Stockton Unified School District (SUSD) held a groundbreaking ceremony this week for its new gymnasium/multi-purpose building on the campus of Weber Institute of Applied Sciences & Technology in downtown Stockton, California. The HMC-designed building will be a major improvement to the campus, providing a much-needed central hub and gathering place for the school. Currently, the only gathering place on campus is a small grass frontage strip along busy Weber Avenue.

In her remarks, SUSD Superintendent Dr. Michelle Rodriguez related how this project was initiated through the sustained efforts and advocacy of parents and students over seven years. Director of Facilities and Planning Vickie Brum also spoke at the event, as did students, staff, and members of the school board. Attending the event were HMC Principal-in-Charge Jennifer Huang and several members of the Roebbelen Contracting team.

The 10,530 SF design is a contemporary interpretation of mid-century elements that connect back to the original campus design. The upper level is wrapped in horizontal clerestory windows, creating welcoming, light-filled interior spaces that will support a range of activities, including athletics, dining, assemblies, and community events.

The project scope also includes HVAC and reroof work on an adjacent building, with conversion of existing spaces into changing rooms, coach offices, and a weight room.

The Weber Institute of Applied Sciences & Technology serves 360 students in grades 9–12. It is a learning environment that blends traditional academics with hands-on career and technical education (CTE) pathways that emphasize college and career readiness.

Within the school, there are three main academies:

The Technology Academy offers courses in web design, programming, multimedia, game design, digital arts, CAD, 3D modeling, and other design software.

The Healthcare Academy provides the foundations of health and medical careers, with classroom environments modeled after clinical settings.

The Automotive Academy focuses on vehicle diagnostics, repair, and modification, one of the more advanced high school auto programs in the region.

The improvement to this campus, located beside the waterway and marina in central Stockton, is important to a city that faces ongoing challenges in its urban core. A potential adjacent development by the City of Stockton was mentioned at the event. Strengthening a downtown school like Weber will connect education to real workforce opportunities and improve neighborhood safety. This investment in the Weber Institute of Applied Sciences & Technology will contribute to student success and to a broader civic revitalization.

This project is expected to be completed in summer 2027.