Gonzaga University and Seattle-based energy-efficiency system designer and contractor McKinstry Co. have established a partnership to strengthen the region’s engineering workforce while creating career-connected learning opportunities for students in the Inland Northwest.

“We are proud to deepen our long-standing relationship with Gonzaga,” says McKinstry CEO Dean Allen in a press release. “Gonzaga students and graduates bring talent, curiosity, and purpose to the work ahead, and this partnership creates clear, meaningful pathways from the classroom to industry, reflecting McKinstry and Gonzaga’s shared commitments to the future of this region.”

The partnership includes continued support from Allen and his wife Vicki, and the McKinstry Charitable Foundation, which will support student scholarships, senior design projects in Gonzaga’s School of Engineering & Applied Science, and the McKinstry Fellows Research Program, according to the release. Additionally, new scholarship commitments will also honor Gonzaga President Emeritus Thayne McCulloh and provide undergraduate research support.

A central feature of the partnership is a School of Engineering & Applied Science-aligned career pipeline that offers select students paid partnerships, industry mentorship, and a pathway to full-time employment at McKinstry, following graduation. The program is designed to give students access to real-world engineering experience while addressing growing talent needs in clean energy and infrastructure across Washington state. 

A McKinstry leader will serve on the SEAS dean’s advisory council to ensure continued alignment with industry trends, the release states.

Students will also have opportunities to learn and innovate within McKinstry’s “living labs,” where they will gain practical experience alongside industry professionals.

“This partnership reflects Gonzaga’s commitment to preparing globally minded engineers who are ready to lead in a rapidly evolving industry,” says Gonzaga President Katia Passerini in the release. “McKinstry’s investment expands opportunity while aligning academic excellence with workforce needs, demonstrating how higher education and employers can work together to strengthen regional competitiveness and serve the common good.”