SCC launches Kentucky's first concrete 3D printing training program

Somerset Community College (SCC) is helping shape the future of construction and advanced manufacturing through Kentucky’s first-ever Concrete 3D Printing (3DCP) training program, providing students with cutting-edge skills in one of the construction industry's fastest-growing technologies.

The inaugural course recently concluded after an intensive 60-hour training experience that combined classroom instruction, virtual learning, hands-on equipment operation, design planning, troubleshooting, and real-world concrete printing applications. Students learned the foundational principles of concrete 3D printing, robotic operation, print design, embedded component installation, surface finishing techniques, and quality assurance processes.

The program builds upon SCC's leadership in emerging technologies. In 2025, SCC gained national attention after constructing Kentucky's first concrete 3D-printed home. This year, the college expanded those efforts by becoming the first institution in the Commonwealth to offer concrete 3D printing workforce training.

“This is a proud moment for our team,” said Eric Wooldridge, Director of SCC’s Additive Manufacturing Center (AMC). “Last year we built Kentucky’s first concrete 3D-printed house, and this year we are able to roll out Kentucky’s first concrete 3D printing training program. It would not have been possible without the support of USDA Rural Development, HSH Drywall, the Cumberlands Workforce Development Board, and the leadership of SCC Chancellor Dr. Carey Castle and Alesa Johnson, who have been driving SCC’s forward momentum.”

Wooldridge said the technology has the potential to transform communities by helping create resilient infrastructure and housing solutions while opening new career opportunities for students.

“It truly is an honor for us to work with these students and transfer the knowledge and expertise to those who are going to be part of the impact this technology will have on construction and concrete design,” Wooldridge said. “Knowing that one day soon they will have a hand in building resilient homes and creating infrastructure that protects their neighbors and families makes this work especially meaningful.”

Students from a variety of backgrounds participated in the first cohort, including college students, dual credit students, and workforce trainees seeking specialized certifications. 
Ava Hollars, a 19-year-old SCC student from Shopville, said the opportunity to participate in the inaugural class close to home was one she could not pass up.

“I feel really lucky; I can just drive right on over to the Valley Oak Center,” Hollars said. “I am excited to be a part of the first class. I think we are walking away with some really great skills.” 
One SCC student pursuing engineering studies said the course helped bridge career interests while providing valuable hands-on experience.

“I felt this class would be a great way to help me decide between mechanical and civil engineering,” the student said. “It’s something great to put on my résumé and make myself stand out. It’s a great opportunity overall.”

The student also believes the technology will play a significant role in future construction and community development.

“We are going to see concrete printing impact our communities as the industry progresses,” the student said. “We are about to see weather-resistant houses that can resist tornadoes or floods, and it could help lower insurance costs for homeowners. It can also be used to create community features like benches and fountains. It’s a great opportunity for our community to get involved early in this industry.”

For Tristin Andrews of Columbia, an SCC Industrial Maintenance Technology student, the course provided an opportunity to combine skills learned in multiple disciplines.

“This is a great opportunity to marry the skills I have learned in Industrial Maintenance robotics with the robotic concrete 3D printer used in this class,” Andrews said. “I believe this will make me much more marketable in the industry going forward. I am excited about this new technology and where it will take the industry.”

Local high school students also recognized the value of gaining experience in an emerging field before entering military service.

Samuel Terwilliger, a 16-year-old Casey County High School senior who plans to enlist in the U.S. Army, said military organizations are already utilizing concrete 3D printing technology.

“Having this certification will allow me to be qualified for more positions within the Army and hopefully help me find a rewarding career,” Terwilliger said.

Connor Wilson, a 17-year-old Casey County student who plans to join the U.S. Marine Corps, echoed that sentiment.

“3D printing is a new technology that will be used in the future,” Wilson said. “The Marines are already using this technology, which is why I wanted to get certified and develop these skills. Not many people are certified in concrete 3D printing because access to education and training is limited. SCC is the first college in Kentucky to offer this training, and I wanted to be part of the first class.”

Wilson also praised the learning environment created by the SCC team.

“The people at SCC have been amazing throughout this class,” he said. “It has been wonderful to be part of this program.”

The initiative was made possible through partnerships with USDA Rural Development, HSH Drywall of Ohio, and the Cumberlands Workforce Development Board, organizations that continue to support innovation, workforce development, and economic growth throughout the region.

As concrete 3D printing continues to gain traction across the construction industry, SCC leaders believe the program positions Kentucky at the forefront of a technology that could redefine how homes, infrastructure, and public spaces are built in the decades ahead.

For more information about SCC workforce training opportunities, visit Somerset Community College or contact the SCC Workforce Solutions Department.

Photo gallery available at: SCC Concrete 3D Printing Training Program Photos