SDSU Breaks Ground on State-of-the-Art Sciences and Engineering Labs at Brawley Campus
Brawley CA - San Diego State University (SDSU) celebrated a significant milestone as leaders, elected officials, and community partners gathered for the official groundbreaking of the SDSU Imperial Valley Sciences and Engineering Laboratories in Brawley. The $80 million project, funded by both the state and university, aims to expand STEM opportunities and aligns with California's "Lithium Valley" initiative. The state-of-the-art facility, set to open in fall 2025, will play a crucial role in meeting the demands of the geothermal energy sector.
The ceremony, held on February 9, was attended by over 100 individuals, including faculty, staff, students, and local representatives. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the project's significance, stating, "This state-of-the-art teaching and research hub at San Diego State University Imperial Valley will advance access to skill-building and career pathways to high-opportunity, green jobs in California's Lithium Valley."
The Sciences and Engineering Laboratories, spanning 37,000 square feet, will feature a STEM Innovation Hub fostering collaboration among students and faculty. The design incorporates elements reflecting the culture and identity of the Imperial Valley community, emphasizing flexibility to accommodate future programs and instructional needs.
SDSU President Adela de la Torre expressed the university's commitment to the region, stating, "Not only will our Sciences and Engineering Laboratories significantly expand educational access within the region, it also builds on the many investments we have made over the last six years."
Aligned with Imperial County’s Lithium Valley initiative, the new hub will contribute to the university's commitment to meeting geothermal energy sector demands. Senator Steve Padilla highlighted the impact on workforce development, stating, "As the Lithium Valley becomes a key part of the world economy, the students trained here will be a crucial piece of that future."
Senators Ben Hueso and Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia played pivotal roles in securing additional state funding for the project. Garcia emphasized the economic empowerment and education the new facility brings to the region, stating, "The new Sciences and Engineering Laboratories, which includes a STEM Innovation District, is a vital component of our community-driven Lithium Valley vision."
SDSU Imperial Valley's expansion marks a significant enhancement to its sciences and health-related academic offerings. The Sciences and Engineering Laboratories are expected to prepare the next generation of leaders while fostering community, collaboration, and knowledge within the campus community. The university has also launched a new webpage outlining its commitment to meeting the higher education and workforce needs of the growing region, including the transformative Lithium Valley initiative.