SAU Tech Physical PlanT

The SAU Tech Physical Plant supports student learning and faculty success by maintaining a clean, safe, and functional campus. We’re committed to providing spaces that help fulfill the educational, training, and cultural mission of the college and the communities it serves.

Physical Plant Responsibilities

At Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech), the Physical Plant Department plays a vital role in the daily operations and long-term success of the college. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and service, this dedicated team ensures that all buildings, grounds, and infrastructure function smoothly to support a high-quality learning environment.


Serving a dynamic two year college in South Arkansas, the Physical Plant oversees a broad and complex operation that supports students, faculty, and staff across multiple campuses and specialized training facilities.

What We Manage – By the Numbers

  • 14 Physical Plant Employees
  • 36 Buildings across 4 locations:
  • 25 buildings on Main Campus
  • 9 buildings at the Arkansas Fire Training Academy (AFTA) Campus
  • SAU Tech Aviation Maintenance Building at the Camden Municipal Airport
  • SAU Tech Adult Education Building in the City of Camden
  • 505,000 total square feet of building space
  • 115 total acres of campus property
  • 1,118 doors, 1,251 key cores, and 2,514 keys under management
  • 37 campus vehicles maintained and operated

These figures represent more than just facilities, they represent the scale of the Physical Plant’s daily commitment to maintaining a safe, accessible, and welcoming environment.

Core Responsibilities

  • Facility Maintenance and Repairs

    From classroom repairs to campus-wide upgrades, the Physical Plant manages all aspects of maintenance. Their work keeps SAU Tech’s facilities functional, safe, and conducive to learning.

  • HVAC, Electrical, and Utility Systems

    The department ensures that heating, cooling, and electrical systems are maintained for energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

  • Groundskeeping and Outdoor Care

    The team maintains SAU Tech’s 115-acre campus with attention to both aesthetics and safety. Their responsibilities include landscaping, lawn care, tree trimming, sidewalk upkeep, and seasonal maintenance.

  • Custodial Support and Campus Cleanliness

    In collaboration with custodial teams, the Physical Plant helps maintain clean, sanitary environments in classrooms, restrooms, residence halls, and public spaces—supporting health and hygiene across campus.

  • Safety, Compliance, and Sustainability

    The department ensures campus facilities comply with fire codes, accessibility standards, and environmental regulations. They also lead efforts to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and promote sustainable practices campus-wide.

  • Project and Event Support

    Whether it’s a building renovation, a special event, or a graduation ceremony, the Physical Plant provides essential behind-the-scenes support to ensure logistics, setup, and facility needs are met.

  • Emergency Response and 24/7 Readiness

    The SAU Tech Physical Plant team is prepared to address urgent issues such as power outages, weather-related damage, and system failures, any time, day or night

  • Transportation Fleet Management

    The Physical Plant is responsible for maintaining and operating the college’s fleet of 37 vehicles. These vehicles are vital for campus operations, staff mobility, student transport, and support for training facilities. Regular inspections, maintenance scheduling, fuel management, and compliance with safety standards ensure the fleet remains reliable, efficient, and ready to meet the demands of the college community.

  • Support for Rocket Athletics

    The Physical Plant plays a key role in supporting Rocket Athletics by helping maintain athletic facilities, ensuring sports venues are safe and game-ready, and assisting with logistics for athletic events. From field maintenance and lighting to seating, signage, and equipment setup, the team works behind the scenes to ensure that student-athletes and fans enjoy a quality experience that reflects  SAU Tech’s commitment to excellence in collegiate athletics.

With the Support of the SAU Tech Community

The Physical Plant’s success is built on collaboration. With the steadfast support of the Arkansas Environmental Training Academy (AETA), the Arkansas Fire Training Academy (AFTA), the Workforce Training Division, Rocket Athletics, and the college’s Executive Leadership Team, the department is empowered to meet challenges, plan proactively, and respond quickly to the evolving needs of the campus.

At SAU Tech, the Physical Plant is more than a maintenance department, it is a mission, critical partner in delivering quality education and supporting student life. With just 14 employees, this dedicated team manages over 500,000 square feet of facilities, 115 acres of land, 37 vehicles, and essential infrastructure for athletics and events. They ensure every door opens, every system runs, and every member of the SAU Tech community is supported by a safe, clean, and functional environment.


Together, with the full backing of campus leadership, athletics, and partner teams, the Physical Plant is helping shape a campus where learning and student achievement thrive.