Darlington County as a whole, deserve easy access to top-notch educational opportunities.” This sentiment captures the heart of the community’s need for education that keeps pace with the ever-changing job market.

Senator Malloy was instrumental in securing $30 million in funding for this project. His efforts reflect a deep commitment to creating valuable training options for local students, as he noted: “With the growing demand for skilled trades and closing the talent shortage, the investment into Florence-Darlington Technical College’s Hartsville campus is an investment to the future generations of our Pee Dee region.” It’s a wonderful example of community leaders working together for the betterment of Hartsville.

Future Plans and Students Served

While the exact location of the new campus hasn’t been finalized yet, the planning stages are well underway. The college is carefully considering options that would best serve the community. Currently, FDTC operates an off-campus site in Hartsville, which has successfully served over 498 students. The expansion is expected to accommodate over 500 students annually. This means that more local residents will have access to the training they need to secure good jobs in the region.

Moreover, this new facility will significantly benefit students from the Darlington County School District through the college’s dual enrollment program, which supports more than 100 students. This program allows high school students to earn college credit while still in school, bridging the gap between education and workforce readiness.

Strengthening the Community

Dr. Ershela Sims, the FDTC area commission chairwoman, expressed her excitement about the growth this facility represents. “We are excited for the growth this facility could mean for the citizens of Hartsville and the surrounding areas. By investing in these new facilities, we’re not only expanding access to quality education but also strengthening our workforce to meet the demands of key industries in our region,” she said.

The development of this new educational facility not only promises to equip students with the skills they need but also aims to uplift the entire Hartsville community. With a focus on aligning educational offerings with local job markets, this initiative will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to the local economy.

Looking Ahead

As plans continue to move forward, Hartsville residents and local leaders alike are eagerly anticipating the new opportunities this campus will bring. This investment in education is a step toward a brighter future for both students and the community as a whole. The pathway to a stronger, more skilled workforce in Hartsville is being paved, and it is sure to create lasting benefits for generations to come. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development!