Support the AEB Modernization

The UNI Department of Applied Engineering & Technical Management houses an umbrella of programs that educate students for some of the highest-need sectors in Iowa. Several of these industries are facing a talent shortage, leaving critical openings that will require thousands of skilled workers.

The department is recognized for its leading role in meeting workforce needs in Iowa and beyond, but the facility that houses the programs — the Applied Engineering Building (AEB) — has not kept pace with modern curricular and industry needs, and has limited the growth potential of the programs.

In 2020 the Iowa legislature approved the university’s funding request toward renovating and expanding the AEB, allocating $40.5 million to the capital project. UNI must raise an additional $4.2 million from industry partners and private donors to ensure the new facility is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology that will deliver the skilled workforce tomorrow needs.

metal casting students

We need your support.

Your support is needed to improve the AEB, ensuring we can better serve the workforce needs of Iowa industry, provide advanced career opportunities for Iowa residents, and to better prepare teachers to teach technical education disciplines.

Your investment will ensure the margin of excellence for students in the new facility, enabling them to learn, experience, and graduate with project-based experience using advanced technology, software and equipment.

Take your gift further...

A range of spaces — labs, computer classrooms and common areas — are available to be named in recognition of your gift. You may also donate to a specific classroom or lab, donate equipment, or more. Many companies offer a matching donation – so you'll have the chance to double your impact.

For more information on giving, contact Cassie Luze, senior director of development, at cassie.luze@uni.edu

Goals of the Applied Engineering Building modernization project

Expand Opportunities

Expand applied student learning, research and collaboration opportunities, while continuing to deliver an industry-ready curriculum with technology-enhanced labs that meet industry standards.

Serve Iowa's Workforce Needs

Our focus is to serve the workforce needs of Iowa’s growing economic sectors. We do this by educating students in high-demand areas such as technical project management, manufacturing, construction management, graphic and packaging production, and middle and high school technology, engineering and industrial education disciplines.

Strengthen Industry Partnerships

Strengthen partnerships with industry associations including Master Builders of Iowa, Associated Builders and Contractors of Iowa, Associated General Contractors of Iowa, IEEE, Foundry Educational Foundation, and Society of Manufacturing Engineers.