UFV has contracted Stantec to assist with planning the UFV Digital Hub. Stantec is a global engineering and professional services company specializing in feasibility, design, and project management. The Digital Hub will be a high-tech facility located on the Abbotsford campus and will serve as a technologically advanced learning centre for students, industry, and the Fraser Valley community.

The new facility will have high-speed web access, flexible power grids, digital communication platforms, leading-edge audio-visual equipment, and industry-standard digital tools that will form the foundation of student-centred learning.

The Hub will also house flexible work spaces including central common areas for larger classes, and group project zones for small teams. Digital media and other high-tech labs will combine with space for performance-based learning in the new centre.

The Hub will become an innovators’ gathering place and will help retain and develop skilled people while attracting tech-sector talent to the Fraser Valley. It will provide a unique and collaborative environment encouraging experiential learning and the development of in-demand skills for students in the technology field in BC and beyond.

This project is well aligned with UFV’s strategic goals and with the BC government’s BCTECH Strategy, and will provide students from a wide variety of disciplines the opportunity to gain cutting-edge digital experience and knowledge.

Stantec was selected through a competitive bid process. Their work will include the development of a comprehensive plan that precisely and clearly defines the details of the Digital Hub. The scope of Stantec’s work will include conceptual design, space allocation, technical requirements, external partnerships, and financial feasibility.

This early work will identify critical conditions for success, articulate how UFV’s academic goals will be achieved, and provide clear direction for fundraising and stakeholder engagement efforts.

The resulting business case will inform the next phase of development for the Digital Hub capital project.

Further updates will be provided as planning progresses and more information on the Digital Hub can be found in the UFV 2016 capital plan.