Changes are underway in the northeast corner of Glendale Community College, where construction is in progress on the college’s Innovation Lab.

Spearheaded by Susan Campbell, Dean of Academic Affairs for Career & Technical Education, and Elena Beltran, STEM Connect Program Manager, the project is designed to create a collaborative, cross-disciplinary hub to support and expand programs in cutting-edge fields such as engineering technology, robotics, automation, drone technology, computer science, data analysis, artificial intelligence, woodworking, and fabrication.

“Our vision is to build a space where innovation thrives—a dynamic environment that bridges disciplines and empowers students with hands-on, job-ready skills,” stated Campbell in a press release.

Scheduled for completion in April 2026, the facility will feature a Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality classroom and lab, a computer lab, and a fully equipped workshop. Tools and equipment will include table saws, band saws, CNC routers, lathes, mills, laser cutters, drills, 3D printers, and a welding station tailored for small-scale projects.

Once completed, the Innovation Lab will expand GCC’s course offerings and provide students with enhanced learning opportunities in engineering technology, advanced manufacturing, immersive technologies, and more.

The Innovation Lab has been three years in the making, from planning to securing funding. Architectural design was led by Holly Street Studio, while construction is being managed by Danson Construction. The site previously housed automotive classrooms, which had been decommissioned prior to the demolition of the old structure in April. A formal groundbreaking ceremony took place April 29.