IPSWICH - To call the University of Southern Queensland’s new Engineering Lab an ‘extension’ is an understatement. 

  The original single storey lab opened its doors in 2014, but on Friday, USQ celebrated the more than $7 million expansion by revealing a multi-level makeover. 

 Developing advanced robotics technology, testing new flame retardant materials and formulating food for space travel are just a few of the things the building has to offer Springfield students.  

 The building was officially opened by Senator Paul Scarr, who was joined by other Ipswich representatives, Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, Mayor Teresa Harding, Deputy Mayor Nicole Jonic, and Springfield City Group chairman Maha Sinnathamby. 

Senator Scarr said the refurbished building offered a wider range of practical learning to engineering and surveying students, which was all part of Mr Sinnathamby’s Springfield master plan. 

“Maha, this is your vision,” he said, 

“It continues to unfold, piece by piece and it’s an absolute inspiration and I know part of that vision is providing educational opportunities for everyone and that goes to the very heart of the vision for this community.” 

 The building expansion cost the university $5.8 million. 

USQ also funded upgraded features such as specialised teaching and research spaces equipped with $1.5 million worth of world class technology and equipment.

 The labs feature robotics and automation, future materials development, power and energy testing, civil and structural engineering, and a preparation room for surveying students.

  Head of School for Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Alexander Kist said one of the most important inclusions in the expansion was the cross-disciplinary space where students could collaborate on solving real-world problems.

 “An important part of engineering is that students can get their hands dirty and they’re actually able to do experiments with industry style gear,” he said.  

“So having laboratory facilities is essential and that’s why we’re excited for this building.” 

Professor Kist said the facilities would mean engineering courses and subjects previously only offered at the Toowoomba campus, would now also be available for Springfield students. 

“We are able to take on all the students that are interested in coming so it will now certainly allow us to support them more with the practical learning,” he said. 

“It’s very exciting.” 

The building boasts large glass walls with open areas throughout the building. 

 Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie said the design emphasised ‘engineering on display’ and fostered collaboration to spark curiosity – both from inside the building and out.

“One of our biggest goals was to have a facility that showcased everything happening in the rooms and labs, from learning and designing, assembly of technology to testing, experimenting and optimisation,” she said.

 “We wanted a facility where students can share ideas and gain practical experience so that when they graduate, they have the skills that industry needs, both now and into the future.

  “Having the labs, the technology and collaborative spaces boosts our capacity for innovation and ability to conduct cutting-edge research.”