Dec 10, 2021

Update on UNI’s Industrial Technology Center Modernization

To prepare students for Iowa's workforce and provide broad experience in engineering technologies, construction and manufacturing, UNI had requested Board of Regents approval of the schematic design, project description and budget for the $44.8 million Industrial Technology Center (ITC) Modernization. The Board gave their approval in September, which is the authorization needed to proceed with construction. Planned construction is to start in May 2022 and be finished by the summer of 2024.

"The shared vision of Governor Reynolds and the Legislature in developing the Iowa workforce allowed for an appropriation that made this modernization project possible,” said Michael Hager, UNI’s Senior Vice President for Finance and Operations. “We also could not proceed if it wasn’t for the generosity of our private donors. This project is about providing a 21st-century facility to meet Iowa industry needs through our students, faculty and staff."

The ITC serves students in technology rich programs and houses the Department of Technology, which includes the following departments: Construction Management, Electrical Engineering Technology, Graphic Technologies, Manufacturing Technology, Technology Education, Technology Management and Graduate Programs. These academic programs have become increasingly important to the economic development of the state.

This expansion of new technology-rich classrooms and state of the art labs will provide the needed space for training, where students can learn, collaborate and interact with professors. Further, these labs will allow UNI to develop new programs, that support emerging fields, create project-based teaching models and engage students at all levels in research projects.

The landscape architecture and civil engineering scope of work for the modernization will encompass the entire grounds around the ITC, and possibly extend to adjacent buildings. This will include the demolition of existing sidewalks and plazas; some earthwork and site grading are to be expected. New pavement installation for revised motorized and non-motorized circulation, building entries and gathering/outdoor classrooms will be explored.