SMPC Co-Hosts CREW New Mexico Hardhat Tour of RioTECH Automotive Technology Center

May 18, 2026

SMPC was proud to co-host a hardhat tour of the CNM/Rio Rancho Public Schools RioTECH Automotive Technology Center with CREW New Mexico, welcoming leaders from across the real estate, banking, commercial development, and A/E/C communities for an inside look at one of Rio Rancho’s most anticipated education and workforce development projects.

Now nearing completion, the new 43,800-square-foot Automotive Technology Center represents a forward-thinking partnership between Central New Mexico Community College and Rio Rancho Public Schools. As the second major facility on the RioTECH campus, the project is designed to expand access to skilled trades education through co-located, dual-credit programs serving both high school students and adult learners.

The facility will support CNM’s Automotive Technology and Electric Vehicle Technology programs, along with introductory Light Diesel Technology courses. Designed to emulate real-world repair shop environments, the building includes specialized automotive and EV labs, adjacent classrooms, instructor offices, dedicated tool rooms, an EV battery storage room, an automotive electrical systems lab, student commons, an outdoor courtyard, and secure exterior storage for training vehicles.

For SMPC, the project is especially meaningful because of the role it will play in preparing students for careers in high-demand technical fields. By bringing academic coursework and hands-on technical training together in one integrated setting, the Automotive Technology Center will help reduce barriers to career technical education while supporting the region’s evolving workforce needs.

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The building’s design emphasizes flexibility, durability, visibility, and daylight. Tilt-up concrete construction provides a strong and efficient building system, while expansive clear-span lab spaces allow the program to adapt as automotive and transportation technologies continue to evolve. Nearly continuous translucent wall panels bring natural light into the labs during the day and create a glowing presence on campus at night, celebrating the innovation and activity taking place inside.

The hardhat tour offered CREW New Mexico members and project partners an opportunity to experience the scale, purpose, and community impact of the facility firsthand. SMPC is grateful to Franken Construction, CNM, Rio Rancho Public Schools, and the broader project team for helping bring this important vision to life.

As the project approaches completion, SMPC is excited to see the RioTECH Automotive Technology Center begin serving students, educators, industry partners, and the Rio Rancho community.

Photo Credit:
Photography by D’Ali Roberts.