Touring Missouri’s New Multi‑Agency State Lab: WIC Week Day Five.....

WIC WEEK, Day 5 (part two), our chapter enjoyed a fantastic PD&E event with a tour of the new 208,000‑square‑foot multi‑agency state laboratory in Jefferson City. The facility brings together five state groups—DHSS, MDA, MDC, DNR, and the MSHP crime lab—all under one roof.

Our hosts, McCownGordon Construction, kicked things off with an overview of the BMI process and how their team coordinates the many subcontractors and suppliers involved in a project of this scale. It was a great behind‑the‑scenes look at how everything comes together.

We walked all four stories of the building, seeing the specialized labs designed for each agency. The facility also includes plenty of shared amenities, like a 200-person meeting room, multiple conference rooms, a roomy lunch area with seating on the outdoor patio, a fitness center, and a rooftop deck overlooking the rock bluff.

After the tour, we were treated to fresh‑made Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, sides, and dessert. Then the group got creative by hand‑painting our own canvas bags—a fun and relaxing way to end the afternoon.

It was a perfect mix of learning, connection, and creativity. A big thank‑you to chapter member Haley Houseweart for putting together such a great WIC Week PD&E experience!