Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) is set to introduce a new course, "Building Preservation Technology," in August as part of its historic preservation program. The course will be led by Ron Staley, a construction executive known for managing significant restoration projects such as the Michigan State Capitol and Detroit's Michigan Central Station.

Staley expressed the challenge of finding students with both historic preservation degrees and construction backgrounds, likening it to "finding a unicorn." He emphasized the course's goal to prepare professionals capable of restoring historic buildings effectively.

The course aims to provide students with technical skills and knowledge in restoration methods and material science for structures built before 1975. Students will have opportunities to explore historic sites like Belle Isle’s Scott Fountain and Michigan Central Station.

Open to various disciplines, including design, architecture, construction management, and museum studies, the class addresses growing industry demand for trained professionals in adaptive reuse and historical construction methods.

EMU’s Historic Preservation Program has been recognized nationally since its founding in 1979. It remains one of the largest graduate programs certified by the National Council for Preservation Education. Staley encourages students to engage actively in preservation organizations and build relationships within the field.

For further details about this new offering, interested individuals can visit EMU’s Historic Preservation Program webpage.