Grand Forks — The University of North Dakota is pushing ahead with “STEM U,” a major campus expansion aimed at strengthening science, technology, engineering, and math education. The project includes cutting-edge labs, flexible classrooms, and modern engineering workspaces designed to prepare students for in-demand careers and keep talent in North Dakota. Construction work and design phases are moving quickly, with UND leaders planning phased openings beginning next year.
North Dakota continues to see rapid growth in technology, aviation, cybersecurity, and engineering sectors — and UND aims to stay ahead. The STEM U initiative reflects the university’s long-term strategy to support innovation and future-ready careers.
The project will include:
New lab facilities for robotics, aviation tech, and biomedical research
Expanded engineering design and maker-space rooms
Updated classrooms for collaborative STEM learning
Student support hubs for tutoring, advising, and innovation programs
UND has already invested in major academic upgrades in recent years — including the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration and expansion in the university’s aerospace systems — and STEM U is another step to keep UND competitive nationally.
“North Dakota needs more engineers, more scientists, and more innovators,” UND President Andrew Armacost said during a campus update. “STEM U is an investment in our students and in the future of our state. We want UND graduates building companies, designing aircraft systems, and solving global challenges — starting right here in Grand Forks.”
Students are equally excited. UND engineering major Sarah Thompson said, “Hands-on labs and maker spaces help us learn by actually building and testing things. These upgrades mean more opportunity and better preparation for real-world jobs.”
As technology and industry grow across the state — from Grand Forks’ expanding tech corridor to statewide UAS and cybersecurity projects — UND’s STEM U buildings promise to anchor the next generation of engineers, scientists, pilots, and innovators.
Construction is underway, and Grand Forks residents will soon see a new symbol of UND’s mission rising across campus — one designed to keep North Dakota on the leading edge of education and technology.
