The field of computer science is growing at an unprecedented rate and the University of Utah is training the next generation of leaders.
On May 16, the U broke ground for the new John and Marcia Price Computing and Engineering Building where that education will take place.
University of Utah President Taylor Randall speaks at the groundbreaking on the new John and Marcia Price Computing and Engineering Building.
The new building will house the Kahlert School of Computing as well as other engineering programs, including artificial intelligence, FinTech, cybersecurity, and emerging areas. High-tech lab, classroom and office space will allow the College of Engineering to increase the number of students graduating from various programs by 500 or more a year.
“In the realm of computer science, there exists an intense, worldwide competition for talent. To attract and retain the best and brightest at the University of Utah, we must provide them with a world-class environment” said former U.S. Ambassador John Price.
It is an important development for university’s future in enrollment, research and national reputation, noted Gov. Spencer Cox. It also will be key for the future of Utah’s economy as the state’s engineering and computer science workforce has generated 238,400 full and part-time jobs since 2020 and another $19.1 billion in earnings.
Currently, the U graduates roughly 50% of all computer science graduates in the Utah System of Higher Education. That number will only increase with the new facility and the programs it will house.
“This powerful collaboration among state and industry leaders along with our dedicated alumni and friends will provide a modern, high-tech environment for the leaders and innovators of tomorrow,” said President Taylor Randall.
The new building will be located near the Warnock Engineering Building on Central Campus Drive. Utah lawmakers appropriated $118 million in state funding for the building. The rest of the building’s construction cost will be covered by private donations. Utah State Senate President J. Stuart Adams said the money is a good investment in the state’s future.
“This occasion is not just about bricks and mortar; it symbolizes our commitment to advancing education, fostering innovation, and fueling economic growth in our great state,” he said. “These investments not only drive technological advancements but also foster collaboration between academia and industry, leading to real-world solutions that benefit society as a whole.”
Price said engineering has transformed the landscape of Utah, the Intermountain region and his own journey as a businessman. “It is with this understanding and appreciation that Marcia and I have chosen to support this vital component driving our local economy,” he said.