Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

Milwaukee, WI

The Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) is a leading nonprofit college of art and design. Through its nationally recognized Bachelor of Fine Arts program, MIAD serves as a catalyst between passion and purpose, launching the professional lives of thousands of artists, designers, visionaries, and entrepreneurs of all backgrounds since 1974. MIAD is located in the Jane Bradley Pettit Building, a 245,000-square-foot former warehouse constructed in 1920 and fully renovated in 1992, situated on the Milwaukee River in the city's Historic Third Ward.

Given the building’s age, upgrades must be made to ensure environmental and financial sustainability. Investing in planning and data-driven decision-making will catalyze measurable climate action, positioning MIAD to pursue targeted capital improvements with confidence, accountability, and demonstrated environmental impact. MIAD developed a Sustainability Plan in 2023 that aligns with its strategic plan. An energy analysis demonstrated inefficiencies in MIAD's HVAC system, and a 2024 FCI Implementation grant supported upgrading the river-level mechanicals including mechanical controls, cooling tower, and air handlers saving an estimated 169,147 kWh and $34,424 in energy costs annually. By reducing energy expenditures, MIAD can direct more resources toward student scholarships, innovative curricular programs, and community exhibitions.

A 2026 FCI Scoping Grant will support development of an energy assessment and phased upgrade roadmap, identifying inefficiencies and prioritizing capital improvements to advance the college's long-term operational sustainability.