Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) and HITT Contracting announced on May 5 a $300,000 gift from HITT to the NOVA Educational Foundation. The three-year investment will support the construction of the Manassas Skilled Trades Center at NOVA’s Manassas Campus, with the goal of addressing Northern Virginia’s shortage of skilled trades professionals.
The announcement comes as workforce projections show a growing need for electricians and technicians in the region. The new facility aims to expand training capacity in fields such as automotive technology, electric vehicles, hybrid systems, diesel power generation, and facilities maintenance. A central feature will be the HITT Energy Innovation Lab, designed to provide specialized workforce training in electrical and trade skills.
Anne M. Kress, president of Northern Virginia Community College, said: “This partnership is about providing access to a learning environment that inspires excellence. By pairing world-class facilities and equipment with a curriculum that evolves alongside the workforce, we are ensuring our students stay ahead of industry needs.”
HITT Co-President Evan Antonides said: “We’re proud to partner with Northern Virginia Community College through the HITT Contracting Foundation to invest in the next generation of builders. The demand for skilled trades professionals continues to grow, and this partnership helps prepare students with both the technical skills and the values that define our industry, including a deep respect for safety and a responsibility to look out for one another on every jobsite.”
Dr. Molly Lynch, provost of NOVA’s Manassas Campus added: “The Manassas Skilled Trades Center is a game-changing facility for the Northern Virginia region. By fostering an environment that embodies empowerment and care, we are preparing our students to step directly into the high-paying careers that power and build Northern Virginia’s infrastructure.”
Construction on the Manassas Skilled Trades Center began last year; it is expected to open in spring 2027.
