RDK Engineers (RDK) joins the Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA) in celebration of the new $23 million American Bureau of Shipping Information Commons. At the official opening ceremony, even an overcast sky could not dampen the enthusiasm of the gathering crowd for the cutting-edge center, which was praised as a "living laboratory that envelops students in learning."
RDK joined forces with Perry Dean Rogers Architects, W.T. Rich Company Construction and DCAM and provided MEP/FP engineering services for the 41,741 s/f center. Many speakers at the opening ceremony praised the center's sustainable design elements, which include chilled beams, radiant floor heating, day lighting, and a low emissivity roof. The building is aiming to achieve LEED Platinum certification.
The new center is home to the academy's Ship's Bridge Simulator, which allows young cadets to practice their growing skills by steering a massive simulated ship. Principal Chris Hildreth, who spearheaded the project for RDK, was among those who got a chance to try out the simulator during a tour of the building.
"This new facility is more than just a library - it is a place that will give cadets the skills they need to follow their dreams and find success in whatever career path they choose, be it on land or sea. It's great to be part of a project that will serve students for years to come," said Hildreth.
About RDK Engineers
RDK Engineers has specialized in providing high-quality HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Tel Data, and Fire Protection engineering services for over 100 years. Today, RDK has a staff of 190 multi-disciplined engineers and administrative professionals located in Andover, Amherst, and Boston, MA, as well as Durham and Charlotte, NC. RDK delivers total building solutions to leading businesses and institutions nationwide.
About the Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Located on Cape Cod, the Massachusetts Maritime Academy has been preparing cadets for careers on land and sea for over 100 years. As one of the United State's six state maritime academies, the Massachusetts Maritime Academy challenges students to succeed by balancing a unique regimental lifestyle with a rigorous four-year academic course of study.
About Perry Dean Rogers Architects
Perry Dean Rogers Architects is a leading architecture and design firm and cultural institutional work located in Boston, MA. Higher Education clients include MIT, Harvard University, and Brown University.
About W.T. Rich Co., Inc.
Founded in 1968, W.T. Rich Co., Inc. has extensive experience across a range of industries and types of construction and specializes, in major renovation work and historic restoration.