The new mechanical engineering complex, whose construction is tentatively scheduled for completion in seven years, will have approximately 120,000 square feet of usable space, compared to currently available total space of 78,000. Preliminary plans call for one of the two buildings of the complex to house a large auditorium, classrooms, computer laboratories, seminar rooms, high-tech lecture rooms, a distance learning center, and faculty, staff, and graduate students offices. The laboratory building, which will be built first, will allow the department to adjust to technological advances and new trends.
Plans also call for a multi-functional atrium between the classroom and laboratory buildings.
The spacious and naturally illuminated atrium will contain bridges, connecting the two buildings, that offer views of the lobby below and the Central Campus. The atrium could become the centerpiece of the complex and the site for many departmental events and gatherings of faculty, students, alums and industry visitors. Major gift opportunities in the building project include naming the classroom building, the atrium, instructional and research laboratories, lecture halls and special use facilities within the buildings. In his new role, Thompson is responsible for planning, engineering and management services for transportation, water resources and environmental projects in the Austin area. David Allen Demorest EE '60 passed away at his home in California from cancer on July 3,1999.