Rutgers University is full of extracurricular clubs, but finding adequate space for their endeavors can be a challenge. Thanks to a gift from Rutgers School of Engineering (SoE) alumnus Bruce Nicholas (1949) and his wife Phyllis, two clubs affiliated with the School of Engineering now have ample space to undertake their projects inside the new Bruce and Phyllis Nicholas Engineering Student Projects Studio.
The Nicholas Engineering Student Projects Studio is a “little jewel” of a building, and Dave Schulz, Vice President and University Architect, explains how this remarkable studio building came about. “In early 2018 (then) Dean Tom Farris spoke to me about his vision for student projects space. Since its inception in 1989, the Rutgers Formula Racing (RFR) Team had been in old ‘found’ space that was not highly functional, and the students’ work was hidden away. RFR is a point of pride for the School of Engineering, and Dean Farris thought that the building should display and celebrate the talent of the students at SoE. In our discussion and research of similar facilities, I said the building wanted to be a “little jewel” that SoE students, faculty, and alumni could point to with pride. After a few concept sketches the Dean was sold on the idea. The Dean was able to present the images, ideas, and vision to Bruce and Phyllis Nicholas, and their generous gift kick-started the project.”
“The students in this building are members of School of Engineering clubs, and they enter their projects into nationwide intercollegiate competitions,” said Tom Rosenkilde, Senior Facilities Project Manager, who oversaw the construction of the building.
Rosenkilde describes the 5,000 square foot building as a “purpose built” facility. Inside, the Rutgers Formula Racing Team and the Rutgers Solar Car Team each have ample space to build their concept vehicles. Each club has its own workspace. Diamond polished concrete floors throughout the building allow for easy cleanup, there is space for welding, and an enhanced ventilation system vents all fumes. There is also extra power and a compressed air system throughout the building.
While each club has its own dedicated workshop, the conference room is shared, and a machine tool room is also shared space. Sound absorbing panels were used throughout the building, including in the ceiling. Floor to ceiling windows allow for a flood of natural light and orange accent walls add more brightness to a space that lends itself to innovation. There is also dedicated storage for lithium batteries used by both clubs for the production of their cars. “The race car club has decided to concentrate on building electric cars, so both clubs have a need for lithium batteries and their proper storage,” Rosenkilde explained.
“The space will make the students more competitive, and this type of facility also aids in recruitment efforts,” said Rosenkilde.
“This is also the first net-zero building for the university, meaning the total amount of energy used by the building on an annual basis is equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site,” Rosenkilde said. The building has a small footprint but has been planned to double in size to accommodate future needs.
“This is an exciting project in many ways,” said Nicholas L. Fabbroni, IP&O’s Assistant Vice President of Project Services. “It provides a creative outlet for our student projects; intercollegiate competitions are integral to the learning experience and having the right space to create is like a jump start for these projects. The building displays the work that the students do, in an iconic setting that makes the school proud. Less visible than the student work, but no less important, is the energy infrastructure that makes this the university’s first net-zero building. This building is tangible support of the Rutgers Climate Action Plan.”
The reaction of the Engineering students has been remarkable. Perhaps the Rutgers Formula Racing website says it best: “From the minute you step foot into our new $7M July 2022 constructed shop, you'll be put to the test….We don't care whether you know it all or know nothing. We're here to get you to where you want to be. When you walk through our doors, you join a family ready to teach you how to run a small business, design and build a racecar, or anything in between.”
Rutgers Institutional Planning and Operations is proud to be part of a team that delivered such an inspirational building that supports student excellence. We are Supporting Today, Envisioning Tomorrow.
