NE North Dakota News

UND has begun construction on a new STEM Complex, a project valued at $163 million that aims to change science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education in North Dakota. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on September 19 in the Tom & Carolyn Hamilton Atrium of the Collaborative Energy Complex and was attended by university leaders, legislators, donors, faculty, students, and community members.

“This project is much bigger than just educating engineers and scientists,” said UND President Andy Armacost. “It’s about how those graduates will support our communities, drive innovation and shape the future. The STEM Complex will be a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration and a launchpad for moonshot ideas that connect technology with humanity.”

The planned facility will be three stories tall with 179,000 square feet of space and is expected to serve more than 6,000 students each year. It will include classrooms, laboratories, makerspaces, student success centers, as well as spaces for advising and tutoring. The building is also intended to host esports tournaments and robotics competitions.

According to Ryan Adams, dean of the College of Engineering & Mines: “This facility represents a bold leap forward. It will house cutting-edge labs, collaborative spaces and student innovation hubs that reflect the evolving needs of engineering and science education. We’re proud to be part of a project that will set UND apart in the region and the nation.”

Brad Rundquist, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences added: “Science and engineering naturally complement one another, and this building is designed to bring them together in meaningful ways. By breaking down disciplinary boundaries, we’re creating a space that fosters discovery, drives economic development, and prepares students for real-world challenges.”

The STEM Complex forms part of the Forever UND Campaign which seeks to raise funds for educational initiatives at the university. The first phase fundraising goal of $25 million has been met; an additional $25 million is being sought for phase two. State funding totaling $112 million was allocated over two legislative sessions by the North Dakota Legislature.

“There’s a growing recognition of the excellence in North Dakota’s higher education system,” said State Rep. Mark Sanford from Grand Forks’ District 17. “This legislative investment reflects our commitment to providing the facilities needed to support that excellence. I’m proud to see UND leading the way.”