Articles

Camera donation accelerates career-ready training in HCC’s Smart Building Technology program

By Betina Diaz-Cruz, HCC Central Work Study Student

Feb 18, 2026

From left to right, Adrian Wagner, director of Sales & Support, J-Tech Digital; Matt Adams, program coordinator, Smart Building Technology program and Will Horton, HCC Foundation development director pose with PTZ cameras donated to the college in support of the Smart Building Technology program.

Houston City College (HCC) continues to elevate its Smart Building Technology program with the recent donation of three Pan Tilt and Zoom (PTZ) cameras from J-Tech Digital, Inc. The equipment will be integrated into both commercial and residential training applications, expanding hands-on learning opportunities for students.

The Smart Building Technology program, under the HCC Architectural Design and Construction Center of Excellence, is currently the first of its kind in Texas. The program prepares students to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Smart Building Technology while gaining practical experience in integrated building systems. The addition of this industry-grade hardware ensures students train on the same equipment used in the field.

“This brings current, real-world technology directly into our classrooms,” said Matt Adams, program coordinator for the Smart Building Technology program. “Our students aren’t just learning theory, they’re working with the tools professionals use every day. We can’t say ‘thank you’ enough to our industry partners for these gifts.”

Adams emphasized that partnerships with Houston-area businesses play a critical role in addressing workforce shortages within the smart building sector.  

“There’s a significant demand for skilled technicians,” he said. “When industry steps in, it strengthens the talent pipeline and creates real opportunities for students.”

For J-Tech Digital, the donation represents both community investment and workforce development strategy.

“We chose HCC to help educate and prepare the next generation of the smart building technology workforce,” said Adrian Wagner, director of Sales & Support at J-Tech Digital.  “We see potential return on investment from HCC graduates. When future employees graduate from this program, they already know how to do the work. So, it makes it a lot easier for us to do the hiring.”

The collaboration was facilitated by HCC Foundation Development Director Will Horton, who works closely with faculty and industry partners to secure equipment and financial support.

“Donations like these help HCC provide greater hands-on learning opportunities for students,” he said. “Whether through equipment or scholarships, these partnerships help students graduate workforce-ready.”

To learn more about the Smart Building Technology program at HCC, visit hccs.edu/electrical-technology.