Oklahoma State University and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) are expanding their 50-year partnership with the new Gary Ridley Construction Residency and Training Center, a $10 million facility set to begin construction this winter on OSU’s campus.Named for former Oklahoma Secretary of Transportation Gary Ridley, the center will provide hands-on learning opportunities for OSU engineering students and serve as a hub for collaboration with ODOT engineers. The facility will also house the Highway Construction Materials Technician Certification Program, previously located at the Bert Cooper Structures and Materials Lab.“This one-of-a-kind facility will be an asset to Oklahoma, our private sector partners and OSU students for years to come,” said Tim Gatz, ODOT executive director. “It honors Secretary Ridley’s legacy and strengthens our long-standing partnership with OSU.”The center will enhance ODOT’s campus presence and give students real-world experience in transportation infrastructure.
