CB&I Pledges $750,000 for LSU College of Engineering Energy Innovation Laboratory

May 20, 2014 | LSU Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering

Multi-disciplinary teaching laboratory specifically designed to address energy industry trends.

LSU’s College of Engineering has announced a $750,000 gift commitment from CB&I to establish the CB&I Energy Innovation Lab* in the renovated Patrick F. Taylor Hall. The gift will help transform education by promoting integrated research and teaching for energy application solutions.

“CB&I is a key recruiter of LSU Engineering talent, and we are grateful for CB&I’s support of our students through this innovative learning space”, said Rick Koubek, dean and Bert S. Turner, chair in the College of Engineering.  “The CB&I Energy Innovation Lab* emphasizes agility as we modernize our teaching pedagogy to better meet current workforce needs.”

The new space will support integrated curricula to address changing industry trends and sources of energy that impact the global energy supply. The cohesive structure incorporates lecture class, laboratory and design projects, while promoting connections within engineering disciplines as students explore energy engineering concepts and solutions.

“CB&I is proud to support the growth in Louisiana, particularly through educational partnerships with universities such as LSU,” said Philip K. Asherman, CB&I’s President and Chief Executive Officer.

CB&I’s contribution will receive the one-to-one state match provided by the state of Louisiana under the agreement between the state and LSU to expand its engineering facilities.  

*Naming will occur upon approval of the LSU Board of Supervisors.

About CB&I
CB&I (NYSE:CBI) is the most complete energy infrastructure focused company in the world and a major provider of government services. With 125 years of experience and the expertise of approximately 55,000 employees, CB&I provides reliable solutions while maintaining a relentless focus on safety and an uncompromising standard of quality.

About Louisiana State University’s College of Engineering

Founded in 1908, the LSU College of Engineering offers eleven undergraduate degree programs and confers approximately 650 bachelor’s degrees per year, ranking it in the top 10 percent nationally for graduates. In 2013, it became the largest academic college in the LSU System and the fifth fastest growing engineering college in the nation. One hundred and thirty five faculty members engage in education, research, and commercialization with a strategic focus on research indigenous to Louisiana: energy and environmental sustainability, and natural and built infrastructure.

For more information about LSU's College of Engineering visit www.lsu.edu/eng.

Article by Mimi LaValle, LSU College of Engineering, 225-578-5706, mlavall@lsu.edu