Fabrication Innovation at The National Medal of Honor Museum

Brandt, a Southland Industries company, is leading the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) work for The National Medal of Honor Museum, set to open on March 25, 2025. This museum will create deep, personal connections to the stories of Medal of Honor recipients and highlight the conflicts they faced, as well as the values the Medal represents. 

This project is a team effort, with leaders such as Doug Johns, Senior Project Manager, Mike Clarke, Fabrication Director, Robbie Hedrick, Business Development Manager, and Nick Stason, Regional Manager at Victaulic playing important roles. 

Project overview

The National Medal of Honor Museum spans 83,000 square feet and includes exhibits, a theater, multi-purpose rooms, and offices. The heart of the museum is the Exhibition Hall, a massive 200-foot by 200-foot steel structure held 54 feet above the rotunda by five large concrete columns, which symbolize the branches of the U.S. military. Routing MEP utilities through these columns was a unique challenge, requiring innovative thinking and careful attention to detail. 

"With the top of the columns measuring just 30 inches and 2 windows of 12 by 24 inches for our utilities to exit into the soffit area, coordinating the exact location of each riser had to be spot on. If installed off by fractions of an inch, the elbows and bends needed to exit would probably clash and installation would be more difficult," Doug said. 

Planning during the preconstruction phase 

In the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, early collaboration leads to innovation. To manage the project's challenges, Brandt's AEC technology experts were involved from the start to plan the MEP system routing through the columns. 

Preconstruction was anchored by the expertise of our engineering and BIM teams, who assisted with accurate budgeting and design modeling. Before construction began, the team modeled the system in 3D and made a video to show how the installation would work once the columns and racks were ready. This careful planning helped secure the project, though some changes were needed after it was awarded to meet electrical code requirements. 

"It was clear from the start that there was concern about the constructability of these columns. The fact that Brandt could put those worries to bed and ensure the team that we had a good plan for these columns was the reason we won this project. The video model presented during our interview didn't hurt either," Robbie said. 

The columns were prefabricated at our North Texas shop, marking a major achievement in fabrication expertise. Since the columns had limited space, the team had to get creative to fit utilities like water, power, and fire protection systems. Brandt's team routed these systems through five openings, two-foot by six-inches, pushing the limits of what prefabrication can do in complex projects. 

This project reflects the growing trend of multi-trade prefabrication in the AEC industry, where off-site manufacturing is recognized for its safety, quality, and efficiency. 

"The concept for this fabrication began during a meeting discussing the restricted space we had to install our MEP systems. We were tasked with providing a solution for installation and access to service these systems if needed. Our team worked together to provide a solution which resulted in highlighting our capabilities as a full-service MEP contractor," Mike said.  

Creating a lasting impression on The National Medal of Honor Museum  

Installing the 40-foot prefabricated racks required precise coordination between the fabrication, field, and safety teams. The field team had to lower the racks into the columns perfectly, which involved weeks of planning with the general contractor, crane operator, safety team, and installation team. The superintendent even went 60 feet into the air to mark the exit points for easier installation. 

Leveraging Victaulic grooved pipe joining solutions, our team was able to expedite installation, significantly minimize the footprint of the mechanical space and increase the value derived from each joint.

"We were honored to be involved in a project that so closely aligns with Victaulic's values and strong military heritage, which dates to the first use of grooved mechanical couplings in World War I to transport fuel and water to the troops," added Nick Stason, Regional Manager, Victaulic. "Another value we pride ourselves on is empowering our partners to find innovative solutions to complex construction challenges for faster, safer and easier installations, as demonstrated on impactful projects like the National Medal of Honor Museum." 

Doug reflects, "This will be an iconic building, honoring the stories and sacrifices of Medal of Honor recipients. Everyone involved in this project should take pride in contributing to a legacy of such significance." 

As Veterans Day approaches, Southland and Brandt are honored to work on this meaningful project, especially as employers of veterans and active military personnel. We're proud to support those who have served our country and to contribute to projects that honor their dedication and sacrifice.