Construction

New buildings and upgraded spaces are essential to an ever-changing campus community.
Get to know the Construction team responsible for building Big Orange spaces for big dreamers below.

In-House Construction

Capital Construction

The Capital and In-House Construction units are led by Assistant Vice Chancellor Matt Motsko.

These teams are responsible for construction including, but not limited to: new campus buildings, room renovations, classroom upgrades, and building finishes including sign fabrication, interior/exterior painting, and accessibility improvements. Construction also oversees the Special Team to Assist Research (STAR) which works directly with researchers and department heads to ensure lab spaces are adequately fitted and maintained so world-changing discoveries can continue without interruption.

In-House Construction

In-House Construction is responsible for project coordination, construction/remodeling (primarily in existing spaces), estimating services, building finishes, new loading docks and accessible ramp installation, outdoor light, and other major building projects as assigned.

985

Gallons of Paint used in a fiscal year

1500

Pounds of
Concrete mix
used in 2024

Classroom upgrades over Summer

102

Electrical Outlets added/relocated

Bryan Lord

Director of In-House Construction

Bryan brings 30+ years of commercial and industrial construction experience, including 18 years in project management. Before joining the university, he worked for a prominent contractor in Knoxville and contributed to several campus projects, including Pratt Pavilion, Sherri Parker Lee Stadium, Lindsey Nelson Stadium, two renovations of Neyland Stadium, and more. Bryan has progressed through various roles at the University over the past 13+ years, starting in the Electric Shop. He has held positions as Senior Electrician, Project Manager, Shop Superintendent, and Assistant Director in FS Construction.

Capital Construction

Capital Construction is responsible for overseeing capital construction projects once the project breaks ground.
This unit is new to the Facilities Services team and is staffed with project managers and architects that bring unique experience and insight to the table, helping to create a better campus of tomorrow one project at a time.

Mike Materna

Director of Capital Construction

Mike Materna is a highly driven leader with more than 25 years of experience in commercial and residential design and construction. Skilled in planning, cost control, budget administration, and communication, Mike was named UT Facilities Services Director of Capital Construction in September 2024. With a passion for serving on higher education campuses, Mike is building his team with the goal of collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to safe practices across all capital projects. When he’s not on campus, he enjoys spending time outdoors running, hiking, and swimming.

Building the Future of Rocky Top

Our professional Capital Construction team leads the way in bringing big projects to life at the University of Tennessee. From new academic buildings and residence halls to major renovations and upgrades, they make sure every project is built to support our students, faculty, and staff.

Crafting a Campus That Lasts

The team works with local and national architects, contractors, and campus partners to keep projects on time, on budget, and up to the high standards that make UT a great place to learn, live, and work. Their mission is to create a campus legacy—spaces that support today’s needs while laying the foundation for generations of Volunteers to come.