CADP celebrates the opening of CORNERSTONE – the premier training facility to power the workforce of the Midlands region

Governor Henry McMaster and other partners tour the new state-of-the-art, 41,000-square-foot regional training facility

The CORNERSTONE: Economic Development & Workforce Training Center has officially opened its doors, marking a major advancement for efforts to grow Richland County’s manufacturing and innovation economy. Governor Henry McMaster, public and private economic development leaders, and education partners toured the new center located on Midlands Technical College’s Northeast Campus. CORNERSTONE is a state-of-the-art, 41,000-square-foot regional training facility designed to meet the growing workforce training needs of manufacturers and boost economic growth and competitiveness throughout the Midlands.

Announced at the start of 2025, the building at 101 Research Drive in Columbia underwent a rapid $5 million physical transformation to become a modern training facility. The transformation was supported by key local and state government and educational partners: Richland County, Columbia Area Development Partnership, S.C. Department of Commerce, S.C. Technical College, readySC, and Midlands Technical College.

“CORNERSTONE exemplifies the power of communication, cooperation, and collaboration,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “Workforce development is one of the most effective ways to help our companies succeed and create new opportunities for our people. This center will be a powerful tool to attract new jobs and investment while helping existing businesses thrive.”

“Together, we’ve built a foundation for lasting opportunity and shared success,” said Jesica Mackey, Chair of Richland County Council and Co-Chair of CADP. “Richland County’s manufacturing sector continues to outpace national growth trends, and CORNERSTONE provides an important tool to support future growth.”

CADP kickstarted the creation of CORNERSTONE as the lead economic development authority for Richland County following the announcement of one of the largest and most innovative projects in South Carolina’s history – Scout Motors.

“This was a team effort, and the results are going to bring added value to all our partners as we continue to grow our manufacturing base in the Columbia area,” said Jeff Ruble, CEO of Columbia Area Development Partnership. “CORNERSTONE isn’t just a building; it’s a commitment we have made to help people and companies thrive here.”

Education is an important component of the work at CORNERSTONE, which is expected to serve as many as 20,000 community residents. The S.C. Technical College System celebrates the facility as the latest advancement in workforce readiness. This work can’t be done without hands-on partners. readySC is coordinating the training taking place at the facility.

”South Carolina’s technical colleges are here to make sure our industries have exactly what they need: a highly skilled, ready-to-work talent pipeline. In the Midlands and across the state, we’re providing customized training that keeps our companies competitive and builds the kind of workforce South Carolina is known for,” pledged S.C. Technical College President Dr. Tim Hardee.

“We named the building CORNERSTONE because we want it to be the foundation of workforce development in our community,” Midlands Technical College President Dr. Greg Little said. “The pre-hire work that is already happening is a testament to what can be achieved quickly when groups and organizations come together through collaboration and teamwork.”

Through partnerships with local industries, CORNERSTONE offers hands-on technical training, certification programs, and customized workforce solutions that directly address employer needs. Under one roof, companies can train, upskill, and onboard workers in fields ranging from automotive and energy to pharmaceuticals and advanced materials.

For students and job seekers, CORNERSTONE provides access to high-quality training and clear career pathways with innovative employers right in their own community. By aligning education with real-world industry demand, CORNERSTONE helps ensure that the Midlands remains a premier destination for business growth and talent development.

About CORNERSTONE: Economic Development & Workforce Training Center

CORNERSTONE was created as a regional training center to strengthen the Midlands region’s competitiveness, accelerate the growth of advanced manufacturing, and equip current and future generations of citizens with the skills needed to thrive in today’s innovation economy. Located in the heart of one of South Carolina’s most manufacturing-rich regions, CORNERSTONE connects world-class employers with a ready, skilled, and ambitious workforce.

About Columbia Area Development Partnership

The Columbia Area Development Partnership (CADP) is a not-for-profit, public-private partnership (P3) serving as the lead authority for economic development in Richland County. By merging public- and private-sector support, it builds upon the area’s rapid economic development growth, facilitates continued global industry recruitment, and enhances innovation. The partnership enhances the county’s ability to attract and retain industry investments and high-quality jobs, positioning Richland County as a competitive destination for business and community opportunities.