Automated Construction and Advanced Materials Lab

Our mission is to enhance the construction industry by harnessing the power of automation and utilizing locally sourced materials to achieve unparalleled sustainability and adaptability.

We are dedicated to developing cutting-edge technologies that address the unique challenges of construction in Alaska’s extreme environments.

Importance and Relevance

Short construction season

Alaska’s short construction season demands rapid, efficient, and reliable building methods to maximize the limited time available.

High costs of importing materials

Importing construction commodities to remote Alaskan locations incurs significant costs. Our focus on using locally sourced materials helps mitigate these expenses and supports local economies.

Lack of skilled construction workers

The scarcity of skilled labor in remote and rural areas highlights the need for automation to maintain high standards of construction quality and efficiency.

Severe climate conditions

Extreme cold temperatures and permafrost present unique challenges that require robust, innovative construction techniques to ensure durability and performance.

Remote communities

Many Alaskan communities are isolated, making traditional construction methods impractical. Our lab provides ways to deliver high-quality infrastructure without the need for extensive external support.

Climate change

Increasingly severe weather patterns, including floods and erosion, along with permafrost instability due to climate change, necessitate adaptive and resilient construction approaches.

Key Focus Areas and Research Goals