The moment underscored the collaboration among the Platte County R-3 School District, partner school districts, project stakeholders and the broader community in advancing a shared workforce development vision. | Photo Credit: JE Dunn
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Construction has reached a key milestone on the Northland Workforce Development Center, as JE Dunn Construction and project partners recently celebrated the topping out of the new facility. The event marked the placement of the final structural steel beam for the project, signaling significant progress on the 145,000-square-foot, two-story building designed to expand access to career and technical education across the Northland region.
Prior to the beam’s installation, attendees participated in a traditional beam-signing ceremony, adding their names and messages to a steel beam bearing project and partner logos. The moment underscored the collaboration among the Platte County R-3 School District, partner school districts, project stakeholders and the broader community in advancing a shared workforce development vision.
“This project is about creating opportunities and pathways for the next generation of skilled professionals in our region,” said Brad Hokanson, Project Executive at JE Dunn Construction. “Reaching the topping out milestone is a testament to the collaboration between the district, design team, and trade partners who are bringing this innovative learning environment to life.”
The Northland Workforce Development Center is designed to support programs in skilled trades, manufacturing, health sciences and human services. Once complete, the facility will expand the capacity of Northland Career Center and its partners, serving both high school students and adult learners seeking industry-aligned training and credentials.
Planned program spaces include flexible labs and classrooms, hands-on training environments and technology-rich areas that reflect real-world workplace conditions. Located in the Northland region of Kansas City, the project is progressing on schedule, with substantial completion targeted in 2027 and a summer opening anticipated following the structural milestone.
“With support from the State of Missouri, local municipalities, businesses and industries, individual investors, and community foundations, we are making a long-term investment in the success of our students and the future of our region,” said Brian Noller, Executive Director of Business Services and NWDC Campaign Lead at Platte County School District. “The Northland Workforce Development Center will open doors to high-demand career opportunities, strengthen employers across the Kansas City area, and help ensure our community remains competitive for years to come.”
JE Dunn is serving as construction manager for the project, working in partnership with the school district and design firm Clark & Enersen. The project team has emphasized safety, schedule adherence and coordination throughout construction, while maintaining communication with stakeholders and minimizing disruption to nearby facilities.
The Northland Workforce Development Center represents a regional investment in workforce readiness, aligning educational infrastructure with evolving industry needs and supporting long-term economic development in the Kansas City area.