For the past three years, North Central Texas College and the city of Lewisville have been discussing the possibility of building an industrial technology center in Lewisville. On April 18 city staff hosted a luncheon in conjunction with NCTC to talk to industrial employers in Lewisville and gauge their interest in a future facility. Employers that attended included Mary Kay—which is building a manufacturing facility in Lewisville—Active Organics, Andes Metal Processors Inc. and National Switchgear. Representatives from the companies agreed the facility would be beneficial, especially with attracting local talent. “Lewisville is home to many companies that have a need for skilled workers,” Economic Development Director Nika Reinecke said. “As competition for these workers grows, it is more difficult to attract new companies or provide needed workforce for our existing companies. A partnership with NCTC to develop an industrial workforce training campus in Lewisville will allow us to train the local workforce for our companies. The city’s strategic access to the [Denton County Transportation Authority] rail stations also provides an added benefit to connect Lewisville’s industrial training center to other parts of the metroplex and take advantage of a larger workforce pool.” NCTC Chancellor Brent Wallace said a location for the facility has not yet been identified but said he is not willing to put a facility where there is no public transit. A DCTA representative at the luncheon said the entity is willing to provide services for the new campus. DCTA currently has a partnership with NCTC in which it provides direct shuttle services to the Corinth and Flower Mound campuses. The facility would be 40,000 square feet and equipment and classes offered would be based on training needs of the industry. “At this point we do not know the specific programs,” said Debbie Sharp, NCTC vice chancellor of external affairs. “We are anticipating industrial technology programs such as welding, [heating, ventilation and air conditioning], industrial mechanics, electrical, et cetera, but we do not have the specifics until we determine the location and industry partners.” Wallace said the campus would more than likely offer dual-credit courses. Lewisville City Manager Donna Barron said the facility could happen as soon as a year and a half from now to up to three years. Reinecke said the timeline is dependent on industry demand and how fast NCTC can secure funding. She said the construction of the facility will not be funded by the city. NCTC is the oldest continuously operating two-year college in Texas.