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.
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.
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- 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
