The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new training campus in Huntsville. Vaughn served as construction manager-at-risk for the 64,000 SF campus, which brings together specialized training, professional development, and residential resources for TDCJ employees statewide.

The campus consists of three buildings. The 43,000 SF training center includes flexible classrooms, assembly and administrative spaces, a recording studio, a virtual reality training room, mock cell demonstration areas, and a physical training room with a perimeter catwalk. An 11,500 SF barracks building provides four dormitories with accommodations for 80 trainees. A 9,500 SF indoor firing range provides six 50-yard lanes.

Together, the three buildings create a centralized environment where TDCJ employees can strengthen their skills, develop as leaders, and prepare for situations they may encounter in the field. The campus will support leadership development programs, the Parole Officers Training Academy, the Advanced Correctional Officer Training Academy, crisis response teams, and other professional training programs.

“Managing construction across three buildings required extensive planning, communication, and coordination,” said the project assistant superintendent. “Our team faced challenges, helped one another, and made adjustments when needed. We grew and learned together throughout the project, and the experience created lasting memories for everyone involved.”

Through proactive planning, close coordination, and consistent schedule oversight, Vaughn completed the campus 30 days ahead of schedule.

“This project gave me valuable experience as a superintendent,” said the project superintendent. “Each challenge taught me how to plan ahead, communicate with different teams, and find the best path forward when work did not go according to plan.”