The Texas Military Department (TMD) has recently demonstrated its commitment to innovation and modernization with the unveiling of its Training and Innovation Center at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas.
This groundbreaking project is a new 2,900-square-foot facility, the first large-scale, 3D-printed structure approved by the Texas Historical Commission, blending advanced construction technology with historical preservation.
Camp Mabry, established in 1892, is steeped in military history and tradition. The base serves as the National Guard Headquarters and plays a critical role in both state and national operations. Thousands of citizen soldiers drill there monthly, preparing for deployments and emergency responses.
Now, this historic site is home to a cutting-edge structure that embodies the fusion of the past and the future.
Innovation Born from Necessity
The project emerged as part of a broader effort to replace outdated, temporary buildings that had long exceeded their lifespan.
Among TMD’s mission was to create a modern, energy-efficient space for training and collaboration while respecting the historic legacy of Camp Mabry.
However, funding new construction projects in the military is no easy task, as resource constraints often force leadership to think outside the box.
Brig. Gen. Monie Ulis highlighted this challenge and the solution it inspired, explaining in a statement how:
The Texas Military Department (TMD) has recently demonstrated its commitment to innovation and modernization with the unveiling of its Training and Innovation Center at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas.
This groundbreaking project is a new 2,900-square-foot facility, the first large-scale, 3D-printed structure approved by the Texas Historical Commission, blending advanced construction technology with historical preservation.
Camp Mabry, established in 1892, is steeped in military history and tradition. The base serves as the National Guard Headquarters and plays a critical role in both state and national operations. Thousands of citizen soldiers drill there monthly, preparing for deployments and emergency responses.
Now, this historic site is home to a cutting-edge structure that embodies the fusion of the past and the future.
Innovation Born from Necessity
The project emerged as part of a broader effort to replace outdated, temporary buildings that had long exceeded their lifespan.
Among TMD’s mission was to create a modern, energy-efficient space for training and collaboration while respecting the historic legacy of Camp Mabry.
However, funding new construction projects in the military is no easy task, as resource constraints often force leadership to think outside the box.
Brig. Gen. Monie Ulis highlighted this challenge and the solution it inspired, explaining in a statement how:
“This project highlights the unique possibilities of technology and TMD’s commitment to drive innovative, creative ways to solve problems, even when facing resource constraints. It helps us deliver solutions to our warfighters and state responders who keep us safe.”
The result is a facility that is not only functional but also revolutionary in its construction.
Utilizing 3D printing technology, the building stands as a symbol of how innovation can solve modern military challenges.
The Role of Collaboration
The Training and Innovation Center’s success was made possible through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant and partnerships across the defense and construction industries.
Key players included the Air Force Civil Engineering Command, the Texas Historical Commission, and Austin-based ICON, a leader in 3D construction printing.
Brian Stevens, TMD’s Director of Plans, Programs, and Innovation, emphasized the importance of teamwork, saying that “[t]his project wouldn’t have been possible without a massive, collaborative team from across the defense and innovation ecosystem.”
The Texas Historical Commission worked closely with the team to ensure the building fit seamlessly within the Camp Mabry Historic District. Even the color palette was carefully chosen, replicating the aged brick hues of nearby 100-year-old buildings. This attention to detail underscores a deep respect for the site’s legacy while embracing 21st-century technology.
“This is a testament to the future of construction and a nod to the historical significance of this site,” ICON CEO Graeme Waitzkin noted, celebrating this achievement as a milestone for both innovation and history.
Hands-On Innovation for Texas Soldiers and Airmen
The Training and Innovation Center is more than just a building; it’s a learning opportunity. Soldiers and Airmen were directly involved in its construction, laying the foundation slab and gaining firsthand experience with cutting-edge 3D printing techniques.
For TMD personnel, this project provided exposure to emerging technologies that are reshaping infrastructure for the Army and the Department of Defense.
“Our personnel gained exposure to and an understanding of this innovative technology and how it can support Army and Department of Defense needs,” Stevens explained.
These skills will prove invaluable as the military increasingly incorporates advanced construction methods into its operations, improving efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and resilience.
A Design That Honors Tradition
Beyond its technological significance, the Training and Innovation Center includes symbolic design elements that honor the legacy of Camp Mabry and its soldiers.
A notable feature is the three-dimensional Chevron wall, representing the military rank structure—a tradition that dates back to the Roman legions.
“This feature is a testament to the soldiers who helped build this facility and those who will use it for years to come,” Stevens added.
This thoughtful inclusion ties the modern facility to the storied history of military service and sacrifice, a fitting tribute to those who train and serve at Camp Mabry.
Camp Mabry: A Hub of Preparedness and Tradition
As the home of the Texas National Guard Headquarters, Camp Mabry plays a vital role in state and national defense. The base supports emergency operations across Texas and serves as a training ground for the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Rangers, and thousands of National Guard soldiers.
The unveiling of the Training and Innovation Center reflects TMD’s broader mission of “Texans serving Texans.”
Brig. Gen. Ulis reinforced this commitment, noting the department’s focus on modernization initiatives, including advancements in unmanned aerial systems, energy resilience, and critical infrastructure protection.
“The Texas Military Department is the largest National Guard in the United States, and we take pride in our mission of Texans serving Texans,” Ulis said.
The Training and Innovation Center is now positioned to serve as a hub for collaborative planning and modernization efforts, enabling TMD to better prepare for future challenges.
Final Thoughts
The Training and Innovation Center at Camp Mabry stands as a testament to what’s possible when history, innovation, and collaboration converge.
“We will continue to aggressively pursue innovative initiatives in areas like unmanned aerial systems, energy resilience, and critical infrastructure protection,” Ulis concluded.
It’s a bold step into the future of military construction and a symbol of the Texas Military Department’s unwavering commitment to its mission: serving Texans while protecting America’s future.
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