CEI will celebrate the opening of the approximately $52 million, 88,000-square-foot facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony today, Aug. 13, at 1 p.m. The new building was created to meet growing student demand, expand hands-on training and prepare more Idahoans for careers in some of the region’s fastest-growing industries. That demand continues to rise: CEI saw an 8.8% increase in summer headcount and is currently tracking an almost 8% increase for the fall semester, which begins August 17.

“This building is much more than additional space. It is an investment in our students, our employers and the future of Eastern Idaho,” said CEI President Dr. Lori Barber. “Inside these classrooms and labs, students will gain the hands-on experience, confidence and industry connections they need to move directly into high-demand careers. This is what becomes possible when education, industry and community come together around a shared vision.”

The two-level facility includes 10 classrooms, 12 advanced laboratories and flexible collaborative spaces designed to evolve alongside changing technology and workforce needs. Programs located in the building include:

• Associate of Engineering
• Cybersecurity
• Digital Forensics and Analytics
• Energy Systems Technology
• Information Technology Services
• Mechatronics Engineering Technology
• BEA Applied STEM Institute
• Surgical Technology

Grouping these programs under one roof reflects a deliberate strategy. Students move between labs that mirror the real equipment and challenges they'll encounter in Eastern Idaho's job market, from Idaho National Laboratory's energy and engineering work to the region's growing healthcare and tech employers.

Partnerships Powering Opportunity

The Future Tech Building was made possible through support from the State of Idaho and significant investments from Battelle Energy Alliance and Frontier Credit Union.

Battelle Energy Alliance, which manages Idaho National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy, contributed a total of $5.5 million to support the building and establish the BEA Applied STEM Institute.

The institute will connect students, educators, community leaders and industry partners through applied STEM education and career exploration. It will help students build technical skills, discover career pathways and connect earlier with opportunities in energy, engineering and other critical industries.

“Strong partnerships build lasting capability,” Idaho National Laboratory Director John Wagner said. “Our work with the College of Eastern Idaho is an investment in the next generation of scientists, engineers and skilled professionals who will help advance Idaho National Laboratory's mission, strengthen the nation's energy leadership and support American innovation for decades to come.”

Frontier Credit Union contributed $3.5 million to the project and established a dedicated scholarship program for CEI students pursuing STEM education. For the upcoming semester, scholarships have been awarded to 5 students, furthering Frontier's commitment to Building Better Lives through education and workforce development.The credit union also holds naming rights to the Frontier Credit Union Conference Center, a 4,087-square-foot gathering space located inside the building.

"At Frontier Credit Union, our mission of Building Better Lives extends beyond banking. It means investing in opportunities that strengthen our communities for generations to come," said Dan Thurman, President and CEO of Frontier Credit Union. "Our partnership with CEI and Battelle Energy Alliance reflects our commitment to empowering students, supporting workforce development, and helping build the skilled talent that will drive Eastern Idaho's future. We're honored to be part of a project that creates lasting opportunities for students, local employers, and our entire region."

A Building for Campus and Community

The Frontier Credit Union Conference Center can accommodate up to 370 people and offers theater, banquet and stage configurations. Equipped with a projector, computer system and microphones, the center will host lectures, conferences, educational events and community gatherings.

Community members and organizations may reserve the conference center and other CEI spaces by visiting cei.edu/rent-room or contacting CEI Events at events@cei.edu.

Construction on the Future Tech Building began in August 2024. Lombard Conrad Architects designed the facility, and Andersen Construction served as the general contractor. The project also adds approximately 225 parking spaces to the CEI campus.

Following today’s ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests will have the opportunity to tour the building, explore its classrooms and laboratories and learn more about the programs that will begin operating in the facility this fall.

The Battelle Energy Alliance Future Tech Building in partnership with Frontier Credit Union is located on the CEI campus at 1600 S. 25th E. in Idaho Falls.

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About College of Eastern Idaho
College of Eastern Idaho offers associate degrees, select bachelor’s degrees, technical certificates, and workforce training programs to help students achieve their educational and career goals. With a focus on affordability, accessibility, and student success, CEI is dedicated to providing high-quality education and training to the residents of eastern Idaho—redefining what comes next. Visit cei.edu for more information.

About Battelle
Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit www.battelle.org.

About Frontier Credit Union

Frontier Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative dedicated to Building Better
Lives. Through exceptional service, financial education, and meaningful community
partnerships, Frontier helps members achieve their financial goals while investing in the
communities it serves. Visit frontiercreditunion.com for more information.