Work continues on NDSU’s new STEM Classroom and Lab Building in anticipation of completion before spring semester. STEM is the commonly used term for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The first classes in the new building are scheduled for January.
In recent weeks, construction crews have been putting the finishing touches on the second- and third-floor classrooms and laboratories. Currently, they are focusing on the building's first floor.
Some recent highlights include:
• Finishing work continues on the structure's first floor, which will have modern, rounded corners. The design is intended to promote a "fluid" flow of foot traffic.
• Most of the first floor polished concrete floor is completed.
• Classroom furniture has arrived. It is awaiting placement after rooms are finished. Lighting equipment, ceiling tile and cabinetry is also on site, and will be placed shortly.
• The second- and third-floor floor classrooms have white boards, motorized shades and tables installed. Punch-list items, technology installation and cleaning are underway.
• Card access has been installed on classrooms and labs for second and third floor.
• The building's six entrances will be monitored by cameras.
• Power and data ports have been installed in many of the building's hallways and study areas. The building will have chairs along the hallway windows to provide convenient, bright study spots for students.
• The second-floor Biological Safety Lab, known as BSL2, has tables, wall power strips and cabinetry installed.
• The Active Learning Classroom on third floor will feature a cluster of student tables and wall monitors for instruction.
• The green space to the east of the building is leveled and fully irrigated. Sod will be installed this spring.
The state-of-the-art instruction STEM building is being constructed to address the classroom and laboratory needs of NDSU students. Spaces in the building will be devoted exclusively to labs and traditional science and engineering classrooms as well as modular “open frame” flexible classrooms that will seat a variety of class sizes.
According to designers, there are nine classrooms and 23 labs in the building, but their specific use can change hourly, depending on the class schedule. An estimated 4,000 to 5,000 students are expected to use the building each day.
For more information, visit NDSU STEM Classroom and Lab Building or Types of classrooms.
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