Boise State University in Boise, Idaho, has officially begun construction on the ESI Construction Management Building, a cutting-edge facility designed to support the university’s rapidly growing construction management program. According to university news, the project is being developed in partnership with Engineered Structures, Inc. (ESI) and will provide state-of-the-art resources for students, faculty, and industry collaborators.

A Growing Program, A New Home

The new building comes at a critical time for Boise State’s construction management program, which has seen an 80% increase in enrollment over the past six years. As the demand for skilled construction professionals rises, the university has strengthened its partnerships with local contractors, offering students valuable internship opportunities that translate into real-world experience. These efforts have contributed to a 100% job placement rate for graduates of the program.

The ESI Construction Management Building is expected to enhance these opportunities by providing students with access to modern facilities that simulate real-world construction environments. The space will include classrooms, faculty offices, meeting rooms, and specialized lab spaces designed to support hands-on learning.

A Vision for the Future

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Boise State University President Dr. Marlene Tromp spoke about the university’s commitment to innovation and progress through education.

“When we talk about construction management, what we’re talking about is building. That’s what Boise State does. It builds stronger, more creative, more resilient and smarter people. It builds a stronger, more resilient and more creative Idaho,” said Dr. Tromp. “As we look forward to the future of this great state, we have so much to owe to all of you who have had a hand in taking the character of this program and using it to advance this state, to grow the impact of Boise State University, and to change our future for the better.”

Her remarks emphasized the university’s role in shaping the future of Idaho by preparing students for leadership roles in the construction industry.

Innovative Features and Industry Collaboration

The new building will be outfitted with the latest advancements in construction technology. Some of the key features include:

• A student collaboration space for teamwork and project development
• A 40-seat computer lab with industry-standard construction software
• Modern classrooms equipped with advanced learning tools
• Conference and competition team rooms for student organizations and industry engagement
• A high bay area featuring an overhead crane for hands-on training
• A dedicated outdoor learning space for construction demonstrations and experiments

In addition to its partnership with ESI, the university is collaborating with Lombard/Conrad Architects to design a facility that meets the needs of students and industry professionals alike. The building will reflect modern construction practices, sustainability initiatives, and industry trends.

Meeting Industry Demand

e skills and experience needed to succeed.As Idaho continues to experience rapid population and economic growth, the demand for construction professionals remains high. Boise State’s investment in the new facility underscores its commitment to preparing students for leadership roles in the field. The program's close ties with the construction industry help ensure that graduates are equipped with th

The ESI Construction Management Building represents a significant step forward for the university and the region’s construction workforce. Once completed, the facility will not only support education and training but also strengthen connections between the university and the construction industry, paving the way for future innovation and growth.

Construction on the new building is expected to be completed in the coming years, marking a new chapter for Boise State’s construction management program.