MnWest Jackson Campus: Powerline Technician Training Facility Engineering

Project Overview

BKBM Engineers delivered structural engineering services for a new powerline technician training facility in Minnesota. The project required selective demolition of a portion of an existing two-story concrete pan and joist structure to allow construction of a modern, 36-foot-high pre-engineered metal building on the same site. As a trusted structural engineering firm, BKBM ensured every detail met the unique needs of technical training and workforce safety.

Project Drivers: Values & Vision

The vision for this facility was to foster hands-on education and workforce development for Minnesota’s powerline technicians. Project goals centered on adaptability, safety, and creating an environment capable of supporting real-world utility maintenance and installation scenarios.

 

Key Challenges & BKBM Solutions

  • Foundation Design: Engineered new foundations for a 36-foot-high pre-engineered metal building, providing stability and resilience for heavy-duty training activities.
  • Structural Reinforcement: Strengthened adjacent existing buildings to accommodate new floor loads and to address increased snow drift loads introduced by the new addition, ensuring continued safety and integrity.
  • Fit-for-Purpose Indoor Training Space: Delivered a flexible, high-clearance training environment suitable for teaching pole installation and removal, pole climbing, safe equipment operation, and other critical skills central to powerline technician education.

Collaboration & Community Engagement

BKBM worked closely with educational leaders, construction teams, and facility stakeholders, demonstrating the power of engineering partnership to advance workforce preparedness and community safety.

Cultural Heritage & Environmental Stewardship

The redevelopment supports local workforce growth, revitalizes an existing site, and fosters sustainability by repurposing infrastructure for new educational needs.

Results & Impact

The completed facility offers:

  • A cutting-edge, safe indoor space for practical training and skill-building
  • Strengthened infrastructure for ongoing use and future expansion
  • Enhanced workforce development for Minnesota’s powerline technician community