Eckenhoff Saunders Leads Design of New Health Careers Education Center in Evanston
Eckenhoff Saunders is proud to announce its role as lead architect for the new 6,000-square-foot Health Careers Education Center, a collaboration between Oakton College and Endeavor Health. Located on the second floor of the COS Building at 2500 Ridge Avenue in Evanston, the center marks Oakton College’s first-ever physical presence in Evanston, expanding access to hands-on training for high-demand healthcare careers.
Transformative Learning Environment
Purpose-built to mirror clinical workflows, the facility features three advanced simulated lab suites with adjacent classrooms for real-time observation and instruction:
- Radiology Lab with a full-size X-ray machine and connecting control room
- Surgical Technology Lab with two operating rooms, scrub sinks, and a sterile supply area
- Cardiac Sonography Lab with seven echo position bays and a group huddle room
Supporting spaces include a conference/lounge area, student lockers, and administrative offices on the ground floor.
Leadership Perspectives
“This center aligns high-fidelity simulation with Endeavor Health’s care standards while bringing Oakton College’s programs directly into Evanston. By designing spaces that reflect real clinical workflows, we’re helping both partners accelerate a pipeline of practice-ready technologists and sonographers who will strengthen patient care across the North Shore, and deliver lasting benefits to the broader community.”
— Jeff Conner, Principal, Eckenhoff Saunders
“From day one, our team worked closely with faculty and clinical leaders to translate curriculum into space. The adjacency of labs and classrooms, observation windows, and shared support zones let instructors coach in real time while students build confidence and competency. The result is a flexible, durable platform that can evolve with technology and community needs, supporting Oakton College, Endeavor Health, and the people they serve.”
— Colleen Miller, Project Manager, Eckenhoff Saunders
About the Project
Eckenhoff Saunders led the design effort to deliver a modern, efficient learning environment that supports workforce development, enhances academic-clinical collaboration, and increases access to quality healthcare training in Evanston.