“I’m excited,” said CMCC President Scott Knapp. “It will allow us to do new and innovative things. It’s going to be our signature look, and it’s going to change the whole complexion of the college. It will be the dominant feature.”

The building is being constructed in front of Jalbert Hall and will house a business simulation center, case study and presentation rooms, an organic chemistry lab, and a new reception area and admissions office. Two rooms will be amphitheater style with desks on three tiers that circle the instructor.

“It allows us to give more efficient instruction,” Knapp said. Many of the existing classrooms were originally designed for 10 to 15 students. “Today, you want to stretch every dollar,” Knapp said. The classrooms are geared toward interaction between the instructor and students, allowing a close proximity. “You can’t sit in the back row and get lost.”

The rooms will be loaded with technology, such as interactive smart boards and other kinds of computers. Students will be able to work in groups on a screen, then the class can see and discuss that work on a larger screen.

The general contractor for the building is Langford and Low of Portland. The architecture firm is Harriman of Auburn.