On December 10, 2024, students from Ballard High School's Civil Engineering pathway stepped into their potential future as they explored the construction site of the new Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) off Brownsboro Road. This exclusive tour, facilitated by the Academies of Louisville Alliance, provided juniors with a unique opportunity to witness firsthand how their classroom concepts materialize on an impressive scale. As these aspiring engineers navigated the bustling site, they weren't merely observing construction; they were experiencing the transformation of theoretical knowledge into tangible solutions that will serve veterans for generations to come.

A Significant Advancement in Veterans' Healthcare

The new VAMC represents a major leap in veterans' healthcare, replacing the aging facility on Zorn Avenue that has served since 1952. With a budget of $930 million, this state-of-the-art hospital is set to redefine medical care for those who have served our nation. Upon completion, the facility will feature 104 beds across 1 million square feet, nestled on 34 acres of land.

The project is currently 65% complete, with key milestones including groundbreaking in November 2021 and a planned completion date set for April 2026. The anticipated first patient admission is expected in 2027 or 2028.

Insights from Industry Experts

Terry Durham, P.E., CCM, coordinated the site visit and led the presentation, offering students a comprehensive overview of the project's engineering marvels. The first hour was dedicated to an in-depth presentation that highlighted the project's scope, timeline, and engineering challenges. Students learned about the impressive infrastructure being developed, including an advanced HVAC system designed to meet modern healthcare needs.

Guided by seasoned construction managers Steve Smith and Carl Lindsay, students explored various aspects of the construction process. They gained practical insights into safety protocols and engineering applications while visiting critical areas like the electrical and HVAC interiors.

“This has been a really cool experience. I recognized a lot of the concepts in the presentation, like heat retention”

— JJ, Ballard Engineering Student

Student Experiences and Testimonials

Student testimonials reflected their excitement and engagement. JJ remarked, "This has been a really cool experience. I recognized a lot of the concepts in the presentation, like heat retention," while Hiren noted that it was his first time at such a large construction site, making the experience all the more impactful. Hiren has designed a house in Revit, and this site visit brought the details on the screen into 3D.

Kellysue Hornsby, Safety Specialist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), shared her passion for construction and encouraged more women to enter the field. Her enthusiasm resonated with students, highlighting the diverse opportunities within engineering and construction.

Inspiration for Future Engineers

As the tour wrapped up, students reflected on the valuable insights they had gained. Xavier shared his appreciation for the experience, saying, "Not every student gets an opportunity like this, and I’m really thankful for it."

Tim Oltman, the engineering instructor who accompanied the group, expressed his pride in his students' achievements within Ballard's outstanding engineering program. He highlighted how this tour allowed students to connect classroom concepts with real-world applications. Carl, one of the construction managers, offered practical career advice that resonated with the students: "Pick a profession you enjoy because you will do it for a long time." His words underscored the importance of passion in choosing a career path.

A Beacon of Hope

The new VA Hospital, embodying the motto "healing with honor," serves as a vital resource for veterans and an inspiring example of engineering in healthcare. As construction continues, these Ballard High School students carry with them valuable knowledge and motivation to build a better tomorrow.