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A new landmark building at the University of South Wales (USW) is set to redefine how computing, engineering, and technology are taught and experienced, shaping the next generation of innovators and industry leaders. Located at the university’s Pontypridd Campus in Treforest, the Calon building will transform the delivery of STEM education across the region. Spanning five storeys, Calon will feature more than 40 cutting-edge teaching, learning, and research spaces - including electronics and hydraulics labs, a flight simulator, a robotics lab, industrial research facilities, collaborative teaching zones, and an innovation hub to support project-based learning. The building will also include virtual reality suites and exhibition areas designed to showcase student and industry innovation. A vibrant, interdisciplinary space Rooted in USW’s proud heritage of applied learning and real-world impact, Calon is designed to power the next generation of engineers, built environment professionals, and computer and data scientists. It will be a vibrant, interdisciplinary space where students, academics, and industry partners come together to co-create solutions, spark innovation, and shape the workforce of tomorrow. Disciplines such as engineering, computing, aerospace, and the built environment will converge under one roof to tackle real-world challenges, drive research breakthroughs, and support economic growth. This collaboration will strengthen the university’s research-informed teaching, keeping its curriculum industry-focused and responsive to future skills needs. Designed with sustainability at its heart Sustainability is central to Calon’s design, aligning with the university’s Net-Zero Strategy and its ambition to be carbon neutral by 2040. The building incorporates low-carbon and circular design principles to minimise its environmental footprint. Features include energy-efficient heating, power generation, and lighting systems, along with a biodiverse green roof and living walls. Low-carbon concrete and recycled materials have been used throughout the construction to reduce embodied carbon and promote sustainable innovation in practice. Built by USW alumni Calon’s development has also been a homecoming for many former USW students who are helping to bring the project to life. More than 140 people have worked on the build so far, including teams from construction company BAM, specialist subcontractors Thames Valley Construction and NG Bailey, Stride Treglown architects, Arup engineers, and cost management consultancy Currie & Brown. Among them is BAM Senior Surveyor and USW graduate Sophie Hawker, who said: “I’m thrilled to contribute to USW in this way - transitioning from a student here to now leading a project that future students will benefit from.” Kingsley Davies, Design Manager for BAM Construction and fellow USW graduate, added: “Having a personal connection to the university, there’s a real sense of pride in working on a project for this campus.” Shaping the future Scheduled to open in autumn 2026, Calon will be a place where innovation, sustainability, and collaboration come together - providing an inspiring environment for students and researchers while strengthening the university’s impact across Wales and beyond. For further information about the University of South Wales, visit www.southwales.ac.uk
