Advanced Industries
Sierra Nevada – Composite Manufacturing Suite
Howell Construction completed a 34,843 SF renovation and manufacturing facility upgrade for SNC Composites, delivering both modernized office space and specialized manufacturing capabilities within a highly secure environment. The project included office and manufacturing areas and was executed under stringent security protocols that required all personnel to be U.S. citizens, complete extensive background checks, and obtain facility-specific security clearances and badges. Due to the sensitive nature of operations within the facility, cell phones, tablets, computers, and photography were strictly prohibited throughout construction.
The project began with a complete interior demolition, taking the space back to the building shell. To meet security accreditation requirements, non-critical utilities were rerouted outside the secure area, eliminating non-secure penetrations through walls and ceilings. Howell worked closely with the facility’s Accrediting Officer throughout design and construction to ensure all security, documentation, and accreditation requirements were successfully achieved.
Office improvements included a full replacement of carpet and luxury vinyl tile flooring, along with a complete repaint to modernize and refresh the workspace. The manufacturing area was transformed to support the production of advanced composite components and included new kitting rooms and the installation of a large-scale autoclave designed to accommodate forklift access. The autoclave features a 10-foot-diameter clear opening and a 20-foot-long chamber, requiring significant structural modifications to the facility. To facilitate installation, a 16-foot by 16-foot opening was cut through existing precast concrete panels and reinforced with new concrete columns. An industrial scissor lift was recessed into the slab to streamline material handling and product movement in and out of the autoclave.
Throughout the project, Howell coordinated closely with owner-furnished equipment vendors to develop installation pathways and maintain the project schedule. Despite the complex security requirements, structural modifications, and specialized manufacturing infrastructure, the project was completed in just 14 weeks, on schedule and within budget.