Scottsbluff, NE

John N. Harms Center Health Sciences Building

Western Nebraska Community College (WNCC) is undergoing a transformation that will leave a lasting mark on healthcare education in the region. The John N. Harms Center Health Sciences Building project is more than construction, it’s an investment in the next generation of nurses, healthcare providers, and educators who will serve the community for decades to come.

The work includes 33,000 SF of renovations and over 9,000 SF of additions, including a second-floor expansion, an entry link, and a reimagined lobby. Inside, students will benefit from state-of-the-art nursing labs, simulation spaces, classrooms, and offices designed to mirror real-world healthcare environments. Two fully equipped Mock Operating Rooms with functioning lights, oxygen, and suction outlets will allow students to practice in lifelike settings before entering clinical rotations.

The new lobby area is designed to inspire, featuring terrazzo stair treads, glass handrails, wood plank ceilings, bold geometric wall patterns, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. Together, these features strike a balance between professionalism and comfort, creating a welcoming space for students and staff alike.

Now 11 months into construction, we’ve completed the Owner/Architect punch walk of the lower level and performed the BCI punch walk of the main level and exterior. Throughout the project, WNCC has continued operating in nearby areas, a testament to strong coordination between our team, the architects, and the college.

Recently, the construction site itself served a greater purpose, it became a training ground for future lifesavers. The Scottsbluff Fire Department requested access to a steep portion of the site to simulate victim recovery and transport in challenging terrain. We were happy to provide the space, asking only that crews steer clear while training was underway. It was a proud reminder that this project is not only about building for the college, but also about contributing to the wider community.

As completion nears, excitement is building. The renovated Harms Building will soon be more than a facility, it will be a hub of opportunity, where students gain the skills they need to succeed and WNCC’s commitment to excellence in education is brought to life in a very real way.