"Student-led Design Envisions Wellness Park, Grocery Store at Site for Proposed New OC Courthouse"

Midlands Technical College (MTC) architectural students recently made headlines in the Times and Democrat of Orangeburg for their innovative design concept supporting Orangeburg County’s proposed new courthouse. This project highlights MTC’s commitment to hands-on learning and real-world applications, giving students the opportunity to apply architectural engineering skills in meaningful ways.
H2: A Vision for Community Wellness

Led by Professor Cierra Davies, students in an architectural theory class developed a design plan that complements the county’s courthouse project. Stanley "Wise" Shannon, a sophomore in MTC’s architectural program, explained:

"Orangeburg deserves something that is going to be an eye-catcher, it deserves something that is going to be on the cutting edge of architecture," said Stanley "Wise" Shannon, a sophomore in the college's architectural program. "It deserves something that will be a magnet of revitalization...."

Shannon, along with fellow students, Aron Smith and Javion Latimer, have envisioned the site as being a green space gathering spot for the community or what they have coined, "The Oasis."

According to the project design, "The Oasis" would be complete with a wellness-based park and grocery space. The design and proposed project will be submitted as part of a national architectural design competition.

Read more in the Times and Democrat report.

Architectural Engineering Programs at MTC

MTC’s Architectural Engineering Programs  are part of the School of Science, Engineering, Technology, and Math (STEM). Students can pursue a variety of programs tailored to different career goals, whether they plan to transfer to a four-year institution or enter the workforce directly.

• Associate in Arts: Ideal for students transferring to a Bachelor of Architecture program.
• Associate in Applied Science: Prepares students to become architectural technicians, estimators, or building codes specialists.
• Academic Certificate: Architectural Computer Graphics: Learn computer-aided design (CAD), drafting, and project management.
• Academic Certificate: Architectural Design Technology: Provides foundational knowledge in architectural engineering.
• Academic Certificate: Architectural System and Codes: Learn building systems, CAD fundamentals, and local/national codes.

Explore all STEM programs at MTC for more opportunities in engineering, technology, and design.

Why Choose Midlands Technical College?

Midlands Technical College is a top trade school near you in Columbia, South Carolina, offering career-focused training and hands-on learning across a wide range of trade programs. Students gain real-world experience with high-tech equipment and professional guidance, preparing them for careers in architecture, engineering, IT, manufacturing, and more.

Key advantages include:

• Hands-On Learning: Access to labs, workshops, and projects like the Orangeburg courthouse design.
• Flexible Learning Options: On-campus, hybrid, and online courses tailored to fit your schedule.
• Affordable Education: Competitive tuition and scholarships like the LIFE Scholarship make MTC a smart investment.
• Industry-Aligned Curriculum: Programs are designed to meet the needs of local employers and national standards.

Whether your goal is transferring to a four-year college or entering the workforce immediately, MTC provides the training, guidance, and resources to help you succeed.

Get Started at MTC

Finding the right program and campus is easy. MTC offers:

• Virtual Tours: Explore the Airport, Beltline, or Northeast campuses from home.
• In-Person Campus Visits: Meet admissions counselors, tour facilities, and explore programs.
• Enrollment Steps: Apply online, submit your FAFSA, and complete enrollment in just three easy steps.

Start your journey today by exploring MTC’s full list of academic and trade programs designed to help students launch their careers in architecture, engineering, IT, and more.

MTC graduates are prepared to make an impact locally and nationally, whether through innovative design projects, technical expertise, or leadership in their chosen fields. By blending academic rigor with practical experience, Midlands Technical College is redefining what a technical college can offer students in Columbia, South Carolina, and the surrounding area.