Texas A&M breaks ground on $133M Meat Science and Technology Center

"The scale and modern technology here will allow us to drive outcomes that weren't possible before, translating research into practical solutions for the entire industry," assistant professor and AgriLife Extension meat specialist Drew Cassens said.

Programs from the university's animal science and poultry science departments, along with AgriLife research and extension efforts, will all operate from the new building.

Officials said keeping the center on the main campus reinforces agriculture's role within the university and strengthens collaboration between research, education and industry partners.

Texas A&M animal science major Mackenzie Cronin described the project as a "significant investment."

"We have an important opportunity to continue learning from today's leaders of meat science," Cronin said.

How we got here

The board of regents approved the new center in March. Director of Texas A&M AgriLife Research G. Cliff Lamb said the May 4 groundbreaking was years in the making, pointing to ongoing efforts of growth within the Texas A&M University System.

Vice Chancellor and Dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences Jeffrey W. Savell noted the groundbreaking ceremony coincided with the 100th anniversary of meat science instruction at Texas A&M.

Before you go

The new Meat Science and Technology Center joins several other major projects for the university system, including:

• April 9: groundbreaking on the $205.5 million Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute
• May 11: ribbon-cutting of the $25 million TEEX Public Safety Training Center
• October 2025: groundbreaking on the $250 million Aplin Center