North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Skanska, a global development and construction firm, has begun work on a new life sciences facility at Durham Technical Community College’s Main Campus.
The Novo Nordisk Life Sciences Center, a 30,700-sq. ft. single-story building, will replace an existing facility recently demolished to make way for the project. When complete, it will feature 12 flexible open lab modules, classroom space, break rooms, and study areas tailored for the College’s BioWork and Biotechnology programs. The building will also provide training space for employees in the region’s fast-growing life sciences sector.
“The life sciences sector continues to thrive across the Triangle Region, and we are honored to collaborate with Durham Tech on the development of a facility that will enhance the academic environment for students,” said Mark Balling, executive vice president and general manager for Skanska’s Mid-Atlantic region. “This space is designed to support their preparation for careers in a dynamic industry that is increasingly vital to the growth and resilience of our local economy.”
Durham County Economic Development reports that more than 500 life science companies operate across the Triangle, positioning the new center to serve as a key training ground for the next generation of professionals in the field.
“We were thrilled to break ground on the Novo Nordisk Life Sciences Center with Skanska and our other partners,” said Durham Tech President J.B. Buxton. “This is a transformative project for Durham Tech’s Main Campus and I look forward to watching it take shape in the coming months.”
Skanska has previously built 129 specialty and life sciences facilities for higher education and healthcare partners worldwide. Construction on Durham Tech’s new center began in August 2025 and is scheduled for completion in March 2027.