Behind Every Door: Structural Services, the Team Keeping MSU Safe and Operational

Every day, thousands of students, faculty, staff and visitors move through Michigan State University's classrooms, residence halls, athletic facilities, and research spaces. They swipe into buildings, attend classes, conduct research, and cheer on the Spartans without giving much thought to the doors that lock securely, the overhead doors that operate safely, or the infrastructure that keeps campus running. 

That's where Structural Services comes in. 

Part of Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (IPF), Structural Services is the team responsible for maintaining and repairing critical building components across Michigan State's campus. Their work touches nearly every corner of the university, from academic buildings and residence halls to agricultural facilities and athletic venues. 

"We do a wide range of things and work with other departments as well," said Brad Droste, maintenance carpenter. "We work on the safety and security of buildings, restroom maintenance, partition walls, and everything from major repairs to changing out stained ceiling tiles." 

The variety is what makes the job both challenging and rewarding. On any given day, the team may be repairing structural issues at a farm facility, completing renovations for an athletic program, or preparing classrooms for the arrival of students in the fall. 

Because no two days are alike, flexibility and problem-solving are essential. 

"Days with Maintenance and Repair aren't typical," Droste said. "We don't know what we're going to get into until we get here." 

While much of the team's work is planned, some situations require immediate attention. When a door won't secure properly, an overhead door fails, or a building component creates a potential hazard, Structural Services is often among the first teams called to respond. 

"Safety is our number one priority," Droste said. "If we get a call about something that's failing, that's how we prioritize. Safety first, then on to the rest." 

The team's responsibilities extend beyond emergency response. Through routine inspections and preventative maintenance, they identify issues before they become larger problems, helping protect university assets and minimizing disruptions for building occupants. 

"Our inspections and evaluations come in the form of preventative maintenance," Thomas said. "We do walkthroughs of buildings and inspect for potential issues that may need repair or future upgrades." 

Sometimes the work requires more than repairs — it demands creativity. 

Thomas recalled a project at Spartan Stadium where a leaking pipe above the fifth-floor ceiling created a unique challenge. With limited access to the affected area, Structural Services designed and constructed two custom platforms above the ceiling, allowing plumbing crews to safely reach and repair the pipe. 

"The area above the ceiling stretched more than 30 feet to the next floor deck," Thomas said. "Our team planned, designed and constructed two platforms above the ceiling so the plumbing crew could safely make repairs. It took our whole team to accomplish the project in a very short amount of time." 

Projects like these highlight the craftsmanship and collaboration required to maintain one of the nation's largest university campuses. Whether responding to emergencies, supporting fellow trades, or developing custom solutions, Structural Services plays a critical role in keeping campus safe, functional and ready for whatever comes next. 

For the team, the reward isn't recognition; it's knowing that students, faculty, staff and visitors can focus on learning, research and discovery without interruption. 

"Our job is to respond as quickly as possible to prevent or mitigate potential concerns," Thomas said. "Doors that are unsecured pose a risk to anyone inside the building. Overhead doors and gates that won't open or close properly can impact daily operations." 

That commitment to service extends beyond normal business hours. 

"IPF is here," Droste said. "Somebody from IPF is always on call 24/7/365 to address concerns." 

Most members of the campus community will never see the work that goes into maintaining Michigan State's buildings. Yet every secure doorway, functioning classroom and accessible facility reflects the impact of Structural Services. Through their expertise, dedication and craftsmanship, the team helps create the safe and reliable environment that allows Spartans to learn, work, compete, and thrive every day.