Work to begin on $1.149 million facility renovation on ATU-Ozark campus

Work is set to begin on a $1.149 million renovation of the Industrial Control Systems building on the Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus after the ATU Board of Trustees approved a contract with EWI Constructors of Russellville.

Renovation of the building will be partially funded with a $1 million regional workforce grant from the Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ADHE), and proceeds from the ATU-Ozark educational and general fund approved by the ATU Board in August 2022.

Constructed in 1976, the ATU-Ozark Industrial Control Systems Building provides 6,000 square feet of space for academic programs in automation, industrial electronics and computer information technology.

“These are in-demand, STEM programs that lead directly to rewarding careers and fulfill a market need for employees with these skills,” Bruce Sikes, ATU-Ozark Chancellor Bruce Sikes said in a statement. “Current lab and instructional spaces supporting automation instruction are limited in student spaces and are not congruent nor representative of the 21st century manufacturing environments of today. We are grateful for ADHE’s consideration of ATU-Ozark Campus and this high-priority project.”

Renovation work provide interior spaces specific to program demand and update utilities, lighting and air systems. In addition, the project will provide modern automation lab space, relieve flooding issues, provide appropriate handicap accessibility, meet restroom standards, update power needs and restore the roof structure. The work is expected to be finished by August.

There were 1,735 ATU-Ozark students as of the 11th day of the fall 2022 semester, and the Franklin County campus has around 97 faculty and staff.