Kalamazoo County is about to reach a significant milestone in career and technical education. After years of planning, community investment, and input, Kalamazoo RESA (KRESA) is set to unveil the county’s new state-of-the-art Career Connect Campus. Parents, students, educators, and community members are invited to celebrate this achievement on May 22, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at 3500 Vanrick Drive.

Fulfilling the Community’s Vision

In 2019, local voters approved a dedicated CTE millage to expand educational opportunities, bolster workforce readiness, and foster economic growth in Kalamazoo County. The new Career Connect Campus represents the culmination of that investment: a modern, dynamic learning environment designed to empower students for high-demand, high-paying careers.

By integrating classroom learning with real-world experience, KRESA’s Career Connect programs provide students with a powerful head start toward college and career success. Local businesses also benefit by tapping into a pipeline of skilled, job-ready graduates. Whether a student’s dream involves building a prototype in a high-tech manufacturing lab or caring for patients in a simulated medical setting, the Career Connect Campus aims to nurture tomorrow’s workforce and propel the local economy forward.

“We are excited and proud to open the doors of the Career Connect Campus,” said Eric Stewart, KRESA’s Assistant Superintendent for Career and Talent Development. “This facility is the next big step for our community, one that will benefit our students, families, and local employers for years to come.”

Explore Innovation and State-of-the-Art Facilities

The Career Connect Campus has been built with collaboration and hands-on learning at its core. From cutting-edge labs equipped with advanced technology to flexible classroom spaces encouraging teamwork and innovation, every aspect has been thoughtfully designed to ignite curiosity and prepare students for success.

During the grand opening event, visitors will have the opportunity to:

• Tour world-class facilities: Explore state-of-the-art labs, workshops, and learning spaces.
• Meet the team: Get to know the dedicated instructors, career mentors, and support staff.
• Discover program possibilities: See firsthand how these programs prepare students for in-demand industries, from healthcare and information technology to skilled trades and beyond.

Be a Part of History: Join the Celebration on May 22

The community is invited to see how the next generation of students is being equipped for success in high-demand careers at an upcoming Grand Opening event. Don’t miss this opportunity to walk the halls of Kalamazoo’s newest center for hands-on education and career training.

Save the date for the Career Connect Campus Grand Opening Celebration:

• When: May 22, 2025, 4:00–7:00 p.m.
• Where: 3500 Vanrick Drive, Kalamazoo

For more information about the grand opening and KRESA’s Career Connect programs, visit kresa.org/careerconnect