Northern Michigan’s Housing Project to Offer Students Hands-On Learning

MARQUETTE, Mich. — Students at Northern Michigan University (NMU) in Marquette will be getting more than just new dorms when a 1,200-bed housing project is completed in phases in fall 2017 and 2018. The project team recently signed an agreement with the university to give students in the construction management program the opportunity to gain hands-on experience during construction — the first phase of which began on Aug. 4.

The project team consists of Memphis, Tenn.-based EdR as the project developer; Detroit-based Walbridge as the contractor; and Southfield, Mich.-based architecture firm Neumann/Smith.

Heidi Blanch, a construction management professor at NMU, proposed the agreement, stating that this kind of first-hand experience provides another level of depth that goes beyond typical textbook and classroom teaching.

“Any time students can see the actual application of concepts we talk about in class or the lab, it’s a huge advantage,” Blanch said in a statement. “It’s difficult to simulate the decision-making and coordination required for a project of this scope. Students who are motivated to go the extra mile will gain a better understanding of the process and be able to communicate that to prospective employers.”

“This cooperative learning project is consistent with NMU’s mission to give its students in-depth, hands-on learning experiences,” added Mark Grambergs, EdR vice president of real estate development, in a statement. “The students here will have access to all phases of the process for a project of this size rather than limiting their experience to just the development or construction management pieces of the project.”

Students who participated in the program will get also get the chance to live in the building once it’s completed, Grambergs added.

The new housing facilities are being constructed to address the growing housing needs for the 9,000-student campus. They will feature classrooms, study rooms, TV lounges and laundry facilities in addition to student living spaces. A large patio area, fireplaces and lobbies will also accommodate art shows, student events, university functions and various types of entertainment for residents year round, according to a statement.