Texas State Technical College (TSTC) and the Harlingen Economic Development Center partnered to provide the University Center at Harlingen to engage life-long learners in pursuing post-graduate degrees locally. Eight different universities share space for on-site and distance learning instruction. ERO designed a 38,200 gsf LEED Gold environment that incorporated state-of-the-art audio and visual technology in every learning area for rapid and reliable access to Internet and technology-driven information for each student. All lecture halls are set up for student comfort and the ability to see and hear professors and other students no matter where seated. Remote cameras are well placed to pan to each speaker for capture on screen, in real time and allow student participation without reverberation, distortion or distraction.

A respect of area history and culture is demonstrated in both the interior and exterior design motifs. A woven pattern on the exterior walls pays homage to the Coahuiltecan First American tribe that inhabited the region. Repurposed lumber salvaged from the site’s demolished Army Air Corps barracks form elegant beams that grace the interior ceilings and focal wall in the building entrance.