Address:5010 Air Cargo Rd, Tampa, FL 33614
Work: KENPAT provided Exterior framing, interior framing, insulation, drywall, finishing, gypsum wallboard, light gauge metal, framing and sheathing.
General Contractor: Barr & Barr
Architect: ASD | SKY
Dates: Feb. 1, 2023 - Feb. 29, 2024
Awards:
• 2025 ABC Gulf Coast Chapter Excellence in Construction Eagle Award
CAE USA Headquarters
Situation
CAE USA, a global leader in military and civil training solutions, expanded its presence in the U.S. with a new headquarters consisting of three buildings: a corporate office, a manufacturing facility, and a training center. KENPAT was contracted exclusively for the corporate headquarters. The building’s unique curved design and sweeping layout demanded high levels of accuracy and coordination to ensure construction precision and performance integrity.
Task
KENPAT was awarded the contract to execute all exterior and interior framing, sheathing, insulation, drywall, and finishing for the corporate headquarters—totaling 111,736 square feet. Work included installation of over 10,500 boards of drywall, 100,000 square feet of insulation, 30,000 linear feet of exterior studs, and 215,000 linear feet of interior studs.
Coordination was key due to the design complexities, evolving tenant-driven changes, and trades impacted by supply chain disruptions.
Action
Construction began on Feb. 1, 2023, with KENPAT mobilizing immediately after foundational work.
• Exterior Framing: Crews tackled the curved exterior, including a signature “eyebrow” framing detail at the building’s front. Close collaboration with the architect, GC, and glazing contractor ensured structural alignment.
• Interior Systems: Once the envelope was complete, KENPAT completed all interior framing and drywall. The work demanded exacting layout precision, especially in the long, curving corridors and high-profile atrium.
• Problem Solving: KENPAT coordinated with affected trades facing supply chain delays and participated in regular site meetings to analyze schedules, adjust sequencing, and maintain project momentum.
• Unique Features: The atrium featured multimedia wall systems and high-end finishes, while custom framing details supported built-in cabinetry and high-load multimedia equipment in conference rooms.
Result
Despite evolving design inputs and industry-wide disruptions, KENPAT delivered a sophisticated Class-A office facility on schedule. The headquarters now includes premium office space, a café, fitness center, and advanced conference rooms—aligning with CAE’s innovation-driven mission. The project illustrates KENPAT’s capacity for trade coordination, schedule optimization, and execution of complex commercial scopes. “This state-of-the-art center will not only drive advancements in simulation and training technology but also serve as a hub for strengthening partnerships with the U.S. military and allied forces,” said Marc Parent, CAE President and CEO.This achievement earned KENPAT the 2025 ABC Gulf Coast Excellence in Construction Eagle Award.