Iowa State University has announced a $42 million commitment from alumni C.G. and Joyce A. McEwen Therkildsen ('59) in support of a new building for the Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering.

The facility will house the department and provide technologically enhanced learning and research laboratory spaces where industrial engineering students can gain the knowledge to design the innovative, nimble, and intelligent processes needed across all industrial sectors. As currently envisioned, the estimated $50 million building will offer more than 50,000 square feet of space. In recognition of the gift, the building will be named Therkildsen Industrial Engineering Building, pending board approval.

Charles George "Turk" Therkildsen, an industrial engineering alumnus, serves as CEO and board chair of Industrial Hard Chrome, while Joyce Arlene McEwen Therkildsen, who double-majored in zoology and physical education, works as a corporate secretary.

"We feel strongly about investing in the future of industrial engineering at Iowa State," said C.G. Therkildsen. "Joyce and I continue to be impressed with the quality of an Iowa State industrial engineering education, and the visionary leadership demonstrated by the department and university. Providing a state-of-the-art facility is one of the best ways to ensure the department is able to evolve and expand as the professional field advances."