Imperial, CA — Imperial Valley College and Erickson-Hall Construction Co. celebrated a key milestone on Oct. 17 with the topping-out of the college’s new Auto Technology, Architectural Automation, Art and Maker Space Building.
The ceremony marked the installation of the final structural beam and the completion of the building’s framework, honoring the teamwork and craftsmanship that have driven this state-of-art, career-focused educational facility forward. The topping-out ceremony followed a long-standing builders’ tradition that celebrates the safe completion of a building’s frame. Before being hoisted into place, the final beam was signed by IVC leadership, students and community partners, and adorned with an evergreen tree and an American flag to symbolize growth, safety and community pride.
“This facility represents a big leap forward for Imperial Valley College and our students,” said Lennor M. Johnson, IVC’s Superintendent/President. “The new Auto Tech Building will provide a dynamic learning environment where students can gain real-world skills in state-of-the-art labs and workshops.”
“We are grateful to Erickson-Hall for their partnership and expertise in bringing this vision to life,” said Hortencia Armendariz, IVC District Board President. “We also thank the community for making this milestone possible for our students.”
The 33,000-square-foot facility, funded by the final expenditures of the 2010 community-supported Measure J bonds and the IVC Building Fund, will transform technical education in the region by expanding hands-on learning opportunities in automotive and diesel technology. The building will feature lecture halls, computer labs, a digital photography studio with a darkroom, office and storage spaces, restrooms, changing rooms and a tool room. Designed to bring together art and STEM students, it also will foster cross-disciplinary collaboration and creativity. By housing programs in auto technology, diesel mechanics, architectural automation and the arts under one roof, the facility will serve as a hub where students merge technical problem-solving with design thinking and hands-on experimentation.The site also integrates sustainability and innovation through solar-covered parking stalls for project vehicles, designated hazardous-waste disposal areas and energy-efficient systems that align with the college’s commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible campus growth.
“The topping-out milestone is always a celebratory moment,” said Mat Gates, President of Erickson-Hall Construction Co. “It represents not only structural progress but also the collaboration and shared purpose that make these projects successful. We are proud to work alongside Imperial Valley College to create a facility that will empower students, energize the region’s workforce and strengthen the community for decades to come.”
Scheduled to open for student use in fall 2026, the new facility will stand as a symbol of collaboration, innovation and opportunity, advancing Imperial Valley College’s mission to provide transformative education that meets both student and community needs.