ALLEGAN, Mich. — A new automotive technology building for students in Allegan County was unveiled Thursday.

The Allegan Area ESA Tech Center cut the ribbon to its new facility for hands-on learning and career preparation in the automotive industry.

Allegan Superintendent William Brown and Michigan Department of Education State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice were in attendance.

“Excited is an understatement,” Brown said. “Because of the opportunities, this is going to give our students to further their career that will have an ultimate impact on the community –and I feel very grateful.”

Following the ceremony, guests were invited to attend an open house to explore the new building, featuring two 1,700 square-foot classrooms and two 7,000 square-foot, hands-on workshops. Attendees received guided tours, live demonstrations and opportunities to meet instructors as well as students of the program.

Participants of the auto tech classes have the opportunity to receive ASE certifications and “employability upon graduation,” organizers said.

Classes are available to both high schoolers and adults, according to Brown.

“We’re centrally located in the county,” he said. “So, not only do we provide those educational services to high school-age students, we also do adult education classes –and being centrally located, it makes it easier for anyone in the county to access the services.”

More information about the Allegan Area ESA can be found online.