Bowling Green State University Opens New Technology Engineering Innovation Center
BGSU recently welcomed students into the new engineering center, designed to advance STEM education and career-ready preparation on campus.
“[Within the Innovation Center] you can see what everybody is doing, and students can create relationships and a sense of mutual learning. That’s more valuable than anything else, and I think the way this building is designed will have a huge impact on the students.”
Students and faculty of BGSU’s School of Engineering and the College of Technology, Architecture and Applied Engineering recently walked through the light-filled entry of the new Technology Engineering Innovation Center (TEIC) for the first time. The extensive renovation and expansion of the existing 1970s-era Industrial Education and Technology Building accomplishes a strategic goal identified in BGSU’s master plan to provide STEM students with state-of-the-art labs that foster collaboration and reflect real-world workspaces.
Dean of the College of Engineering and Innovation Dr. Wael Mokhtar called the project an “innovation model,” adding, “students can create relationships and a sense of mutual learning. That’s more valuable than anything else, and I think the way this building is designed will have a huge impact on students.” The TEIC responds to a significant increase in first-year student enrollment, providing flexibility for sustainable growth. Director of Campus Construction Kristin Peiffer noted that labs were built with a modular approach and can adapt to changes in technology and equipment needs over time.
The facility also improves connectivity with the main campus, while encouraging exploration of STEM education. With the removal of a former office wing, the team created a new pathway between the TEIC and nearby academic and administration buildings, as well as the neighboring Falcon Heights residential hall. Now, a glazed entry pavilion welcomes students inside and brings natural light deep into the lab spaces, illuminating and warming its interiors, and showcasing the work happening within. Specialized labs for robotics, advanced manufacturing, metals/machining, ECET, CAD/CAM, and AI and VR labs will provide students with the environments and tools for success in their chosen industry after graduation.
This milestone marks the beginning of a new semester and chapter for the University’s engineering programs. Currently in final stages of construction, the building will celebrate completion with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony in May. The project team includes The Collaborative + Acock (architect-of-record) and Mosser (general contractor).
