OBMI Bermuda was selected as the Architect and Designers of the new state-of-the-art Career Development Centre (CDC) at Bermuda College. The OBMI team is being led by Managing Director and Senior Architect Colin Campbell, and Senior Interior Designer Vanessa Bean.
The project is the result of a $3.5 million donation by several Bermuda-based [re]insurers including Athene Life Re Ltd., a reinsurance subsidiary of Athene Holding Ltd. [Athene], Athora Holding Ltd., Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited and Catalina Holdings [Bermuda] Ltd. The four companies have also committed an additional $300,000 of funding for the Centre bringing the total donation amount to $3.8 million.
The Centre is designed to be a valuable resource to the Bermuda College students, as a place to acquire the skills to compete in the global market. Equally, the Centre will offer students the space to learn and develop their proficiencies on current business trends, such as Fintech, Cybersecurity, the Internet of Things (IoT), machine-learning activities, and more, using cutting-edge technology.
The scope of the multi-million-dollar project will include a 3,542 sq. foot addition on a portion of Hallett Hall, together with extensive updates to the existing infrastructure and the lecture theatre.
Key Features of Project:
- Model Classroom – adaptive technology for special needs students, audio-visual console station, interactive smartboard system, electronic flipcharts, video production system, security paging system, mounted acoustic speakers, modular tables suitable for teams, ergonomic chairs.
- Model Computer Lab – same as above plus: (2) monitors on each table, (25) new student computers with specialized software, augmented reality technology, large tables suitable for active learning, ergonomic chairs.
- Renovated Lecture Theatre – new seating/furniture, a hi-tech podium with table, projectors, screens, mounted acoustic speakers with amplifiers, electronic whiteboards, video production system, controllers for light/sound, document camera, Wacom tablet.
- Innovation Lab – projection and streaming equipment, 3-D printers & scanners, educational robots/IOTs, prototyping equipment, new hardware & software, modular desks/chairs for collaborative educational/networking activities.
- PACE Offices – The Professional and Career Education Division’s administrative offices will be moved to the Centre, allowing for a “one-stop” concept for clients.
The project is expected to be completed in late Summer 2021 and in the Fall, the ultra-modern Career Development Centre will open its doors as an innovative and technology-centred instructional space.
