RK Mechanical and JE Dunn Construction (JE Dunn) have partnered on the mechanical construction of the University of Wyoming’s new residential campus expansion, delivering more than 325,000 square feet of cutting-edge living and dining space across two buildings.
The North Building spans nearly 190,000 square feet and features 218 residence rooms and a two-story dining hall with state-of-the-art mechanical support systems. The South Building includes 285 student units across 136,500 square feet of space, solely dedicated to student living.
This project demanded innovation from day one. RK Mechanical has installed seven complex systems that intricately connect both structures. Unique to this job, RK tied into the University’s underground network with a three-stage hydronic piping system—an uncommon but critical solution to efficiently deliver heating and cooling across campus.
Pushing the Limits of Installation and Teamwork
Prefabricated mechanical components weighing between 8,000 to 13,000 pounds each were expertly maneuvered through tight vertical shafts using skilled riggers and radio communication. Massive ducts measuring 120 by 48 feet—large enough to walk through—were installed to manage the tremendous air handling demands.
The RK team showcased its flexibility by adapting to challenges such as student pedestrian hazards and Wyoming’s relentless winds, which pose a safety risk and can cause delays due to crane shutdowns. On-site collaboration was also crucial: plumbers, sheet metal workers and pipefitters worked side-by-side, often crossing trades to complete tasks together. Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) modeling and prefabrication practices greatly enhanced installation speed and precision.
Watch Our Teams Work
See us in action on this project by watching the short video below!
Gold Standard in Safety and Partnership
RK’s commitment to safety extends beyond industry norms, with a second “stretch-and-flex” session each day during lunch to address immediate job site needs. RK’s proactive, award-winning culture and teamwork have been recognized with the 2024 Safety Excellence Award from JE Dunn, the project’s General Contractor—a true honor that cements RK Mechanical’s and JE Dunn’s partnership as the gold standard for safety, flexibility and excellence.
Throughout this project, JE Dunn has been an exceptional partner, working closely with RK Mechanical to solve complex sequencing challenges and maintain a united front in navigating shifting timelines, weather-related disruptions and intricate site logistics. From daily coordination to long-term planning, our collaboration with JE Dunn has been marked by transparency, mutual respect and a shared commitment to delivering a safe, high-quality result for the University of Wyoming.
RK Mechanical is honored to help shape the future of the University of Wyoming and proud to set a higher standard for what’s possible in mechanical construction.
Interested in learning more? Visit RK Mechanical or contact us today!
Don’t forget to check out the capabilities of our exceptional partner, JE Dunn.