Breaking Ground at LA Pierce College: A New Era Begins with the Academic West Building

Spanning 30,000 SF, the Academic West Building is set to become a dynamic hub for education, creativity, and collaboration.

Pankow Builders is proud to announce the official groundbreaking of the Academic West Building at Los Angeles Pierce College, in partnership with NAC Architecture. This moment marks the beginning of a transformative journey—one that blends inspired design, advanced learning environments, and a commitment to student success.

A Vision Rooted in Purpose

Spanning 30,000 SF, the Academic West Building is set to become a dynamic hub for education, creativity, and collaboration. The design draws from Mediterranean architectural influences, blending beautifully with the existing campus environment while offering modern, future-ready spaces.

More than just a building, Academic West is a purpose-driven space that will house:

  • Flexible classrooms and labs to support diverse academic programs

  • An art gallery to celebrate student creativity and showcase visual arts

  • A media production soundstage for hands-on learning in film and digital content creation

  • A fully functional radio station, giving students the tools and platform to explore broadcast and media communication

This project is more than bricks and mortar—it’s about empowering students with the tools, technology, and spaces they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.

A Collaborative Start

The successful launch of construction is the result of close Design-Build partnership between Pankow Builders, NAC Architecture, and the campus community. Together, we are aligning construction excellence with educational vision, ensuring the final product meets the highest standards of quality, sustainability, and functionality.

Looking Ahead

As we break ground and begin this exciting new chapter, we’re filled with anticipation for what’s to come. From concept to construction, we are committed to bringing this vision to life with care, creativity, and integrity.

Follow along for updates as we share key milestones and behind-the-scenes insights throughout the construction journey of Academic West.


About Pankow Builders

Pankow Builders is pleased to celebrate 60 years as an industry leader. Pankow has benefited clients through creative problem-solving, engineering expertise, and construction innovation. Pioneers of Design-Build and Integrated Project Delivery, we provide Design-Build, Design-Assist, general contracting, and tenant improvement services and specialize in complex projects and work in occupied facilities. We apply new construction tools, processes, and technologies, such as BIM Planning and Execution, and Virtual Design and Construction, Lean Delivery, and Alternative Energy Solutions – delivering a complete range of high-quality construction services to clients in the office, aviation, retail, hospitality, residential, healthcare, education, tenant improvement, and mixed-use market sectors. Founded in 1963, Pankow has 60 years of continuous presence in California in Los Angeles, Pasadena, Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose.


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