Construction begins on new $11M Challenger Learning Center in Rainbow City, Alabama

Construction begins on new $11M Challenger Learning Center in Rainbow City, Alabama

Gov. Kay Ivey joined numerous local and state leaders at a groundbreaking ceremony held in Rainbow City on September 17. Addressing the crowd, Ivey shared details about the project, which is set to conclude in 2026.

“The Challenger Center Program, a leading worldwide nonprofit science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education organization, and the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama (CFNEA) officially partnered in 2024 to establish, for the first time, a Challenger Learning Center in the state of Alabama.”
~ Governor’s Office

After more than two years of anticipation, the Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama has finally commenced construction. This exciting endeavor aims to offer immersive STEM education, with a focus on space-related activities, to middle school students across central Alabama starting in 2026.

 

Construction begins on new $11M Challenger Learning Center in Rainbow City, Alabama1

Alabama is set to welcome its first Challenger Learning Center, making it the 37th center of its kind in the United States. The organization behind this initiative, headquartered in Washington, D.C., aims to provide an exciting and educational experience for visitors.

Alabama plans to build a new facility that is expected to cost approximately $11 million. The funding for this project has already been secured through state and federal funds. The facility will feature three full-size classrooms, as well as hands-on simulators that represent various real-world scenarios.

    • Mission control
    • Space shuttle
    • Briefing room
    • Transport room

The center’s location will be at 1986 Challenger Way, Rainbow City, AL 35906.

“Today is a pivotal moment for Rainbow City, Etowah County, and all of Alabama! Our Governor is a steadfast supporter of education, and this day offers us the opportunity to adopt innovative approaches to enhance our children’s lives through learning. Let’s give a heartfelt welcome home to the Challenger Learning Center of North Alabama!”
~ Joe Taylor, Rainbow City mayor

Reference Article

Jan McDonald – Managing Partner Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jan McDonald relocated to the Demopolis area in 1991. Over the years, she has built an extensive career as a journalist and freelance writer, contributing her talents to various news outlets across Louisiana, Wisconsin, and Alabama. With her wealth of experience in journalism, Jan has honed her skills in reporting, writing, and storytelling, making her a versatile and respected voice in the field. As Managing Partner of The Watchman, Jan plays a crucial role in overseeing and producing editorial content for the publication. Her responsibilities include curating stories, ensuring high-quality journalism, and managing the day-to-day operations of the editorial team. Jan's dedication to maintaining the integrity of The Watchman's reporting, combined with her deep connection to the community, allows her to guide the publication with both passion and expertise.
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