News

Welding Technology Center

We are thrilled to announce that the Welding Technology Center at Southeast Community College has officially opened its doors on August 21, 2025. Spanning 80,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art facility was purpose-built to meet the growing demand for skilled trades and stands as one of the largest and most advanced welding facilities in the country. With 196 fully equipped welding booths and enrollment already at capacity with more than 240 students, the response has been extraordinary.

The SCC Welding program is one of the longest running programs at the College, and the new facility represents a continued investment in Nebraska’s workforce. With its scale and advanced equipment, the center will serve as a premier training ground for students across the region, equipping them with the skills needed to meet industry demand and strengthen our local economy. Bays designed for semi-trucks to pull in and unload materials safely, supported by an overhead bridge crane to assist with handling heavy items, provides students with hands-on experience in real-world industrial processes, preparing them for the unique spaces of modern manufacturing and fabrication.  

The facility not only features the highest number of welding bays on any college campus nationwide, but also distinguishes itself through strong partnerships with local industries. Dedicated spaces allow businesses to bring their workforce right to campus for tailored training sessions, ensuring their teams stay sharp with the latest welding advancements. Adding to this cutting-edge environment, global leaders in welding technology have contributed brand-new equipment, giving students access to tools and techniques that are just hitting the market. For example, SCC is the first in the U.S. to introduce new Fronius welding systems, placing students and partners at the forefront of innovation.

We are deeply grateful to our donors for helping make this vision a reality. Construction of the Welding Technology Center began in March 2023, and was made possible through a combination of taxpayer support and generous contributions from donors. This community-backed investment expands educational opportunities at Southeast Community College and helps to build a stronger future for Nebraska.

As part of this milestone project, supporters have the opportunity to sponsor one of 196 welding booths with a gift of $5,000. Booth sponsorships offer individuals, families, businesses, and alumni a meaningful way to leave a lasting legacy while supporting hands-on education.

Names will be prominently displayed on a both in the new facility, visible to students, faculty, and industry partners for years to come.

To reserve your booth or learn more, please contact the SCC Educational Foundation at 402-323-3411.

Nebraska Hall

Nebraska Hall, built in 1920, is the oldest building on Southeast Community College’s Milford campus. Originally known as the Roosevelt Building, it once served as a hospital for the Soldiers and Sailors home. When the State Trade School opened in Milford in 1941, the building was transformed into a dormitory and cafeteria. Now, more than 80 years later, Nebraska has been thoughtfully renovated to become the central hub for student support services.

The former Milford Campus Director, Ed Koster, worked closely with the architects at Sinclair Hille to ensure that renovation honored the building’s heritage while meeting the needs of today’s students. Historic features were restored, and new interior woodwork was designed to closely mirror the original details, preserving the building’s character while updating it for modern use.

Today, Nebraska Hall stands as a bridge between the past and the future. A welcoming place where students can access the support they need to succeed. Just as this building preserves the legacy of those who came before, our donors leave their own lasting legacy through scholarships, planned gifts, and other contributions.

Want to be a part of what’s next at SCC?

Consider supporting ongoing efforts with a gift today.