Project Manhattan Area Technical College- Advanced Technology Center
In April 2022, Scorpius Biological Services announced a $650 million planned development partnership with a private developer, the State of Kansas, and local university affiliates, which will support the construction of a new bio-defense-focused large molecule and biologics biomanufacturing facility in Manhattan, Kansas. Manhattan Area Technical College (MATC) provides the required education and training for more than 50% of the workforce. Much of this education and training takes place in this new 48,000 square foot, $13.7M facility.
The building structure is a pre-engineered metal frame which was chosen for economy and function, providing large free-span spaces for the education labs. Working this structural typology into an appropriate relationship to the existing campus was a key design consideration. The campus facing side of the building features large windows and an improved streetscape with new sidewalks, lighting, trees, and landscaping. The building is clad with white insulated metal panels providing an efficient insulation system and a clean aesthetic. The more utilitarian aspects of the building are located on the back side of the building – overhead doors for large vehicle access and layout yards.
In addition to programs related to biomanufacturing, other programs that will occupy the building include Critical Environmental Tech, Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, and Construction Tech. Building features include:
• Six standard classrooms
• Six programmable lab spaces
• BSL 2 and BSL 3 training simulators
• Labs have overhead door access
• Computer lab
• Conference room
• Flexible spaces for future programming