As the demand for skilled labor continues to rise, JonesDBR is proud to support workforce development initiatives through the design of high-performance, adaptable training environments. Most recently, JonesDBR partnered on two Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) projects in Corpus Christi and Brownsville, delivering MEPT engineering solutions that align with TEEX’s mission to provide hands-on, career-focused instruction.
Corpus Christi
In collaboration with Gignac & Associates, JonesDBR is providing mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and technology (MEPT) engineering services for the renovation of the third floor of a five-story building owned by Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. This new space will house TEEX programs focused on hands-on and lecture-style training for coastal and trade-related industries, including instruction involving shipping containers and operational loading zones.
The renovated floor includes a variety of instructional and support spaces, such as classrooms, collaborative areas, two specialized training labs, a conference room, breakroom, mechanical room, and restrooms. The training labs feature an overhead Starline power distribution system in addition to traditional outlets, enabling flexible equipment configurations.
JonesDBR’s services extend beyond MEP design to include technology consulting, sustainability assessments, life cycle cost analysis, and commissioning. The estimated construction cost for the renovation is $9.2 million.
Key Challenges and Solutions:
Although initial concerns were raised about airflow and electrical capacity, it was confirmed that existing feeders and overall building power were adequate for utility capacity on the third floor. JonesDBR replaced the panelboards with new ones of the same capacity but reconfigured to accommodate additional breakers, supporting the greater number of powered devices required for TEEX programming. For ventilation, outside air solutions were coordinated with the structural engineer to meet performance needs.
Given that training sessions may be brief and the facility is not staffed with dedicated security, access control was a priority. Staff will use the university’s existing card reader system. To avoid the need for issuing badges to short-term students, a video doorbell system will be installed at the building’s main entrance. This system connects to the third-floor reception desk, allowing remote entry control while maintaining building security during operating hours.
The Corpus Christi facility is being designed to deliver secure, high-performance training environments that accommodate both short-term certification and long-term learning tracks.
Brownsville
In Brownsville, JonesDBR is partnering with PBK Architects to deliver MEP design, technology integration, and sustainability consulting for a new, ground-up workforce training facility. This one-story, 32,844-square-foot pre-engineered metal building will serve as a hub for workforce development and advanced manufacturing instruction.
The facility will support training in areas such as mechatronics, computer numeric control (CNC), robotics, programmable logic controller (PLC) systems, 3D printing, and manufacturing fundamentals. Planned spaces include five classrooms, four specialized labs for heavy machinery training, administrative offices, a forklift training area, a high-bay space for hands-on instruction, and exterior areas for heavy equipment training. The estimated construction cost is $22.2 million.
The HVAC system will consist of central station air handling units serving dual-duct variable air volume (VAV) boxes; MDF and IDF rooms will be supported by generator or UPS backup; and the fire protection system will be designed in accordance with NFPA 13 standards.
Environmental and Site Considerations:
Located at the Port of Brownsville near the coast, the facility design addresses unique site challenges, including corrosion risks due to high humidity and salt exposure. The project also required strategic utility planning to overcome limited existing infrastructure in the area.
These two TEEX facilities are part of a broader effort to support workforce development across Texas. By delivering technically sound and future-ready environments, the project teams are helping to equip the next generation of skilled workers with the tools and spaces they need to succeed.
