Owen-Ames-Kimball (O-A-K) has completed Phase II renovations of the Cohen Student Union at Florida Gulf Coast University. The new updates deliver a revitalized, student-centered space designed to foster connection, collaboration, and campus engagement, while finishing the project one month ahead of schedule.

Originally constructed by O-A-K more than 20 years ago, the Cohen Student Union holds long-standing significance for the firm. FGCU’s decision to partner once again with O-A-K for this next phase reflects the strength of that relationship and confidence in the firm’s ability to deliver complex renovations in an active campus environment. The project was designed by RG Architects.

Phase II renovations focused on enhancing gathering and meeting spaces throughout the facility. A major component of the project included enclosing the former outdoor atrium located between Einstein Bros. Bagels and the food court, transforming it into a bright, modern interior entry space. Visitors are now welcomed by a new seating area and a relocated information booth that improves functionality and flow.

The renovated interior features high ceilings, expansive windows, circular pendant lighting, and a long counter with seating. A newly constructed staircase connects the first and second floors, improving circulation and visibility within the student union.

The second floor now includes three conference-style rooms that provide collaborative meeting space for students and student organizations, along with a new seating area overlooking the first floor.

Construction was completed in 11 months, ahead of the original 12-month schedule, despite the need to coordinate work around weekly campus events. O-A-K credits this success to close collaboration with FGCU’s Facilities and Events teams, whose partnership helped maintain steady progress throughout the project.

“We are proud to return to the Cohen Student Union and deliver updates that support FGCU’s students and campus life,” said Jim Hopper, Florida Division President of Owen-Ames-Kimball. “Completing this renovation ahead of schedule speaks to the strength of our partnership with FGCU and the dedication of our project team—many of whom have deep personal ties to the university.”

O-A-K extends special recognition to its project team, including Brian Filipek, Carlos Rapalo—both FGCU graduates—Ferrell Clark, Marco Garcia, and several FGCU interns who contributed meaningfully throughout the project.

In keeping with O-A-K’s commitment to workforce development and education, the firm hosted multiple FGCU Construction Management classes on-site during construction, providing students with firsthand exposure to an active renovation project and real-world learning experience.

O-A-K’s Florida operation is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. Learn more about O-A-K at www.owen-ames-kimball.com or call (239) 561-4141.

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Take a look inside Prein&Newhof’s new water testing lab, a space designed to support advanced testing and continued innovation.

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Owen‑Ames‑Kimball (O‑A‑K) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rachael Martemucci as Director of Education Market Development, a newly established leadership role reflecting the construction management company’s continued commitment to the K12 education sector.

The creation of this position is a strategic investment in the future of O‑A‑K’s education work. As Director of Education Market Development, she will focus on strengthening client services, developing talent and unifying teams across several departments.

“This role reinforces our dedication to being a trusted partner for school districts,” said Frank Stanek, PE, President & CEO. “By investing in focused leadership for the largest market sector we serve, we are positioning O‑A‑K to continue to serve our clients well while responding to the evolving needs of K12 facilities and communities. Rachael is a collaborative leader, and we look forward to continued success with her guidance.”

With Michigan schools facing increasing demands for safe, modern, and flexible learning environments, O‑A‑K’s expanded leadership structure ensures the firm remains at the forefront of school construction changes. Martemucci’s work will support not only market leadership, but also sustainable growth, innovation, and long-term client success.

Martemucci came to O‑A‑K in 2010 and has been the firm’s Director of Marketing for over a decade. She has worked with over 20 local school districts and brings a wealth of knowledge in pre-bond operations and communication strategy.

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Owen-Ames-Kimball (O-A-K) has started construction on the new Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Fort Collins Service Center. This project will bring together regional CPW administration and operations into one integrated campus.

The project includes the construction of 11 buildings totaling approximately 74,500 square feet, along with on-site improvements across roughly 28 acres. The heart of the campus will be a new one-story administration building that will be the primary location for daily coordination and interaction with the public. The administration building will include office space, conference rooms, a multi-function room, breakroom, restrooms, a visitor contact area, and building support spaces.

Additional buildings address CPW’s operational and field needs and will include seven pre-engineered metal buildings, an Aquatic Nuisance Species station and boat decontamination building, a chemical storage building, and a well house. Together, these facilities will provide the space required for equipment, materials, and day-to-day operations associated with CPW’s work throughout the region.

The site is designed to manage access, circulation, and security for the new campus. Site development includes grading, drainage and stormwater detention systems, a septic system, a new waterline, demolition of existing structures, new security fencing, secured entrance gates, and designated parking for visitors, employees, and CPW fleet vehicles.

By bringing these facilities together in one location, the Fort Collins Service Center provides CPW with a functional, organized campus that supports its work across northern Colorado. Through careful coordination and construction, O-A-K is delivering a project that will serve CPW’s needs now and into the future.