Auburn Research and Technology Foundation Breaks Ground on RFID Lab

The Auburn Research and Technology Foundation (ARTF) broke ground in April of 2026 on a $22 million facility for Auburn University's RFID Lab in Alabama. The 100,000-sf building was designed by Goodwyn Mills Cawood to meet the growing demands of innovation, research, and collaboration in advancing the development of radio frequency identification technologies. The dynamic hub will enable the simulation of complex supply chain environments and support the scale-up of new operations while accelerating the adoption of groundbreaking solutions for aviation, aerospace, retail, and manufacturing. Four high-bay laboratories will be accompanied by offices, chamber rooms, and truck docks. The transformative structure is being created in partnership with the university and the City of Auburn. Bailey-Harris Construction is acting as general contractor and the city’s Industrial Development Board is providing construction management services. Occupancy is anticipated in summer of 2027.

The RFID Lab will be the first of several facilities that will rise in the Auburn Research Park’s newly-formed advanced manufacturing district. Supporting rapid prototyping, the 45-acre campus will streamline the iteration process for scientists and businesses to take new technologies from proof-of-concept to market, with shared spaces and equipment to reduce operating costs. By strategically colocating faculty experts and industry partners, this integrated ecosystem will also allow students to gain hands-on experience with real-world systems to enhance professional capabilities. Focus areas will include automation, robotics, AI, digital engineering, lean manufacturing, advanced machining, additive manufacturing, and mass timber production.