Grant supports hands-on training and workforce development at the Capital City Construction Lab
November 6, 2026
BATON ROUGE – Baton Rouge Community College and the BRCC Foundation have received a $50,000 grant from the Louisiana Contractors Education Foundation (LCEF) in support of the college's newly opened Capital City Construction Lab.
The grant will help strengthen BRCC's construction and skilled trades training opportunities by supporting hands-on learning, industry-standard equipment and resources that prepare students for careers in a growing industry.
“The generous support of the Louisiana Contractors Education Foundation allows us to provide students with hands-on learning experiences, industry-standard equipment and valuable resources that bridge the gap between classroom instruction and workforce expectations,” said Chandra Joseph, BRCC Dean of the Division of Business and Law. “This investment is instrumental in preparing our students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the construction industry.”
Officially opened in August 2026, the Capital City Construction Lab provides students with a unique, open-air training environment designed to simulate real-world construction job sites. The facility supports hands-on instruction in carpentry, electrical, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing and construction management.
The lab expands BRCC's ability to provide practical training that complements classroom instruction and helps students develop the technical knowledge and experience employers are seeking. It also supports the college's commitment to building clear pathways into high-demand, high-wage careers while helping meet the Capital Region's need for a skilled and qualified workforce.
Through partnerships with industry leaders and organizations like LCEF, BRCC continues to strengthen its programs, expand student opportunities and serve as a leading talent developer for the Capital Region.
“Investments like this go beyond supporting a college program. They are investments in the future of our students, our workforce and our state's economy,” said BRCC Chancellor Willie E. Smith Sr. “As the Capital Region's No. 1 talent developer, BRCC is committed to working alongside industry partners to ensure our students have access to the training, technology and real-world experiences they need to succeed. The construction industry is essential to Louisiana's continued growth, and we are proud to help prepare the next generation of skilled professionals who will build our communities and move our economy forward.”
For more information about BRCC's construction and skilled trades programs, visit mybrcc.edu.
About LCEF
LCEF increases interest in careers in construction in Louisiana through expanding education and training availability and sourcing new funding to expand where needed.
LCEF funds programs that produce skilled, credentialed workers ready to enter Louisiana's construction and industrial workforce. We prioritize training that meets or exceeds NCCER certification standards, guides students toward meaningful career opportunities, and demonstrates a commitment to improving both the quality and reach of craft education across the state.
About BRCC
Baton Rouge Community College is a leading higher education institution located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, that offers more than 100 academic and workforce programs for traditional and non-traditional students. The college generates an annual economic impact of more than $300 million, and 98% of graduates reside and contribute to the workforce in Louisiana. Through partnerships with regional employers and national organizations, BRCC provides hands-on, industry-aligned training that meets Louisiana’s evolving workforce needs.