SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Missouri State University has officially unveiled its Construction Education Success Center, a 10,000-square-foot addition and renovation to Kemper Hall designed to support the School of Construction, Design, and Project Management. The $9.6 million project was funded through the MoExcels Workforce Initiative and private donations, marking a significant investment in the university’s construction education programs.
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“This center positions Missouri State as a leader in preparing the next generation of construction professionals,” said Dr. David Meinert, College of Business Dean. “We’re committed to equipping our students with the skills employers need while driving regional economic growth.”
The new facility features a 3,200-square-foot high-bay training lab with nearly 30-foot ceilings, allowing students hands-on experience in crane safety, aerial lift operations, and other practical construction activities. Additional amenities include a construction management computing lab, a surveying technology lab, a rooftop terrace and study lounge, and three collaborative learning spaces to support team-based projects and research.
“I’m most excited about the new opportunities this space will give us to build our industry and community partnerships,” said Dr. Richard Gebken, School Director.
The Construction Education Success Center is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and field application, providing students with industry-grade equipment, advanced software, and experiential learning opportunities. Missouri State plans to partner with local construction firms to create internships, cooperative education programs, and workforce development initiatives that give students a direct pathway into the profession.
“This center reflects our commitment to hands-on, applied education. It’s not just about classrooms; it’s about preparing students to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving construction industry,” said Meinert.
The facility also includes green construction features, such as energy-efficient lighting and sustainable building materials, aligning with modern construction practices and teaching students the principles of sustainable design and project management.
University officials note that the center will also host community workshops and professional development events, strengthening industry-academic partnerships across the region. The combination of state-of-the-art labs, collaborative spaces, and applied learning opportunities positions Missouri State University as a hub for construction workforce training in Missouri and beyond.
Originally reported by Matt Jones in Spaces 4 Learning.
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