Gary L. Thomas Energy Engineering Building (GLT)
The Gary L. Thomas Energy Engineering Building (GLT), opened in 2022, and provides a multidisciplinary hub for energy innovation on the UT Austin campus. This building was the first to be Certified LEED Platinum on the UT Austin campus, a fitting achievement for the experiential learning opportunities it offers for students pursuing careers in energy.
The GLT houses teaching and research focused on energy engineering, including teaching labs and six floors of wet labs. With abundant project spaces and collaborative environments, students and faculty in environmental, petroleum, chemical and mechanical engineering disciplines work together to develop the energy industry solutions of the future.
Included in the building is a special “showcase lab”, which is a state-of-the-art high-temperature lab space that enables the Cockrell community to explore new frontiers in research innovation. With its glass wall design and open space, research is on display for all to learn and enjoy.
Building Information
Signature Spaces
Hildebrand Lecture Hall & Lobby
A bright and inviting space for students to study, gather, and exchange ideas with guest speakers from around the globe.
Undergraduate Laboratories
These labs are specifically designed for teaching undergraduate students in the beginning of their engineering experience.
Advanced Energy Labs
Specially designed labs with flexible space and state-of-the-art technology for Texas Engineers studying energy.
EOG Rock Core Laboratory
Texas Engineering’s own specialized rock lab includes core samples from all over the world for students to learn about the Earth’s geology.
Building Highlights
- 184,000 gross square feet
- New, flexible classrooms
- Student project spaces
- Energy-focused labs and research centers
- Lounge and lecture hall for studying, teaching and hosting engineering events
- Outdoor walkways and bridges that connect to ECJ, EER, ACS and the north side of the engineering corridor
Research Impact
Energy Research at the Cockrell SchoolGary L. Thomas
It was his mother’s dream to see her children go to college. So with a scholarship in hand, Gary Thomas set out for UT Austin. Today, he believes in the power of American ingenuity. His career was built on it, his passion is preserving it — and now he’s helping future Longhorns develop it.
