Governor Mike DeWine, Superintendent Shelley Groves, and Eastland-Fairfield leaders cut a large orange ribbon alongside students and staff during the grand opening of the NextGen Training Center.

Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools officially opened the doors to its brand-new NextGen Training Center on Tuesday, November 4, celebrating an exciting step forward for students and workforce development in central Ohio.

The celebration brought together Governor Mike DeWine, members of the Eastland-Fairfield Board of Education, Superintendent/CEO Shelley Groves, local officials, business partners, and students to mark the completion of this innovative new space.

Located on the Fairfield Career Center campus, the 34,068-square-foot facility was built to give students even more opportunities for hands-on learning. It’s home to a second high school Welding program, a new Powerline program, new classrooms, and space to grow as career fields and industry needs evolve.

“This facility represents an investment not only in our students but in the future of Ohio’s workforce,” said Superintendent Shelley Groves. “The NextGen Training Center will prepare high school students and adult learners for in-demand careers while strengthening the connection between education, business, and community.”

After the ribbon was cut, guests toured the new space, met students, and watched live demonstrations highlighting the real-world skills being taught in Eastland-Fairfield programs.

The project was made possible through a mix of state grant funding and district investment, reflecting a shared commitment to expanding access to modern, career-focused education.