Illinois State leaders joined by Gov. Pritzker in dedication ceremony of new College of Engineering

New College of Engineering facility supports the next generation of Illinois' engineering students

Governor JB Pritzker joined Illinois State University (ISU) in officially opening the doors to the new home for their College of Engineering, Campus East. The 392,000 square foot, 28-acre facility provides the space and state-of-the-art equipment needed to support a growing academic program and prepare Illinois' next generation of engineers, including up to 700 new students. ​ ​

"Illinois has always been a state where people design, build, and innovate - it is incumbent on us in state government to harness that spirit and to invest in it," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Higher education and workforce development are fundamental to that mission, which is why we've expanded support for public universities while making major investments in the innovation economy. The new Illinois State College of Engineering is a sterling example of that vision in action."

"This exciting investment in engineering is just the beginning of a vibrant hub for collaboration, research, and experiential learning across disciplines," said Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule. "The acquisition of Campus East was an incredibly significant financial decision. In the long run, it saves Illinois State at least $150 million in future construction costs needed to support growth in the College of Engineering. The facility opens incredible opportunities for growth, innovation, and enriching student experiences, while strengthening partnerships that elevate our community and the entire state." ​

Following a decade of planning and approval by the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IHBE), the College of Engineering welcomed its first cohort of 168 students in fall 2025 and its second class of over 140 new students in fall 2026. With the opening of Campus East, the College expands their initial engineering program and provides students with opportunities for hands-on learning, research, innovation, and collaboration.

The opening of Campus East comes at a critical time for Illinois, as demand for engineering talent across infrastructure, transportation, energy, technology, and advanced manufacturing industries soars. Investing in education not only prepares Illinois' youth for future career success but also provides industries with the skilled workforce needed to thrive - making Illinois' economy more competitive. ​ ​

Strengthening higher education is a central priority in Illinois, with nearly half of all in-state college students at public universities paying zero dollars in tuition and fees, and half of in-state college students paying 25% or less for tuition and fees. With the opening of Campus East, Illinois State is furthering this priority: creating new opportunities for student growth and enrichment, building critical pathways from education to employment, and solidifying the State of Illinois as leader in innovation.

"The opening of Illinois State University's School of Engineering is an exciting investment in our students and the future of our workforce," said Senate Assistant Majority Leader Dave Koehler. "Expanding opportunities to pursue engineering at ISU will help grow the talent pipeline so more students call central Illinois home."

"I'm so proud to represent a district that's so accomplished in higher education and innovation, and the opening of the ISU School of Engineering is a signal that we'll continue to lead in these fields," said State Representative Sharon Chung. "The School of Engineering will create a new, high-quality educational pathway for workforce-centered education that will benefit the entire state of Illinois."

The redesigned Campus East features state-of-the-art facilities that equip students with critical tools for success - including computer and circuit labs, a collaborative research space, a wood and metal shop, a makerspace with 3D printers, and a student success center. A Connect Transit bus also operates every 20 minutes between the campuses, easing travel times and enhancing accessibility for students. ​

The Campus East facility also integrates environmentally conscious, energy efficient solutions into its operation. A solar energy system installation, set to be completed in the summer of 2027, will serve as a living learning lab for engineering students to explore renewable energy. The solar array is also expected to provide approximately 85 percent of the energy needs for the entire Campus East property - serving to both educate on sustainable engineering and offset current electrical consumption. ​

"Our goal is to build an engineering program that is deeply connected to the needs of our students, our industry partners, and the state," said Tom Keyser, founding Dean of the College of Engineering. "Our faculty bring tremendous expertise and a commitment to hands-on learning, while our industry advisory board gives us an invaluable connection to employers and the skills they need. Together, these resources position our students to graduate ready to contribute from day one, with many already participating in valuable internships following their freshman year."