BGSU elevating engineering education with investment in cutting-edge learning space

University's innovative engineering programs will provide a unique blend of classroom and hands-on learning

By Michael Bratton

Dedicated to supporting Ohio's workforce needs, Bowling Green State University is offering three engineering degrees starting in Fall 2024 that will drive student success and address growing employer demands.

As BGSU launches innovative degrees in robotics engineering, electronic and computer engineering and mechanical and manufacturing engineering, the University is further elevating the educational experience by investing in a state-of-the-art facility to blend classroom and hands-on learning.

Home to longstanding programs in applied engineering, the BGSU Technology Building was approved in June for construction services that will transform the split-level structure into a top-tier learning space known as the Technology Engineering Innovation Center. The renovated building will include collaborative classrooms and adaptable space for cutting-edge robotics and engineering equipment.

“As a public university for the public good, Bowling Green State University is developing new academic programs that are in great demand, in areas such as healthcare and applied sciences,” BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers said. “These renovations will support our growing engineering programs and advanced technologies, providing our students with state-of-the-art facilities and learning opportunities to ensure they’re ready for career and life, as well as meeting critical workforce needs for our state.”

Ranked as the No. 1 university in Ohio for the student experience by Wall Street Journal, BGSU consistently evaluates ways to enhance its academic, housing and extracurricular spaces.

For the Technology Engineering Innovation Center, construction plans include selective demolition of the building's southern facade, an expanded footprint to the south and renovation of the existing east wing. Additional improvements will include upgrades to the building's heating, cooling, electrical and security systems.

"In the Technology Engineering Innovation Center, we're taking what we've learned and heard from students, faculty, staff and industry partners and are creating a top-tier learning space that supports engineering education and workforce needs," said April Smucker, associate vice president of planning, construction and campus operations at BGSU.

Set to be completed in Spring 2026, the BGSU Technology Engineering Innovation Center will feature seven large-scale specialty labs to facilitate experiential learning on the latest robotics and engineering technology. The facility will also house ultra-modern classrooms and collaboration space to support quality teaching and creative activities.

Supported by an innovative facility, students in the new BGSU programs will gain a comprehensive education that combines engineering fundamentals with strong foundations in math and science. Students also will acquire practical, hands-on technological expertise, enhancing their appeal to future employers.

"BGSU is investing in in-demand academic programs and facilities that support student success and career readiness," said Dr. Joe B. Whitehead Jr., provost and senior vice president at BGSU. "The cutting-edge Technology Engineering Innovation Center will further elevate BGSU engineering education by providing a one-of-a-kind space for quality teaching and experiential learning. Our students will graduate empowered with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to Ohio's growing engineering and advanced manufacturing needs."

Part of the overall BGSU Master Plan, the Technology Engineering Innovation Center will serve as the centerpiece to the campus' evolving STEM corridor, which is set to feature new and reimagined facilities over the next 15 years that support learning and career preparation in growing science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.

As STEM education evolves at BGSU to prepare graduates for careers in engineering and advanced manufacturing, so will facilities like the Technology Engineering Innovation Center, which will be designed with flexibility for future teaching needs and program growth.

"The Technology Engineering Innovation Center will feature a flexible, forward-thinking floor plan that's needed for ever-changing career fields," Smucker said. "As new technologies emerge, BGSU will be well-positioned to adapt those spaces to support future teaching and learning needs."