Brawley, located in California’s vast Imperial Valley, is experiencing transformation as its proximity to the Salton Sea drives new investment in the region. Beneath the Salton Sea sits a geothermal hotspot, pumping hot brine to the surface and generating geothermal energy. This brine contains a high concentration of lithium, an important component of battery production. And Brawley may be the largest source of lithium in the world, giving the area a new nickname: Lithium Valley.
The Imperial Valley is leveraging the discovery of geothermal power capabilities and a large stockpile of lithium to expand opportunities for science and technology education. Sundt’s completion of the state-of-the-art San Diego State University (SDSU) Imperial Valley Sciences and Engineering Laboratories marks a significant step in the university’s commitment to addressing current and future demands in geothermal energy and lithium – delivering skilled, highly educated professionals who are ready to lead the workforce.
“This project was chartered with a clear mission: open for the Fall 2025 semester with a timely and efficient closeout,” said Brandon Drury, project manager at Sundt. “Our design-build team made strategic decisions throughout construction to protect the schedule and ensure success by identifying acceleration opportunities—all while executing Sundt’s quality standards,” said Drury.
The scope of the project included a standalone laboratory, and research building with teaching labs, offices and research spaces. Some of the specialty features included wet labs — custom laboratories for scientists and researchers conducting experiments involving chemicals or biological matter. With laboratories comprising 70% of the facility, the building offers students a dynamic space for hands-on learning.
“The entire Sundt team including Greg Rheinschild, Marc Gariepy, Mike Casey, Chris Sullivan, Max Graeber, Nick Orman, Soula Wynne, Casey Beck, Ferdinand Benito, Ryan Larsen and Daniel Sahagun—deserves individual recognition for taking ownership and making a daily commitment to project success. SDSU was especially excited to welcome Sundt General Superintendent Nate Larsen, following his leadership on the SDSU South Campus Plaza in 2017; he helped instill confidence and reinforce trust in execution during the final phases.” said Drury.
There’s no better test of a builder’s work than getting a repeat client for another major project. This building marks the fifth project Sundt has completed for SDSU.
“Relentless execution was the mindset across the team from the start of construction through turnover. It feels good to bring a project like this across the finish line, and we look forward to the lasting impact it has on the Imperial Valley!” said Drury.
The project reached Certificate of Occupancy a few days early and turned over to SDSU August 1. The ribbon cutting was held on August 4, just in time for the fall semester.
Learn more about Sundt’s innovative work on campuses in California.
