TCC Center for Innovative Learning and Engagement

As general contractor/construction manager (GC/CM), Korsmo Construction is building the new Center for Innovative Learning and Engagement building at Tacoma Community College to accommodate enrollment growth and create a multidisciplinary hub with technology-rich, team-based learning environments.

The new multi-story building will house instructional space for the college’s Business, Humanities, and Social Sciences programs, and include multimedia enriched laboratories for classroom and open lab use, instructional centers, and hands-on learning space.

The high-performance building includes an extensive photovoltaic solar array system and is on track to achieve LEED Gold certification. The project also meets Salmon Safe and Bee Campus USA environmental standards.

“The CILE project at TCC was more than just a building, it was a strategic investment in the future of teaching and learning. Designed as a multi-use academic facility to foster collaboration, innovation, and student engagement, the CILE reflects the evolution of how we support learners in and beyond the classroom. Bringing this vision to life required a construction partner who could understand the importance of academic spaces and the operational realities of a live college campus. Korsmo proved to be exactly that partner.

From the initial planning stages through construction and final delivery, Korsmo’s team consistently demonstrated professionalism, attention to detail, and a proactive, collaborative approach. They worked closely with our campus leadership, architects, and end users to ensure the facility aligned with our academic goals and institutional mission. Their communication was clear and consistent, and they brought both flexibility and expertise to navigating challenges as they emerged.

A specific detail that still stands out to our community is the condition of the construction site itself. One of my senior team members, who has been involved in numerous public college construction projects, noted that Korsmo’s site was one of the cleanest they had ever encountered. This wasn’t just a matter of appearance—it was an indication of the company’s strong operational culture and respect for the campus environment in which they were working.

In addition to delivering a high-quality facility, Korsmo went above and beyond by creating two internship opportunities for TCC students during the construction of the CILE. These internships provided students with real-world, hands-on experience in the construction industry, exposure that is invaluable for workforce readiness and career exploration. It was a powerful demonstration of their commitment to education, student success, and community workforce development.

Just as importantly, Korsmo is deeply embedded in the broader Tacoma community. They are not only builders, but active civic participants who support local nonprofits, education initiatives, and economic development efforts. For us at TCC, partnering with companies who share our values and invest in the communities we serve is essential, and Korsmo has been a model in that regard.”

— Ivan L. Harrell II, PhD, President, Tacoma Community College

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