By David V. Jauregui, Interim dean, NMSU College of Engineering
Our goal at the College of Engineering at New Mexico State University is to prepare our students for success in their next endeavors, whether they are entering the workforce or pursuing further education. With graduation just weeks away, they possess the knowledge, skills and creativity to improve the quality of life for others in myriad ways.
Central to achieving this mission is access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, and we are fortunate to be making progress toward two new transformative spaces that will significantly advance this goal. This mission is not ours alone — it is shared and supported by many individuals and organizations that make it possible.
One significant step toward this goal is the recent groundbreaking for the construction of the New Mexico Mutual Metal Additive Manufacturing Center. The new center, funded in part by a generous donation from New Mexico Mutual, will provide advanced capabilities in metal manufacturing through metal 3D printing, expanding the offerings of the Aggie Innovation Space machine shop and student-managed makerspace. The facility will give faculty members and students access to cutting-edge resources to create prototypes and design projects, while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
This initiative also positions NMSU as a driving force for economic development in the Borderplex region, supporting growth in advanced manufacturing, logistics, job creation and workforce development.
Another major advancement is the rebuilding of Thomas and Brown Hall, home of the Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, with support from state funding. Demolition is currently underway on the original building, constructed in 1971, to make way for a modern facility designed to enhance the educational infrastructure for engineering students and faculty. In addition to upgraded laboratories and classrooms, the new building will feature experiential, multidisciplinary learning spaces that promote collaboration.
These new facilities will serve as resources that extend beyond the College of Engineering. They will be available to students and faculty from across NMSU, offering opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary projects, collaborate with industry partners and gain valuable hands-on experience.
Both projects build on NMSU’s existing strengths in critical and emerging areas such as hypersonics, water, cybersecurity, energy and advanced manufacturing, providing a strong foundation for continued research and innovation. These initiatives were brought to life through the vision of several individuals, including former College of Engineering Dean Lakshmi Reddi; Assistant Dean of Experiential Learning and Student Success and Interim Associate Dean of Academics Gabe Garcia; and Electrical and Computer Engineering Department Head Steve Stochaj.
The realization of each facility is the result of the dedication and support of many, and we are deeply grateful to all who have prioritized the future of our students and our university.
New Mexico voters approved the demolition and reconstruction of Thomas and Brown Hall by passing the allocation of $22.5 million through the 2022 General Obligation Bond, which was later supplemented with $10 million from the state’s General Fund in 2024. Our elected officials played a critical role in securing this support. Alongside them, generous private donors — many of whom are long-standing contributors to the college — have provided additional funding to bring this project to fruition.
New Mexico Mutual, which funded the Metal Additive Manufacturing Center, has been a steadfast supporter of NMSU and workforce development across the state. Inspiration for the gift came following a 2022 visit by New Mexico Mutual CEO Kellie Mixon and Vice President of Marketing Claudia Sanchez. This facility will establish NMSU as a leader in advanced manufacturing and help stimulate economic growth throughout New Mexico.
The vision and generosity of each supporter of these facilities represent a profound investment in the future of engineering education at NMSU. We are sincerely thankful for their unwavering commitment to innovation, student success and the advancement of engineering education in New Mexico. These state-of-the-art environments for learning, research and collaboration ensure that our current and future students and faculty have the tools they need to thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.
David V. Jauregui is the interim dean for the College of Engineering at New Mexico State University. He may be reached at jauregui@nmsu.edu.