Missouri State Unveils Construction Education Center

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Missouri State University (MSU) will celebrate a major milestone in workforce development with the grand opening of its Construction Education Success Center on Sept. 29 at Kemper Hall. The event kicks off at 9 a.m. in the high-bay training lab.

The $9.6 million project, supported by the MoExcels Workforce Initiative and private gifts, includes a 10,000-square-foot addition and renovation to the School of Construction, Design and Project Management. The facility is designed to train more construction majors while meeting the needs of today’s growing industry.

“This center positions Missouri State as a leader in preparing the next generation of construction professionals,” said Dr. David Meinert, Dean of the College of Business. “We’re committed to equipping our students with the skills employers need while driving regional economic growth.”

Hands-On Learning and Industry Training

The new facility includes a variety of state-of-the-art features aimed at enhancing student learning and industry readiness:

• 3,200-square-foot high-bay training lab, nearly 30 feet high, for hands-on instruction in full-scale construction activities including aerial lift operations, crane safety, and structural steel erection.
• Construction management computing lab for digital design, project planning, and building information modeling (BIM) training.
• Surveying technology lab to teach modern measurement and geospatial skills.
• Three collaborative spaces to foster teamwork and real-world project simulations.
• Student study lounge and rooftop terrace to support learning and community engagement.

“I’m most excited about the new opportunities this space will give us to build our industry and community partnerships,” said Dr. Richard Gebken, Director of the School of Construction, Design and Project Management.

Expanding Access and Workforce Impact

The center is expected to increase enrollment capacity in construction management programs, helping MSU meet the growing demand for skilled construction professionals in Missouri and the region. Through specialized training and industry-aligned credentials, graduates will be prepared to step directly into careers in construction, project management, and related fields.

“This facility reflects Missouri State’s commitment not only to education but also to regional economic development,” said Dr. Meinert. “By equipping students with the skills and credentials employers are seeking, we are helping to build a stronger workforce for the future.”

The grand opening will also feature demonstrations in the high-bay lab, giving visitors a firsthand look at hands-on student training in action. Local construction partners, alumni, faculty, and community members are invited to celebrate the new center’s role in advancing workforce readiness and construction innovation.

Originally reported by Missouri State News.