The South Carolina Technical Educational System was established in 1961 in a legislation signed by then governor Ernest F. Hollings in order to educate the citizens of South Carolina in the technical and vocational fields, an attempt to reduce the jobs lost by means of the declining resources in the agricultural and textile fields.

During the official dedication ceremonies held on May 16, 1969, the late Senator Marshall B. Williams stated that this new education facility "represents the dreams and work of many people in the area.

An expansion in 1978 added new buildings housing administrative offices, student personnel services and a learning resource center: the Gressette Learning Resource Center, named in honor of Senator L. Marion Gressette of St. Matthews, and the Williams Administration Building in honor of Senator Marshall B. Williams of Orangeburg.

This building also features a Cyber Cafe, The Tourville Learning Lab, and meeting rooms, all of which are open to the public.

The Gressette building was recently renovated and is the new home of the library, student lounge, campus bookstore and various offices.