January 4, 2023 – Lakewood, CO – Encore Electric gathered with GE Johnson and project trade partners on December 22, 2023 to celebrate the topping out ceremony of the United States Air Force Academy Falcon Stadium expansion project.
“The morning was crisp, the view was breathtaking, and the snowflakes were so big you could almost count them as they fell. Watching the iconic last beam be set into place at the Air Force Academy Falcon Stadium gave those same patriotic goosebumps you get when you hear the national anthem being played,” says Sam Hamilton, Encore Electric director of prefabrication. “This project gives Falcon Stadium the ability to host more events for the community and continue in its development of the future leaders of our country, it was an honor to be a part of the ceremony.”
The Falcon Stadium expansion spans 124,000 square feet. Once complete, it will add abundant space for alumni, cadets, and visitors to enjoy year-round. The stadium is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance its reputation as a world-class destination and its design showcases the stunning mountainous landscape and blue skies while maintaining a consistent mid-century modern design found throughout the campus. Adding to the awe-inspiring, majestic atmosphere is the sight and sound of planes flying overhead, echoing throughout the stadium.
Encore Electric is proud to provide all power and distribution including sports lighting, emergency and essential power, fire alarm, and special systems raceway including tele/data, access control, CCTV, and AV for this project. There are several unique and challenging aspects to the revamped Falcon Stadium, which is a two-story addition. The first floor includes kitchens, concessions, restrooms, and office space and the second floor features the VIP club level with luxury seating boxes, two bars, buffets, and a dining area. In addition, Encore Electric earned the contract to upgrade the old stadium lighting system to a new Musco DMX system, which will begin at the same time the East Club is built.
“This project has provided a lot of opportunity for us to use Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) throughout all phases and to get creative with prefabrication from basic time-saving elements like putting caps on wire drops going into the roof to more complex items for underground work,” says Jason Lucky, Encore Electric project superintendent. “It’s really cool that many of the team who’ve worked so hard at prefab were able to come out for the topping out ceremony to see how their hard work is helping pull the project together.”
“The collaborative team efforts that we have experienced with the entire Encore Electric team have made them a true partner on this challenging project. The Encore team continues to advance the project and show their true partnership to ensure the overall contract’s success!”, says Joe Opyd, GE Johnson senior project manager.