On April 6th, Alaska’s Commissioner of Transportation and Public Facilities, Marc Luiken, gave an address to AUTC staff, students, and partners at UAF’s College of Engineering and Mines outlining the growing need for Alaska engineers. Updating these developments, the Alaska State Legislature issued the following announcement Friday:
JUNEAU-On Sunday, when the Alaska State Legislature passed the FY13 Capital Budget, it included half the funding needed for complete construction of engineering buildings at the University of Alaska-Anchorage and the University of Alaska-Fairbanks.
Funding will support plans for both new construction and renovation of existing facilities and will provide the specialized labs and classrooms necessary to grow the next generation of Alaska engineers at both the UAF and UAA campuses. Students in a number of programs at both campuses, including from the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP) will benefit from the added academic and technical facilities.
“This is a major accomplishment for engineering workforce development. Senator Ellis and I have been working with the engineering community for several years to secure funding for these projects. I’m proud the Legislature could come together for this investment in Alaska’s future,” said Senator Joe Thomas.
The appropriation will support the site preparation, foundation, and super structure for new buildings as well as the modernization of the outdated engineering facilities at the UAA and UAF campuses.
“When Fairbanks and Anchorage legislators work together, we can accomplish great things that will benefit all of Alaska. These buildings were needed and supported by a statewide coalition of students and the many private sector businesses reliant on engineering graduates. This is an important step forward in terms of providing industry with engineering graduates and all young Alaskans with pathways to prosperity,” said Senator Johnny Ellis.
The FY13 Capital Budget now goes to the Governor for his signature.
For more information, please contact Matt Moser in Senator Ellis’ office at (907) 465-1887.
