(Lakeland, Fla., Nov. 25, 2025) – Florida Polytechnic University celebrated a major milestone with the debut of its 40,000-SF Gary C. Wendt Engineering Building on Tuesday, Nov. 18. The $15-million facility, designed by DLR Group in partnership with Charles Perry Partners, Inc., adds state-of-the-art laboratory space and equipment designed to elevate student learning, fuel innovation, and solidify the University’s role as an economic driver for the state of Florida.

The GCW features advanced research and development labs for multiple engineering disciplines, an autonomous technology bay, faculty offices, a large conference room and collaborative workspaces. Created with flexibility and long-term adaptability in mind, the building’s high ceilings, roll-up bay doors and industrial-grade infrastructure allow for large-scale projects and evolving academic needs.

“The Gary C. Wendt Engineering Building stands as a powerful symbol of innovation, collaboration and hands-on learning,” said Dr. Devin Stephenson, Florida Poly’s president. “It will provide students and faculty with the tools to tackle complex challenges, explore emerging technologies and strengthen industry collaboration – allowing us to dream bigger, think bolder and achieve more than ever before.”

The building is named in honor of former Florida Poly Trustee and long-time supporter, Gary C. Wendt, whose leadership and generosity have greatly advanced the University’s mission. In 2022, the former chairman and CEO of GE Capital made a generous $2 million contribution to the University.

“This building represents progress, not just for our university, but for the entire state of Florida,” said Beth Kigel, chair of Florida Poly’s Board of Trustees. “It reflects our bold-thinking approach to high-tech education and our commitment to fueling the state’s economy. Within those walls, future engineers will design, build and innovate in ways that shape industries and advance Florida’s position as a leader in technology and innovation.”

The GCW joins Florida Poly as a third academic facility and supports the university’s goal to increase enrollment to 3,000 students by 2030.

In partnership with DLR Group, CPPI served as the project’s design-build and construction management firm.

“CPPI views this project as a remarkable opportunity to be part of the design-build team advancing technology and setting a strong foundation for the continued growth of Florida Polytechnic University,” said John Weaver, CPPI vice president and regional manager. “Our team has a deep understanding of the University’s evolving needs and the critical resources required to support its mission of innovation and excellence.”

DLR Group provided architecture and interiors with partner consultants TLC Engineering for Architecture (MEP Engineering), BBM Structural (Structural Engineering), and VHB (Civil Engineering & Landscape Architecture).

“By integrating a modular design with exposed building systems, we have created a facility that accelerates applied research needs and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration,” said DLR Group Principal and Architect Arlenne Gil, AIA, NOMA. “This flexible environment sets the stage for measurable innovation and meaningful student impact across the STEM disciplines.”

Learn more about how this project is expanding research and development opportunities for students in Florida.