Efforts in Historical Preservation
Students at CU Denver Use Trimble Tech in Historical Preservation Efforts
Aug 1, 2025
On May 13th, 2025, six CU Denver engineering students submitted a comprehensive report to a representative for Colorado Preservation Inc. containing a detailed structural analysis of Saint Leander’s School in Pueblo, CO. The team began work in January, conducting research and visiting the property to gain a deeper understanding of the building’s history, architectural style, and structure materials. Their goal was to determine what modifications would be necessary to preserve and potentially reopen the structure for community use. The most valuable part of their analysis took place in February and March when the team used a Trimble TX8 Laser Scanner from the Trimble Technology Lab at CU Denver.
Using this technology, the students generated multiple laser scans of the interior and exterior of the school, which provided them with an in-depth view of the structural integrity and how over time the building may have shifted. These scans were fundamental in allowing the students to provide a clear idea as to what would be needed for the city of Pueblo to re-open the doors to Saint Leander’s School. When asked what he was the biggest challenge of this project, team member Austin Astrike explained that “the structure was built in 1914 so there were no as built drawings...we used the Trimble TX8 to create all of our dimensions of the exterior, which was crucial in determining if there was some deviation the settlement of the building.”
This project offered these six UCD students valuable hands-on experience in construction and civil engineering. Austin highlighted how this project helped him in his job search after graduation. “During my interviews one of the questions that many employers had was about structural rehabilitation. The Trimble TX8 was very valuable in evaluating an older structure and is being used in industry even more every day.” he explained. He also noted that his exposure to field tools such as the TX8 helped him stand out during interviews.
But why St. Leander's? Why try to rehabilitate a building that is over 100 years old? The school and church have a deep-rooted history for the City of Pueblo. Originally built in 1914 as a cornerstone for the local Catholic community, the school was designated a historical landmark by the City of Pueblo in 2010. Unfortunately, since the early 70s it has primarily served as a storage facility. However, the city is interested in reopening its doors as a community space, while preserving its historical significance. “What we hoped to provide was ideas on how they (the city) could use the school to bring back a sense of community pride.”
Thanks to this Trimble Technology Lab at CU Denver, these students as well were able to “Meet their Moment” as future engineers by applying classroom knowledge to real-world industry work. This invaluable experience is another way CU students can graduate feeling ready and prepared to enter the industry with hands-on experience.
