Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Breaks Ground on Cape Coral Technical College Expansion

September 16, 2025

Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Breaks Ground on Cape Coral Technical College Expansion

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"O‑A‑K is proud to partner with The School District of Lee County on a project that invests directly in the future of Cape Coral. Workforce training is the foundation of a strong local economy, and this new facility will give students the skills to succeed while helping our community meet the demands of rapid growth."
Matthew Zwack
Florida Division President, Owen‑Ames‑Kimball

Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Co. (O‑A‑K), a leading construction management company with deep roots in Southwest Florida, has broken ground on the much-anticipated expansion of Cape Coral Technical College (CCTC). The project marks the first major addition to the campus since it was built in 1993 and represents a major investment in workforce development for one of Florida’s fastest-growing cities.

The new 34,400-square-foot facility, located along Santa Barbara Boulevard, will house state-of-the-art programs in construction, welding, HVAC, automotive repair, and marine technology. The expansion introduces six new skilled-trades programs, creating opportunities for more than 150 students annually to earn certificates in high-demand industries that are vital to Lee County’s economy.

“This project is about building opportunity for our community,” said Charlie Pease, Director of Cape Coral Technical College. “Cape Coral is projected to reach nearly 400,000 residents in the next 25 years, and this expansion will ensure we have a pipeline of skilled workers ready to meet that demand.”

The programs were designed in collaboration with local industry partners to directly address workforce shortages in Southwest Florida. Graduates will be prepared to step immediately into careers in critical trades, many after just one year of training. The school will also expand its dual enrollment program, allowing high school seniors to simultaneously complete industry certifications and prepare for the workforce.

Matthew Zwack, Florida division president of Owen‑Ames‑Kimball, said, “O‑A‑K is proud to partner with The School District of Lee County on a project that invests directly in the future of Cape Coral. Workforce training is the foundation of a strong local economy, and this new facility will give students the skills to succeed while helping our community meet the demands of rapid growth.”

The $21 million project is scheduled for completion in August 2026, ensuring that future technicians, mechanics, and tradespeople will be ready to support the continued growth of Cape Coral and Lee County.

In addition to O‑A‑K, the project team includes ADG Architecture and Lee County Electric Cooperative as the project’s power partner.

O‑A‑K has served as construction manager for numerous education and workforce training projects across Southwest Florida.

Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Co. has provided premier general contracting, design-build, and construction management services in Southwest Florida since 1982. O‑A‑K specializes in community-driven construction projects and offers an inclusive, intentional, and customized experience. An employee-owned company, O‑A‑K Florida, Inc.'s board of directors comprises members from the company's Florida operations.

O‑A‑K’s Florida operation is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. Learn more about O‑A‑K at www.owen‑ames‑kimball.com or call (239) 561-4141.

"O‑A‑K is proud to partner with The School District of Lee County on a project that invests directly in the future of Cape Coral. Workforce training is the foundation of a strong local economy, and this new facility will give students the skills to succeed while helping our community meet the demands of rapid growth."
Matthew Zwack
Florida Division President
Owen‑Ames‑Kimball

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Cory O’Donnell, Marketing Manager at Owen‑Ames‑Kimball (O‑A‑K), has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce, further strengthening the company’s long-standing commitment to the Cape Coral business community and regional partnerships.

O’Donnell brings more than 20 years of experience in communications, marketing, and community engagement in Southwest Florida. In his role at O‑A‑K, he leads storytelling, brand strategy, and community outreach efforts, helping connect the company’s projects and people with the communities they serve.

His involvement with the Chamber extends beyond board service. O’Donnell currently serves on the Chamber’s Education Committee and has been a visible advocate for student achievement, acting as emcee for the 33rd Annual Cape Coral Chamber Excellence in Education Awards in 2025 and returning in May 2026. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Cape Coral Mayor’s Scholarship Fund, supporting local students in pursuing higher education.

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“Cory’s appointment reflects both his personal dedication to this community and O‑A‑K’s belief in being more than a builder — we are partners in the places where we work,” said Jim Hopper, Florida Division President, Owen‑Ames‑Kimball. “His passion for education, communication, and community connection aligns perfectly with the Chamber’s mission to strengthen local businesses and our regional economy.”

O’Donnell was officially sworn in alongside fellow board members and trustees during the Cape Coral Chamber’s Chairman’s Gala on January 31. At the same event, O‑A‑K was honored as a finalist for Large Business of the Year — a recognition that underscores the company’s continued investment in Cape Coral and its support of local businesses and community initiatives.

Through O’Donnell’s leadership and service, O‑A‑K continues to deepen its roots in Cape Coral, reinforcing its commitment to building not only high-quality facilities, but also lasting community relationships.

O‑A‑K’s Florida division is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. To learn more about O‑A‑K, visit www.owen‑ames‑kimball.com or call (239) 561-4141.

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Looker brings more than 20 years of marketing, business development, and client-focused experience in the Southwest Florida architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. In her new role, she will lead growth initiatives and expand O‑A‑K’s presence in the Collier County market, with a focus on cultivating long-term relationships and new opportunities across sectors including education, healthcare, aviation, government, and private development.

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“Keri’s deep understanding of the Southwest Florida market, combined with her strategic mindset and relationship-driven approach, makes her an excellent addition to our Florida Division,” said Jim Hopper, President of Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Florida Division. “She brings energy, insight, and a genuine commitment to community that aligns perfectly with our values. We are excited to have her on board as we continue to grow our presence in Collier County and the region.”

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Looker holds a Master of Business Administration from Florida Gulf Coast University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Florida’s Coggin College of Business. She is actively involved in the Collier Building Industry Foundation, the Collier County Community Land Trust, and Urban Land Institute Southwest Florida, reflecting her commitment to responsible growth and community building.

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O‑A‑K’s Florida Division is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Collier County office is located at 5100 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 103, Naples, FL 34103. To learn more about O‑A‑K, visit www.owen‑ames‑kimball.com or call (239) 304-9746.

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