Wake Technical Community College is developing a new campus in Apex that will play a key role in preparing students for careers in biotechnology and health sciences in western Wake County. The Wake Tech Board of Trustees recently approved the master plan for the new Conlon Western Wake Campus, which is projected to open in 2029.
The campus, which will include space for specialized biotechnology and advanced manufacturing training, is adjacent to the future North Carolina Children’s Hospital and within four miles of new and expanding biopharmaceutical facilities in Holly Springs, including Amgen, CSL Seqirus, FUJIFILM Biotechnologies and Genentech.
“This campus will be a game-changer, centrally located in a growing part of western Wake County,” said Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls. “At this location, we’ll be well-positioned to meet the growing workforce needs of area businesses, especially those in the booming life sciences and health care industries.”
Campus plans unveiled
The master plan includes three academic buildings. The first building, FUJIFILM Biotechnologies Hall, will house Wake Tech’s BioWork certificate program as well as biomechatronics training and short apprenticeship programs. BioWork provides training in the fundamentals of working as a process technician in biotechnology, pharmaceutical or chemical manufacturing facilities.
The 125,000-square-foot building will also house Admissions, Financial Aid, a library, and serve as a hub for Entrepreneurship & Small Business Center resources.
Phase 1 development of the campus is funded by $115 million from the 2022 Workforce Forward bond, approved by Wake County voters. The second building, which will include space for health sciences programs, will require additional funding for design and construction…