Merced, California, college is building $22 million agricultural innovation facility

Merced College in Merced, California, is ready to break ground on a $22 million AgTEC Innovation Center, a project that aims to prepare students for advanced manufacturing in agricultural food systems.

The Merced Sun-Star reports that the AgTEC Innovation Center will be the first of its kind at any California community college. Construction of the projected 20,000-square-foot facility is expected to be completed in 2027. Over 1,200 students are enrolled in agricultural classes at Merced College. 

The college says the facility will house spaces designed to support hands-on learning and industry collaboration, including:

• Advanced Processing Equipment – Students will train on cutting-edge nut, fruit, and vegetable processing equipment, as well as meat processing and food safety systems, mirroring real-world agricultural operations.
• Agricultural Research & Development – A nutrition facility and commercial kitchen will support food product innovation and testing.
• Workforce Training Hub – Dedicated spaces for industry-led training, career development, and entrepreneurship initiatives.
• Community Farm Market – A retail storefront where students will gain agribusiness experience while providing fresh, locally grown products to the public.