Best Projects
Best Specialty Construction: Collin College Technical Campus
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Collin College Technical Campus
Allen, Texas
BEST PROJECT
OWNER: Collin College
LEAD DESIGN FIRM: Perkins + Will
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: McCarthy Building Cos.
ELECTRICAL SUBCONTRACTOR: Walker Engineering Inc.
SUBCONTRACTORS: Hick’s Lightning Protection; Koetter Fire Protection; Magnum; MEI; SYB Construction; U-Con Construction
Numerous electrical installations were required on this $13.3-million, 340,000-sq-ft four-building technical college, including distribution, interior and exterior lighting, lighting controls and an emergency backup generator.
The overhead electrical system design exposes MEP, fire sprinkler and Teledata cabling, which are intentionally visible for students, staff and visitors. More than 6,700 LED light fixtures were installed, including a 517-ft-long corridor run.
Photo by Erik Kluetz
Built on a 32-acre site, the branch electrical distribution on this project was critical—every space had specific types of power connections. In the shop areas, Walker installed overhead retractable power spools that could be used for connecting tools and equipment, and in the mechanical training areas, Walker installed 208-V and 480-V power disconnect switches used for powering air-conditioner condenser units. In the biomedical and automation labs, Walker installed a Starline busway to feed equipment below.
Photo by Erik Kluetz
Some of the technical training programs involved donated equipment, but because they were received in the latter half of the project, the electrical contractor adopted specific power requirements to meet individual equipment specifications.
Photo by Erik Kluetz
Heat stroke was a major concern, requiring proper hydration and frequent breaks. And COVID-19 precautions shifted some work to offsite locations.
Photo by Erik Kluetz
The campus opened in June 2020 in time for the fall semester.
