October 22, 2021 3:30 a,m.

Umpqua Community College is getting ready to showcase its new state-of-the-art automotive and welding education center.

A release said students interested in pursuing automotive, welding and apprenticeship technologies at UCC now have access to the latest technology and educational infrastructure after a renovation of Lockwood Hall. The new facility will be open for public viewing on November 1st from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Originally built in 1969, Lockwood Hall has been reconfigured to include expanded space for state-of-the-art hands-on instruction. The automotive facility now includes a redesigned space for improved shop flow and two new car lifts, with room to add an additional lift later. With the updated technology, students are able to learn how to work on hybrid vehicles.

The welding program previously had temporary booths that provided space for 17 welding students. After the remodel there are now two welding labs, one dedicated to aluminum welding and fabrication, and the other for welding steel. There are now 29 welding booths in the two areas.

The release said previously, Lockwood Hall had no formal entrance. Students used to enter through the men’s locker room or a hallway with a staff copy machine. Walls were removed and reconfigured which lead to additional space and a more formal entry for students.

The apprenticeship program now has a new machining and hydraulics lab and was brought on-site to the campus. It had been housed in a separate leased building. A brand-new machine shop with mills, lathes, and classroom space is available to serve Millwright Apprentices.

The project was made possible by generous donations from Con-Vey and Perry Murray. An anonymous donor provided additional funding to enable the project to be completed.