MSU Ag Innovation Hub

MSU Agricultural Innovation Hub: A Hands-On Learning Facility for Future Farmers

Springfield, MO

Building the Future of Agricultural Education at Missouri State University
The Missouri State University (MSU) Agricultural Innovation Hub is a state-of-the-art learning facility designed to provide students with hands-on experience in farm management, mechanics, metalwork, and woodworking. This 8,805-square-foot, $3.2 million facility serves as a hub for practical agricultural education, preparing students for careers in modern farming.

Project Overview
Constructed using a Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB) system, the facility includes:
• Office space and classrooms for agricultural instruction.
• A fully-equipped shop workspace for mechanics, metal, and woodwork training.
• A 20′ x 60′ x 10′ stained cedar-fenced covered storage area, seamlessly attached to the building.

Exterior & Interior Features:
The exterior is clad in 2 ½-inch Kingspan insulated metal wall panels for durability and energy efficiency. Inside, the facility boasts sealed concrete floors, gypsum walls, flush wood doors, vinyl base, and acoustical ceilings in common areas. The shop area features a metal soffit panel ceiling and stained fire-rated plywood walls, designed for durability and safety.

Overcoming Challenges & Smart Solutions
• Material Delays: Toilet partitions were delayed due to flooding in North Carolina, where the manufacturer was located. Crossland quickly sourced an alternative material, obtaining owner approval and reducing the delay to just three weeks.
• Flooring Adjustments: The original sealed concrete floors did not meet the owner’s expectations, so Crossland took the initiative to polish the concrete to a 200-resin finish, providing a more uniform and visually appealing result.

Self-Performed Work & Execution
Crossland self-performed key aspects of the project, including:
• PEMB erection, ensuring precise installation of the structure.
• Finish carpentry, contributing to the high-quality interior craftsmanship.

A Strong Partnership & Future Collaboration
Crossland developed a strong working relationship with Missouri State University (MSU), which has led to future projects, including the upcoming MSU-Ann Kampeter renovation. The success of this facility demonstrates Crossland’s ability to deliver innovative, high-quality educational spaces that meet the needs of both students and educators.

A Rewarding Project for Agricultural Education
The MSU Agricultural Innovation Hub is a transformative space that will serve future generations of agricultural students. By overcoming challenges, adapting to changes, and ensuring high-quality execution, Crossland delivered a modern, functional learning environment that supports hands-on agricultural education.

Project Facts

Industry Sector: Educational
Cost: $3,071,000
Size: 8,000
Delivery Method: Design-Bid-Build / Hard Bid
Self-Perform: Prefab Systems, Finish Carpentry, Steel Erection, Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB)
Owner: Missouri State University
Architect: N Form Architecture