C.W. Driver Celebrates the Completion of MiraCosta College’s New $42.5M Chemistry and Biotechnology Building  

State-of-the-art Facility Enhances STEM Education and Workforce Development in Biotechnology and Chemistry. 

OCEANSIDE, Calif. – C.W. Driver Companies, a premier California builder specializing in educational facilities, has successfully completed construction of MiraCosta College’s new Chemistry and Biotechnology Building. The $42.5 million, 20,630-square-foot facility serves as a cornerstone for the college’s expanding Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs, providing students with cutting-edge resources to prepare for high-demand careers in biotechnology and chemistry. 

“We are proud to have collaborated with MiraCosta College on delivering this transformative facility,” said Andy Feth, project executive at C.W. Driver. “Designed with sustainability, innovation, and student success in mind, this building represents our ongoing commitment to creating high-quality, future-ready educational spaces.” 

The Chemistry and Biotechnology Building was designed to foster an advanced learning environment while integrating sustainable building practices. A large roof structure creates shaded outdoor gathering areas that seamlessly connect with the STEM quad, while covered porches and screened study spaces encourage student collaboration beyond the classroom. The landscaping incorporates drought-tolerant and native plant species, contributing to a park-like setting that harmonizes with the campus environment. 

Inside, the facility utilizes eco-friendly materials, high-efficiency fixtures, and sustainable finishes that complement both the existing campus and the surrounding ecosystem. Expansive windows and intuitive circulation routes maximize accessibility and enhance the dynamic, interactive learning atmosphere. Designed to meet LEED Silver certification standards, the building reflects C.W. Driver’s dedication to sustainable construction and environmentally responsible educational facilities. 

The new facility is instrumental in supporting MiraCosta College’s Biomanufacturing baccalaureate degree program, which has been preparing students for careers in the biotechnology and biomanufacturing industries since 2017. The building’s modern laboratories and instructional spaces are designed to align with industry needs, enhancing workforce readiness and equipping students with practical skills for high-growth STEM fields. 

“This is a significant milestone for MiraCosta College as we officially open the doors to the new Chemistry and Biotechnology Building,” said Joe Webber, project manager, MiraCosta College. “The world is facing challenges that will require innovative solutions, and STEM education will play a vital role in shaping the future. This facility provides our students and faculty with the tools, technology, and resources they need to explore, innovate, and make meaningful contributions to these fields.” 

The Chemistry and Biotechnology Building was delivered via Design-Build, the team was led by C.W. Driver and HED Architects. Additional project partners included KTUA as the landscape architect, NV5 as the civil engineer, Michael Wall Engineering for electrical engineering, M.A. Engineers for mechanical and plumbing engineering, and Miyamoto International as the structural engineer. Atlas served as the inspector of record, while Kitchell provided program and construction management. 

Other notable higher education projects by C.W. Driver Companies include the Mt. San Jacinto CCD – Menifee Campus, STEM Building, San Jacinto Campus, STEM Science & Technology Building, and Temecula Valley Campus;  Riverside CCD – Riverside City College, Interdisciplinary Complex and Ben Clark Public Safety Training & Education Center; Orange Coast College’s Chemistry Building, Language Arts and Social Science Building, Kinesiology and Athletics Complex and Student Union Complex; CSU Dominguez Hills – Center for Science & Innovation and Innovation & Instruction Building, Santa Clarita CCD – College of the Canyons, Boykin Hall Modernization, CSU San Bernardino – Coyote Village and Coyote Commons, UC Santa Barbara Interactive Learning Pavilion, Pomona-Pitzer’s Rains Athletic Center, Long Beach City College – Multi-Disciplinary Facility Replacement, San Diego CCD – Mesa College’s Fine Arts Building, Chapman University’s Keck Center for Science and Engineering, Cal Poly Pomona’s Student Services Building, Vanguard University’s Waugh Student Center, and the recent triple groundbreaking at CSU Dominguez Hills for the Student Housing & Dining Commons, Health, Wellness, and Recreation Center, and Switchyard and Infrastructure Upgrade. 

About C.W. Driver Companies 

C.W. Driver Companies is a premier builder serving California since 1919. In 2019, the historic company proudly celebrated its 100-year anniversary. As a leader in general contracting and construction management services, C.W. Driver Companies are on the cutting edge across a broad spectrum of industries, including education, commercial/office, technology, healthcare/biomedical, mixed-use, assisted living, entertainment, retail, industrial and civic. Ranked in Engineering News Record’s Top 150 General Contractors and Top 100 Construction Managers, C.W. Driver Companies has the ability to build a variety of projects, from large tenant improvements to small renovations and specialized projects through its affiliates Driver SPG and Good & Roberts. C.W. Driver Companies has offices located in Los Angeles, Rancho Cucamonga, Anaheim, San Diego and Carlsbad. For more information, please visit www.cwdriver.com. Follow C.W. Driver Companies on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.