A New Chapter for First Responder Training
Larson-Danielson Construction has begun work on a major campus expansion for the MAAC Foundation (MAAC) in Valparaiso, Indiana. This project includes a new two-story headquarters and Kathryn Hall, a dedicated indoor training facility for K9 units.
The expansion marks a significant milestone for MAAC, a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2016. The organization provides training to firefighters, EMS professionals, police officers, and K9 teams across Northwest Indiana. The MAAC Foundation has delivered over 575,000 training hours and graduated more than 650 firefighter and EMT students.
The addition of classrooms, skill-training rooms, and collaborative spaces will allow MAAC to host more courses, workshops, and hands-on simulations. Funding from the Dean and Barbara White Family Foundation and Kathryn McMillan has made this expansion possible. The project will enhance the MAAC Foundation’s ability to prepare first responders for real-world emergencies.
The MAAC Foundation held a groundbreaking ceremony for the project on Thursday, November 6. The event celebrated the history of MAAC and the future of the training campus.
Larson-Danielson as the Design-Build Partner
Larson-Danielson Construction and Facet Architecture serve as the design/build team for the MAAC project. By keeping design and construction together, we streamline communication, accelerate decision-making, and keep commercial construction projects on schedule.
With more than 60 years of design/build experience, Larson-Danielson delivers projects that balance functionality, aesthetic appeal, and operational efficiency. Through detailed planning and careful cost monitoring, every project remains highly cost-effective without compromising quality or performance.
Our integrated design-build approach allows Larson-Danielson and Facet Architecture to collaborate closely, minimizing delays and maximizing value. This teamwork produces practical construction solutions that help the MAAC Foundation provide world-class training for first responders.
Why Design-Build Matters: Combining design and construction in one team streamlines communication, reduces delays, and maximizes project value.
New MAAC Headquarters: Expanding Capacity
The new MAAC Headquarters will serve as the campus’s central hub, featuring classrooms, skill labs, and modern office spaces. EMT training rooms on the second floor support advanced simulations, while the first floor hosts firefighter and law enforcement courses. Expanded office and conference areas accommodate the growing MAAC team and partner organizations.
These updated spaces enable the MAAC Foundation to expand training capacity, strengthen collaboration, and provide a highly functional environment for first responders across the region. Enhanced facilities also support hands-on learning and promote professional development for regional emergency services personnel.
Kathryn Hall: Specialized K9 Training Facility
Kathryn Hall is a climate-controlled, indoor K9 training facility named in honor of Kathryn McMillan. The building includes a dog wash, garage for transport vehicles, classrooms, and a flexible training area for handlers and their canine partners.
The facility ensures year-round usability, enabling K9 teams to train regardless of weather conditions. By providing a dedicated, controlled environment, Kathryn Hall supports search and rescue, detection, and law enforcement operations, enhancing the effectiveness and safety of K9 teams.
Architectural rendering of MAAC HQ and Kathryn Hall
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Mission
The MAAC Foundation expansion ensures that first responders across Northwest Indiana have access to elite training in modern, purpose-built facilities. Larson-Danielson’s role as the design/build partner demonstrates our commitment to high-quality construction and efficient project delivery.
As the project advances, the new headquarters and Kathryn Hall will provide critical resources, foster collaboration among agencies, and help first responders serve their communities safely and effectively. These modern facilities strengthen regional emergency response capabilities while supporting professional development and operational readiness.