University of Louisiana at Lafayette Breaks Ground on Engineering Center of Excellence

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette broke ground in July of 2024 on a $55 million facility that will house the newly established Engineering Center of Excellence. Designed by Holly & Smith Architects and The Sellers Group, the Engineering Student-Centered Collaborative Building will offer 65,000 sf of learning and research space spread over three levels. A vibrant first floor with a 5,000-sf maker space will include an interactive stair that leads up to a second-level collaboration zone for group projects and club activities. A technology terrace will enable faculty and students to work with industry partners on novel products and solutions for pressing global challenges. On the third floor, the Bridge will provide a mix of settings for meeting, studying, and tutoring.

Bringing together previously isolated disciplines, the facility will collocate programs in chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical, and petroleum engineering with courses in engineering and technology management. Slated for completion by 2026, the project will rise next to Madison Hall, which is being renovated to accommodate classrooms and other academic functions. A planned science center will eventually be constructed nearby to define the new STEM Quad at the western edge of the campus.