Who We Are

The Academic Facilities Office (AFO) supports the Office of the Vice Provost for Academic Planning and Facilities by providing facility construction services and laboratory technical support to departments at UC Berkeley.

Our primary mission has always been to provide facilities re-engineering and construction management to the academic arm of the Berkeley campus. In addition, we work in tandem with Capital Projects and other recharge agencies on larger projects.

What We Do

AFO construction crews consist of carpenters, plumbers, electricians and equipment repair staff who are highly skilled and trained in performing modifications and renovations in instructional and scientific research facilities.

These team members are also highly skilled in fabricating one-of-a-kind, prototypical equipment and jigs. In addition, our mechanicians have been trained in the repair of a wide range of scientific equipment.

AFO provides services for:

• Instructional and research laboratories
• Animal care facilities
• Museums, libraries and collections
• Offices and support space

A primary source of work for AFO is provided through custom renovations of science-specific space and alterations to associated laboratories and office space. Work includes fabrication, installation and repair of scientific research fixtures, cabinetry, research laboratory equipment, electrical regulators, power supplies, gas piping, air supply systems, vacuum services, deionized water, sea water and lab waste.

Office and computer laboratory design provide additional work for AFO. Office layout and design work is accomplished by our technical staff and supported through a UC integrated office furniture and equipment program via Steelcase Furniture Manufacturers.

How We Work

AFO works on an "actual cost" recharge system. All services are initially estimated to as close an approximation as possible. Unexpected conditions can crop up that were not foreseen or anticipated, but in most cases, the actual cost will be somewhat lower than that estimated.

There are two ways to initiate work with AFO:

• If the job is small and you merely need it taken care of in the most expeditious manner, you may request the work to be started without an estimate. An authorized signatory must fill out and sign a Work Order Request Form and provide a chart string for the charges.
  
  
• If the job is sizable, you will need to request an estimate in advance of work beginning. You will be contacted by an estimator to set up an appointment to discuss your needs. After the estimate is given, and you wish to proceed with the work, as outlined in the estimate, you will be asked to fill out a Work Order Request Form. You will be required to provide authority-granting information and account chart strings at this time. If the project is sizable, the funds will be liened or a plant account will be established in order to pay for the work.

Attention to Detail

AFO has earned a reputation for excellence and refined craftsmanship in all that it does. It is our continued and relentless pursuit of quality construction and client service that has made us the only viable partner many academic departments feel comfortable using.

When you need the job done to the highest standards and completed in a timely fashion, you will find Academic Facilities capable of performing to your expectations. Knowing what is our business and what our customers consider value is the cornerstone of our commitment.