HOUGHTON — Michigan Technological University has received a $5 million outright grant — with the potential for a $2 million matching grant — from the Herbert H. and Grace A. (HHGA) Dow Foundation for renovations to the Chemical Sciences and Engineering Building (Chem Sci).

The four-year grant supports Michigan Tech’s plans to increase capacity to design, develop and deliver solutions for rural health and human-centered engineering by creating a state-of-the-art health education and research center.

Funding from the HHGA Dow Foundation will enable Michigan Tech to complete renovation of Chem Sci, a facility that will be integral to the new center.

Upgrades will include new teaching labs, public and collaborative spaces, and classrooms, as well as significant improvements to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system that improve air quality while generating substantial energy savings.

“The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation continues to see the potential in our students and is helping to advance Michigan Tech as a premier national university positioned to lead the nation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” said Rick Koubek, University president. “This investment in Michigan Tech signifies an important milestone in the modernization of facilities across campus. And, thanks to their support, Michigan Tech students will have access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology that best prepares them for the workforce of the future.”

“The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation is pleased to continue our partnership with Michigan Technological University by providing support for infrastructure projects that reinforce Michigan Tech’s excellence in education and research.

Trustees are honored to support investment in organizations that develop future leaders,” said Ruth Alden Doan, president and trustee of the HHGA Dow Foundation.

Since its construction in 1968, Chem Sci has supported Michigan Tech in educating engineering students and served as a hub for students from many disciplines, most of whom take chemistry during their studies.

After five decades of service, Chem Sci is in need of modernization, as some labs have not seen substantial upgrades since construction.

“Renovations to the Chem Sci building will transform education for Michigan Tech students, and we are so very grateful to The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation for their support,” said Bill Roberts, Michigan Tech’s vice president for advancement and alumni engagement. “Demand for Tech graduates is consistently high, as industries in Michigan experience labor shortfalls in today’s market — shortfalls that are seen throughout the country. To meet this demand, Michigan Tech is focused on growing its student population to approximately 10,000 by 2035. Upgrading these facilities and laboratories will attract future students and talented faculty to support Michigan’s economy, and we are excited and thankful to have HHGA as a partner in these efforts.”