Building Rendering (Provided by RPCC)
New facility will prepare workers for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing and steel production
DONALDSONVILLE, La. — A major workforce development project tied to Louisiana’s growing steel and advanced manufacturing sector officially moved forward as River Parishes Community College (RPCC), Hyundai Steel and state and local leaders broke ground on the new RPCC Hyundai Steel Training Center in Donaldsonville.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held near the corner of Loop 945 and Latino Drive, marks a significant step in building a skilled workforce pipeline to support Hyundai Steel’s planned U.S. operations and Louisiana’s expanding industrial economy. The training center is scheduled to open in Q4 2027.
State officials, higher education leaders, industry partners and community members attended the event, underscoring the project’s importance to the River Parishes region and statewide economic growth.
Workforce Development Supports Louisiana Manufacturing Growth
Governor Jeff Landry emphasized Louisiana’s competitiveness in attracting manufacturers seeking both industrial capacity and a skilled workforce.
“Across the country, manufacturers are looking for states that can deliver industrial capacity and a skilled workforce, and Louisiana is delivering both,” Landry said. “The RPCC Hyundai Steel Training Center strengthens American manufacturing and ensures our people are prepared to power the industries that drive our economy.”
Hyundai Steel President and CEO Bo Ryong Lee said the facility will play a critical role in the company’s Louisiana startup and long-term growth.
“The talented individuals trained here will play a vital role in the successful start-up of our steel mill and in achieving rapid and sustainable growth,” Lee said. “Hyundai Steel is a company that invests in people, technology and the local community.”
Steel-Focused Curriculum Designed With Industry Input
RPCC has developed a new steel-industry-focused curriculum aligned directly with Hyundai Steel’s workforce needs. The two-year program creates accessible pathways into high-wage, high-demand careers while strengthening the regional talent pipeline.
Students will complete:
Year One (Beginning Fall 2026):
Training at RPCC or partner institutions including:
- Baton Rouge Community College
- Delgado Community College
- Fletcher Technical Community College
- Northshore Technical Community College
- South Louisiana Community College
Year Two:
Hands-on, steel-specific training at the new Donaldsonville center, leading to a Technical Diploma in one of three pathways:
- Electrical Maintenance
- Mechanical Maintenance
- Advanced Manufacturing
A dual-enrollment option for Ascension Parish high school students will allow participants to earn college credit and begin technical training early.
Aligning Education and Industry
Louisiana Economic Development (LED) Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said the project converts industrial growth into real opportunity for residents.
“By expanding access to industry-driven training, this project prepares our skilled, hard-working men and women to meet employer demand and strengthens Louisiana’s industrial momentum,” Bourgeois said.
Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) President Richard Nelson highlighted the long-term impact of the partnership.
“This project reflects strong collaboration among higher education, industry and state partners to ensure Louisiana is prepared to meet the workforce needs of major investments like Hyundai,” Nelson said.
RPCC Chancellor Quintin D. Taylor added that the college’s mission is to deliver industry-aligned training that enables residents to build high-skill careers without leaving their community.
A Model for Industry-Education Collaboration
The RPCC Hyundai Steel Training Center represents a three-way partnership among education, industry and government aimed at expanding technical training capacity, strengthening the regional talent pipeline and supporting future workforce needs in Louisiana’s industrial corridor.
Those seeking additional information about the program can visit rpcc.edu for updates.
