Missouri Army National Guard (MOARNG) soldiers undergo intensive training in state-of-the-art facilities to conduct their critical missions.  

Olsson was ready to help design MOARNG’s latest facility, an aviation-focused military readiness center that is one of only four similar installments nationwide. 

“We’re honored to help create the readiness center to support MOARNG’s commitment to our nation’s security and safety,” said Cory Wilson, Olsson’s project manager. “Our team used materials and principles that should ensure the center’s longevity for at least fifty years.”

The 44,900-square-foot facility opened in 2023 and houses a multistate regional aviation support unit: the 1107th Theater Aviation Sustainment Maintenance Group (TASMG). The center offers crucial maintenance support and hosts ample space for training, administrative offices, storage, and arms vaults.  

The team used advanced engineering sustainability techniques and has applied for a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. This accolade recognizes sustainable, cost-saving, and highly efficient infrastructure. Designers also made sure the facility was accessible, meeting the latest edition of the uniform facilities criteria (UFC) standards.  

The new readiness center includes Olsson-designed runway aprons, walkways, ample parking, and a stormwater control system. Olsson worked closely with agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration and the adjacent Springfield-Branson Airport for seamless coordination. 

Stringent safety and security guidelines – like antiterrorism and force protection (ATFP) measures – are essential to the readiness center. Olsson also integrated robust fire detection and suppression security systems; heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC); and electrical designs. 

Guardsmen have already applied aviation training for essential missions, including search-and-rescue operations during floods and tornado damage assessments. 

“Given the critical role of aviation assets in military operations, the logistics facility plays a vital role in supporting the National Guard’s aviation readiness,” said John Bertino, technical leader on Olsson’s Federal team. “It allows guardsmen to prepare for a diverse array of missions and safeguard our nation.” 

Successful collaboration led the project to be completed under budget, even amid COVID-19 pandemic shortages and delays. Olsson provided mechanical/electrical, civil, and structural engineering; landscape architecture; and field services.

“Great partnerships, both internal and external, allowed us to successfully and efficiently execute the project and provide top-notch client service,” Cory said. “We’re proud to have been a part of creating an essential facility that will support our communities now and into the future.”