SALINA – Salina Tech is in the process of raising a $1.8 million match to funding from the American Recovery Plan Act to build and equip a $3.78 million facility to house the Industrial Maintenance and Automation program.

The 15,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art shop, classroom, meeting and office space will house a program to educate technicians who can maintain and repair automated equipment in manufacturing facilities. The program will allow for about 20 full-time students each year. Both Great Plains and Tony’s Pizza have expressed an interest in employing technicians for their automated equipment.

In addition to a Hansen Foundation grant, the college has received funds from the capital outlay tax credit program, and a pledge from Saline County, as well as donated equipment. Private donations are being sought.