The $30 million Witchger School of Engineering offers four-year degrees in biomedical, chemical, civil, computer, mechanical, or engineering physics with a hands-on, detail-oriented curriculum. Building features include makerspaces, engineering project labs, 3D printing and modeling, engineering technology labs, computer engineering labs, biotechnology and fluid dynamics labs, state-of-the-art classrooms, and community spaces. As the engineer-of-record, the facility features a four-pipe hydronic system. The offices are served by a low-temperature air-handling system, and the labs are served by a 100% dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) with a high plume exhaust system with energy recovery. The design resulted in sophisticated, eco-friendly systems with high-quality equipment and energy-saving control sequences. Because of the technical use of the space, laboratory grade systems and a high-efficiency chiller with a lower temperature than typically used was installed to save duct size. The roof includes the chiller, air handlers, and exhaust system, which is accessible for students to receive hands-on mechanical engineering education. The building infrastructure is designed with flexibility, enabling the university to continue developing the space based on changing needs. Electrical distribution was located in each classroom for future flexibility. The fourth floor is currently a shell space with design in progress to further suit future growth.
The building Owners are currently pursuing a LEED Silver certification.
