Construction is officially underway on Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center’s (MAMC) newest expansion: a state-of-the-art Welding & Robotics Technology Training Center that will significantly increase training capacity and extend MAMC’s reach across the region. The project not only represents a major step forward in meeting workforce demand, it also signals the continued revitalization of one of Huntington’s storied industrial sites.
The new facility will be located in the “sawtooth roof” building at 2300 Third Ave. in Huntington, which formerly housed the machine shop of ACF Industries. Once a symbol of industrial decline, the property is being transformed into a hub of innovation and opportunity. The redevelopment effort is led by the Huntington Municipal Development Authority and funded through a more than $8 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant to Coalfield Development. Additional work on the site is supported by a $1.47 million congressional earmark championed by U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito.
The new facility will be located in the “sawtooth roof” building at 2300 Third Ave. in Huntington, which formerly housed the machine shop of ACF Industries. Once a symbol of industrial decline, the property is being transformed into a hub of innovation and opportunity. The redevelopment effort is being funded through a combination of federal and regional support, including a $1.47 million congressional earmark championed by U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito and additional funds from the ACT Now Coalition’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge, led by Coalfield Development.
MAMC’s welding program has seen consistent growth over the last several years, fueled by increasing demand for skilled trades professionals. With the new space, MAMC will be able to double its current capacity from 35 students to more than 70 at a time. This expansion will allow the center to serve more students and employers across West Virginia and the surrounding region, addressing critical shortages in the skilled labor pipeline.
“This project is about more than just bricks and mortar—it’s about giving people the chance to build successful, sustainable careers,” said MAMC Director Derek Scarbro. “We’re investing in students and in the future of West Virginia manufacturing.”
In addition to increased capacity, the new facility will support the launch of advanced welding programming, including training in robotics and aerospace welding—two high-growth sectors where MAMC plans to play a leading role. This future-focused programming ensures that MAMC remains on the cutting edge of training, offering students skills that align with the needs of modern manufacturers.
Once renovations are complete, the space will house high-tech welding bays, upgraded ventilation and safety systems, and room for new equipment that supports MAMC’s hands-on, industry-driven instruction.
The project also contributes to the larger effort to breathe new life into Huntington’s post-industrial landscape. The former ACF site, once home to a major railcar manufacturer, is gradually being reclaimed for new uses, including education, training and business development.
“This is the kind of development that creates momentum,” Scarbro added. “It provides new opportunities for students and helps us better serve our industry partners by delivering a steady pipeline of highly skilled welders.”
The new welding facility will open January 2027.
To learn more about Welding Technology and the other career skills programs at MAMC, wwww.mfg.marshall.edu/career-skills.
May 24, 2025
