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May River High School Celebrates Opening of New Career & Technical Education Building

Bluffton, SC— May River High School officially celebrated the opening of its new Career & Technical Education (CTE) building Tuesday afternoon with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by May River High School administration, staff, and students, as well as district leaders and community partners.

Ribbon Cutting for May River High School

Board of Education member William Smith and Board Chair Richard Col. Geier celebrate the new CTE facility with May River High School students and Principal Dr. Karon Webb.

The new 20,000-square-foot facility significantly expands opportunities for students by providing modern, industry-aligned spaces for welding, engineering, advanced technologies, and other career pathways. The building also includes dedicated facilities for the school’s JROTC program, supporting leadership development and hands-on training.

“This new CTE building represents opportunity—opportunity for students to explore their interests, develop real-world skills, and prepare for whatever path comes next, whether that’s college, military service, or entering the workforce,” BCSD Chief Operations Officer Robert Oetting shared during the ceremony. “These spaces are designed to mirror real-world environments and give students meaningful, future-ready experiences.”

Photo of the welding center in May River High School's CTE building

state-of-the-art welding lab

The facility includes approximately 14,000 square feet of classroom and lab space, featuring modern welding labs, advanced CTE classrooms, and a hands-on maker space equipped with industry-relevant tools and technology. An additional 6,000 square feet is dedicated to JROTC classrooms and support areas, providing purpose-built space that reflects the high standards of the program.

Following the ceremony, attendees toured the new building to see firsthand how the upgraded spaces will support student learning, safety, and innovation.

The project was funded through the 2019 and 2023 Beaufort County School District Bond Referendums, reflecting strong community support for investing in career pathways and workforce development.

Project Partners

  • Architect: Quackenbush Architects + Planners
  • Construction Contractor: Thompson Turner Construction

May River High School’s new CTE building underscores the district’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to high-quality career and technical education and preparing students for success beyond graduation.

 

Video: https://youtu.be/hwu_Uxhpjy8