General Motors set lofty goals for its new 435,000 sf Powertrain headquarters: to bring all division employees to one location, meet its own stringent requirements for expanded Minority Business Enterprise participation, and play an active role in the renaissance of Pontiac, MI. Building goals were equally ambitious: massive new construction, renovations to existing workplaces, high design, and a host of employee amenities.

GM sought this same unity in its design/build team: Barton Malow designers and constructors, affiliate Ideal Contracting, and our tradespeople. Challenges were many, such as creating elevated walkways (to connect existing and new structures) while keeping occupied facilities operational. The solution: Constructing walkways on the ground, then air-lifted and placed them into openings cut into the buildings.

Powertrain employees are housed on the upper floors of the new facility. The first floor includes a main lobby, commons area, conference center, full kitchen and dining area, employee fitness center, and a museum highlighting the history of the engine.

With its beautiful and functional new headquarters, GM Powertrain strengthens a community even as it gains a global competitive edge.