Engineering students at UNBC will now have access to a state-of-the-art research facility to create sustainable wood engineering solutions.
The lab will provide students with the ability to build and test large-scale wood structures using engineered wood products.
Photo Credit: UNBC
“By developing innovative wood products for eco-friendly and cost-efficient construction, UNBC researcher Thomas Tannert and his students are keeping B.C.’s forest sector globally competitive,” said Bruce Ralston, B.C. Minister of Jobs, Trade and Technology.
“Our investment in this research lab and equipment will help generate good jobs in B.C., and modernize advanced tall wood construction methods for Canada and the world.”
Photo Credit: UNBC
The 1,070 square-metre lab will include a wood conditioning and processing room and an office and classroom space.
The province has contributed $3.4 million towards the $5.3 million project.
The Government of Canada’s Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund provided the additional $1.9 million.
Photo Credit: UNBC
"Like the Wood Innovation and Design Centre before it, the Wood Innovation Research Lab is a remarkable addition to downtown, and really represents what's new and exciting in Prince George,” said Lyn Hall, mayor of the City of Prince George.
“Beyond that, and perhaps even more importantly, the work that goes on inside of this new facility will attract students to our community, add to our local knowledge in forest products and help to realize our economic development aspirations with regards to innovation in forest products."
