Central Nine Career Center

HEAPY provided the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection design for a $4.6 million addition and expansion to the Central Nine Career Center. This 15,000 SF addition allowed for expansion to double the welding space, allowing the center to serve more students. The project also included a new multi-purpose space to act as an event space for up to 500 people.

Our team collaborated with the project team to handle challenges posed by integrating the welding equipment vendor selections into the design (e.g., welding booths, exhaust systems). In addition, our team developed creative approaches to integrate existing equipment with new systems to provide a seamless final system design. To ensure safe operations, electrical connections for the welders were universal with safety interlocks. Specialty plumbing systems included gases such as Argon, CO2/Argon Mix, and compressed air.

In the multi-purpose event space, the HVAC system was designed for flexible and adaptable use to accommodate vastly different load profiles during everyday occupancy versus special events. Two separate packaged rooftop units were used to accommodate this need, with a smaller AHU for everyday use, and a larger AHU with energy recovery and higher outdoor air percentage that can be activated during times of high occupancy for special events.