Center for Advanced Engineering and Research
The Center for Advanced Engineering and Research (CAER) provides a central point for applied research, product development, commercialization, and professional training, in collaboration with local companies, research universities, federal laboratories, and other partners. The Center for Safe and Secure Nuclear Energy, one of the four research areas, features a fully configurable next-generation nuclear power plant control room simulator that will provide invaluable technical input for regulatory guidance in such areas as control room design, digital technologies, and human performance measures. Another key area of nuclear focus located in the CAER is the Babcock & Wilcox Company (B&W) mPower™ Integrated System Test facility.
Wiley|Wilson was responsible for full service A-E design as well as construction contract administration for Center for Advanced Engineering and Research. Highlights of the CAER facility include research/laboratory modules, classrooms, exhibit space, conference rooms, multi-purpose/banquet space, adaptable high-bay areas, and provisions for future expansion.
As part of the LEED for new construction process, Wiley|Wilson modeled the building’s energy consumption and achieved four LEED credits for energy reduction. During the first two months of operation during the summer of 2011, the building has operated within 4% of the modeled energy use.