LNG Center of Excellence Opens at McNeese 

The LNG Center of Excellence at McNeese State University is now open, reinforcing Southwest Louisiana’s position as the global leader in natural gas exports. The new Center was created to serve as a hub for training, research and engagement focused on the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, bringing together students, industry leaders, government partners and educators to support one of the region’s most critical economic drivers. 

The official grand opening was celebrated on April 20 with a ribbon cutting and reception, with multiple local, state and federal officials speaking on the significance of the new facility, which also houses the National Center of Excellence for LNG Safety. 

“Today we formally introduce not only to Lake Charles, not only to Southwest Louisiana, not only to the entire state of Louisiana, but today we announce to the nation an operational concept that brings together higher education, community, government and industry all in one setting to advance economic development along with the intellectual and regulatory understanding of LNG production and its impact on the world,” said Dr. Kedrick Nicholas, interim president of McNeese. “The LNG Center of Excellence represents a strategic investment in our students, our workforce and the future of energy in Louisiana. It strengthens our ability to prepare a highly skilled workforce while fostering meaningful partnerships with industry.” 

Designed to support both academic and workforce training programs, the center provides opportunities for hands-on learning, technology development and the exchange of best practices across the LNG industry. 

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) announced in May 2025 the selection of McNeese State University as the site for its National Center of Excellence for Liquefied Natural Gas Safety. Paul Roberti, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Administrator, spoke at the opening event.  

“This Center will be a vital resource for advancing the safety of LNG facilities across the country, directly supporting the administration’s energy dominance agenda. It is designed to be a central hub for collaboration among all stakeholders, for sharing knowledge and best practices within the LNG industry and government, supporting the continued growth of the industry. I look forward to our continued collaboration as we work to expand the United States’ role as the global leader in LNG safety, innovation and excellence,” said Paul Roberti, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Administrator 

“Today’s ribbon cutting is more than just the opening of a building. It represents a shared purpose to build on Louisiana’s expertise and prepare the next generation to carry that leadership forward. This Center is a direct investment in that future. Because let’s be clear, when it comes to LNG, Louisiana is not merely participating in the global market. We’re leading it,” said Devin Harrison, Executive Director of Business Development for Louisiana Economic Development (LED). 

The more than $10 million, 23,000-square-foot facility is located on West Sale Road. Funding for the project was a collaborative effort that included a $2.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, a $4 million investment from the McNeese Foundation and contributions from founding donors who were recognized at the grand opening reception. These are Woodside Energy, the Port of Lake Charles, the City of Lake Charles, the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, and the H.C. Drew Estate. 

Dr. Nikos Kiritsas, Director of Operations for the LNG Center, said industry partners played a key role in the development of the center, helping ensure that curriculum and training programs are developed to align with real-world needs and evolving workforce demands. He provided highlights of the educational opportunities the Center will provide, including the development of a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in LNG Engineering, plans for a virtual reality lab and a hands-on-training unit. He also recognized the Center’s collaborative training partners, Honeywell and GTI Energy. 

Designed by Kudla Architecture, Keiland Construction was the contractor for the Center. The facility features include multiple training rooms, a lab, a control room, administrative offices, banquet room and a conference room. The offices for the National Center of Excellence for LNG Safety are located on the second floor. Also nearing completion on this floor is new office for ReCon Management Services Inc., a Southwest Louisiana company that provides engineering, consulting and project management services to regional industry. 

For more information about the LNG Center of Excellence, visit mcneeselngcenter.com.