The 114,000 SF, all-electric building is envisioned as a high-tech circuit. The project aims to connect department programs, industry, and the community with labs, classrooms, multipurpose rooms, and outdoor gathering spaces that support their educational journey. As today’s mechanical and machine technology industries increasingly rely on complex electrical systems, a cross-disciplinary approach to both program and building design fosters deeper integration in the education process. The architecture supports this by creating strong physical and visual connections between disciplines. Glazing along corridors provides views into lab spaces, while sticky spaces within corridors provide opportunities for collaboration and inspiration both within and across departments, while labs open onto campus circulation paths, further supporting engagement and hands-on learning across fields. Operable wall systems seamlessly link the entry plaza to flexible exhibit and multipurpose lobby spaces, which flow directly into the EV automotive labs and extend outward to the automotive yard—promoting visibility and encouraging interaction across department programs.

The connection with industry is promoted through program partnerships with Southern California Edison, sponsorships from Rivian, and a full-size Volvo EV big rig. SBVC’s Technical Education Building offers students a hands-on gateway to some of the most in-demand careers in the Inland Empire.

This high-performance facility is a flagship for the school’s net-zero energy pilot program and is a living lab for sustainable practices, maximizing efficiency and environmental stewardship in a demonstrative way. A partnership with Southern California Edison’s “Emerging Technologies Program” enabled integration of thermal chimneys throughout the automotive labs, as well as incorporation of a DC power demonstration component connected with the project’s photovoltaic glass entry canopy. Data from these systems will be utilized by the college and SCE, measuring their effectiveness and informing future projects.

The Applied Technology Building represents our commitment to providing our local students with the best education and training to excel in their careers. – Dr. Linda Fontanilla, Interim President