HARRY MORRISON CIVIL ENGINEERING LAB RENOVATION
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
In the College of Engineering at Boise State University, experiential learning has become a crucial component of the total student experience in every academic program. Experiential learning, better known as handson learning, increases student engagement and retention which has helped the College of Engineering become the largest engineering college in the state of Idaho.
We foster a collaborative and inclusive environment where students can thrive. The college boasts a distinguished faculty body composed of accomplished researchers and industry professionals. These experts are not only dedicated educators, but also mentors who are committed to nurturing students’ intellectual growth and professional development. With guidance and mentorship, students receive personalized attention and support throughout their academic journey.
As a leading Intermountain West college known for its exceptional academic programs, innovative research opportunities, and commitment to student success, we offer a vibrant learning environment with state-of-theart facilities. For the last 25 years, driven by our mission and values, we have provided scholars with pathways to fulfilled careers through high quality education with impact at city, state, and global levels.
Our Mission
The College of Engineering’s mission is to create an accessible environment with an “unshakeable focus on learning” where we empower all to think critically and solve our world’s complex challenges.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be a leading student success driven college recognized for excellence in teaching and scholarship with statewide and global impact.
Our Values
We excel through I3:
• Inclusion- We are dedicated to creating an inclusive excellence where all belong; an inclusive, open, and diverse community of learners can create the solutions of today’s complex, global challenges.
• Innovation- We strive for a creative, collaborative, relevant, and reflective environment that ensures we are developing cutting-edge learning paradigms and experiences through out teaching and research endeavors.
• Integrity- We are committed to ethical and honest behavior in all that we do, with responsibility to the highest professional standards.
A WORKFORCE ON THE RISE
Over the next decade, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates employment for civil engineers will grow 5% faster than the average for all occupations.
Roughly more than 21,000 openings are projected every year until 2032 on average. Many of these openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, many from retirement.
Civil Engineers
Percent Change in Employment, projected 2022-2023
In Idaho, the state employs more than 2,000 civil engineers with roughly 350 job openings per year.
IDAHO’S LARGEST CIVIL PROGRAM
After 25 years, the Department of Civil Engineering has grown into the largest civil engineering program in the state of Idaho. Enrollment surpassed 200 students this past Fall, with more than 25% being first-generation college students.
Over the last five years, the civil engineering program has nearly doubled in degrees granted annually – from 39 to 60 bachelor’s degrees. The program has also seen a 300% increase in graduate degrees granted annually in that same time.
With the state’s newly established Idaho Launch program, we expect the high-demand careers in civil engineering to continue attracting students to Boise State, continuing our upward trajectory.
$2 MILLION RENOVATION FOR THE FUTURE
The Harry Morrison Lab Phase I renovation targets improving the quality and spaces for our growing civil engineering program. The renovation’s $2 million costs will update current teaching lab and research facilities for cutting-edge education and research in environmental, structural, and water resources engineering.
Our civil engineering program is experiencing unprecedented growth and the demand for high-quality engineers has never been greater in the state of Idaho. The HML renovation would double teaching capacity from 12-16 students per session to 24-32 students and increase access to state-of-the-art equipment and technologies critical to educating and graduating students who are workforce ready. These flexible spaces with sustainable designs support diverse student needs while remaining competitive.
Now is the time to invest in the future of civil engineering education – join us in shaping the future at Boise State by making a positive impact on the civil engineering community, supporting the future generation of engineers who will ensure our communities are strong, safe, and structurally sound.
“The HML building is where I had my first hands-on experiences with engineering. From applying classroom concepts to technical lab procedures to gathering for engineering clubs and groups, the HML is where the practical application of engineering came alive. The building has provided a location for many invaluable experiences to my education. I look forward to seeing the improvements and the impact it will have on the future generations of Boise State College of Engineering students.”
— Katie Taugher, CE Alum ‘22
MODERNIZING THE HOME OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
In 1997 when Boise State University established the College of Engineering, Boise philanthropist Velma Morrison announced a $2 million donation from the Harry W. Morrison Foundation for the construction of a civil engineering building. The two-story, 14,000 square foot facility became Boise State’s first facility solely for engineering.
Across the last decade as our academic programs grew, the Harry Morrison Civil Engineering Building became the student hub for experiential learning providing a strong and welcoming environment for the college community. Phase 1 of the HML renovation gives Boise State the ability to provide for today’s students who break the mold and tackle the challenges of our time.
The renovation would include three laboratories that house concrete, soils, fluids, and other testing areas, and a flexible teaching classroom. This ensures civil engineering students continue receiving a comprehensive education with specializations in environmental, geotechnical, sustainability, and transportation.
BHASKAR CHITTOORI, PH.D.
Chair & Professor, Civil Engineering
(208) 426-3794
bhaskarchittoori@boisestate.edu
SCOTT JURGENS ‘06
Senior Director of Development, College of Engineering
(208) 426-2563
scottjurgens@boisestate.edu
BRENDA RODRIGUEZ ‘20
Advancement Coordinator, College of Engineering
(208) 426-1444
brendarodriguez396@boisestate.edu