Trine University has received a $2 million pledge from the Steel Dynamics Foundation,
Inc. toward its new John and Mary Pellegrino Student Design Center.
In honor of the foundation’s support, the project fabrication space within the facility
will be named the Steel Dynamics Innovation Lab.
“We’re excited to see the Pellegrino Student Design Center come to fruition,” said
Mark D. Millett, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Steel Dynamics, Inc. “This
new facility will allow Trine University engineering students to gain hands-on experience
with even more sophisticated design projects and will provide opportunities for local
high school students and residents to enhance essential skills. We are proud to support
the continued development of these skills within our community, strengthening the
talent pool throughout the region.”
“For many years, the SDI Foundation has generously supported Trine University, and
we’re grateful for their continued investment in our efforts to equip students and
members of the community with the skills to lead, succeed and serve,” said Earl D.
Brooks II, Ph.D., Trine University president. “Their partnership has been a win-win
for both our organizations, as we proudly provide talented alumni to help SDI maintain
its leadership in the steel industry.”
A longtime supporter of Trine University, the Steel Dynamics Foundation, Inc. has
provided major gifts toward the Steel Dynamics, Inc. Center for Engineering and Computing,
the Brooks College of Health Professions, the Steel Dynamics, Inc./Keith E. Busse
Athletic and Recreation Center and the Thunder Ice Arena. The foundation also has
funded a scholarship program at Trine and supports the annual Scholarship Gala.
In addition, Steel Dynamics, Inc. provides internships, co-op and employment opportunities
to Trine students.
Robotics, aeronautics, powertrain
Located west of Best Hall, the $15 million, 22,000-square-feet Pellegrino Student
Design Center will include a new state-of-the-art robotics lab, an aeronautics lab
and a powertrain lab, among others.
More than 8,000 square feet of project fabrication space will allow the university
to accommodate more and larger projects completed by senior teams in the Allen School
of Engineering and Computing.
In addition to the building cost, the Pellegrino SDC will include $1.5 million worth
of design and fabrication equipment that will allow the university to meet the needs
of industry partners as well as student teams. Trine University also will be able
to expand workforce training opportunities for area high schools and businesses.
The building is expected to be complete in about 16 months.
