The Need for a Unified, Modern CTE Space
Merrillville Community School Corporation had a clear mission: to provide students with the skills and experiences needed to thrive in today’s workforce. However, outdated and scattered facilities were limiting the potential of their career and technical education (CTE) programs.
District leaders knew that to truly prepare students for high-demand fields, they needed a purpose-built environment—one that could bring all CTE disciplines under one roof and reflect the professionalism of real-world workplaces.
The Solution: A 57,000 sq ft CTE Addition
Partnering with Performance Services, Merrillville designed a new 57,000 square foot CTE wing tailored to the unique needs of its programs. Built directly onto the high school campus, the addition includes:
- Specialized labs for automotive, welding, construction trades, and fire-rescue
- Dedicated space for future programs and student growth
- Infrastructure ready for evolving technologies and career paths
The facility’s layout was carefully considered to foster collaboration—placing complementary programs next to one another and allowing shared access to equipment, flexible work zones, and support spaces. Each space was designed not only for functionality, but also for inspiration—giving students a sense of professionalism, purpose, and pride.
Designed and Delivered With Purpose
Construction kicked off in December 2022, and the building was substantially complete by October 2024, in time for students to begin using the space that fall. From the start, this project was about opportunity—giving Merrillville students hands-on training in fields that offer strong futures. The new CTE wing reflects the district’s belief that real-world readiness starts in high school. It also sends a strong message: that Merrillville is investing not only in buildings, but in the future of its students and local workforce.
