The Materials & Specifications Pavers Project began with a simple question: How can we turn a real campus need into a meaningful learning experience for our students?
Each year during move-in at Abel Hall, vehicles need to cross the grass area in front of Kiewit Hall. The repeated traffic damages the turf, requiring University Facilities to repair or replace the grass. In addition to the recurring cost, the area can remain damaged for some time after move-in.
At the same time, we had been looking for opportunities to give students in Materials & Specifications more hands-on experience with materials such as pavers, concrete masonry units (CMUs), mortar, and other masonry products. Through conversations with Watkins and collaboration with University Facilities, we identified this location as an opportunity to solve a real campus problem while creating a meaningful learning experience.
Instead of creating a classroom exercise simply for the sake of learning, our students will build something that matters.
In the weeks leading up to construction, students will learn about design and construction regulations, building codes, building loads and their effects on structures, structural properties of building materials, thermal properties of construction materials, and clay masonry, concrete masonry, glass masonry, stone, and mortar products.
This project extends learning beyond technical knowledge and supports the Complete Engineer® by bringing together collaboration, communication, leadership, and community engagement.
Students are not simply completing an assignment—they are solving a real campus need, working alongside campus and industry partners, and applying what they learn in the classroom to build a lasting solution.
The finished pavers will represent more than a construction project. They will be a visible reminder that our students can use their knowledge and skills to serve their community and leave a lasting impact.