The Chief Foundation, headquartered in Grand Island, has joined the growing number of companies and foundations supporting the Northeast Community College iHub.
Chief has committed $20,000 toward the 18,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art workforce development and community fabrication facility located in the heart of downtown Norfolk.
“Supporting the iHub aligns with our vision of building stronger communities by preparing the next generation of skilled workers,” said DJ Eihusen, chairman and CEO of Chief Industries. “At Chief, we are proud to invest in opportunities that inspire innovation, grow talent, and create lasting impact for the workforce of tomorrow.”
Chief Industries has been a family-owned manufacturer since opening its doors in 1954. The small construction company Virgil Eihusen launched in his garage has grown into a diverse global corporation with nearly 1,500 employees. Today, Virgil Eihusen’s grandson, DJ, serves as chairman and CEO.
“We are grateful for the support from the Chief Foundation and Chief Industries,” said Erin Sharpe, director of the iHub. “With support from businesses like Chief, the iHub will be able to use portable equipment and adaptable programming to deliver the transformative power of technology, robotics education, and workforce development to communities across our entire region.”
Construction continues on the iHub building, located at 707 W. Norfolk Avenue. Training is currently being provided in area schools, on the Northeast campus, and at other locations. The building is expected to open its doors to youth, entrepreneurs, and the incumbent workforce in late spring or early summer 2026.
The total iHub project cost is expected to be $8.5 million. Initial funding came from two grants from the U.S. Economic Development Administration totaling $4.6 million and a $750,000 Community Project Funding Request from U.S. Representative Mike Flood.
The college earlier announced two leadership gifts for the iHub: $250,000 from Nucor Divisions in Nebraska and $250,000 from Norfolk Iron and Metal. Additional support has been received from manufacturers, employers, financial institutions, and foundations.
Naming rights are available for donations of $25,000 and above, with gifts from $500 to $24,999 acknowledged on a donor recognition display.
Northeast is in the final stages of fundraising and invites supporters to make a difference by contributing gifts of all sizes between now and the end of the year. For more information on the iHub Campaign, contact Tracy Kruse at foundation@northeast.edu or call 402-844-7240. Online donations are accepted at northeast.edu/give. Checks may also be mailed to the iHub Campaign, Northeast Community College Foundation, P.O. Box 469, Norfolk, NE 68702-0469.
iHub Update
Work continues on the iHub in downtown Norfolk, with the Chief Foundation the latest company to help support it with a financial contribution. (Northeast Community College)
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