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Updated in [February 21st, 2023]

This course will explore the history of the Merchandise Mart, the largest historic building in Chicago. Students will learn why the land has always been important to Chicago trade, the construction of the Mart, its grand opening, and why it is known as a “city within a city.” The course will also include a tour of the Mart, a look at the history of radio broadcast at the Mart, the Merchandise Mart train station, and what happened to the rail freight yard. Additionally, students will learn what is in the Mart’s basement, its connection to the Chicago Freight Tunnels, how the Chicago Flood was first noticed at the Mart, and how the Mart transformed the Chicago Loop.

[Applications]
The application of this course could include further research into the history of the Merchandise Mart and its impact on Chicago. Additionally, the course could be used to explore the potential of the forgotten rail yard beneath the building, and how it could be used to benefit the city. Finally, the course could be used to explore the potential of the Merchandise Mart's basement and its connection to the Chicago Freight Tunnels.

[Career Paths]
From this course, learners can explore career paths in the fields of architecture, engineering, urban planning, and logistics.

1. Architect: Architects design and plan the construction of buildings, including the Merchandise Mart. They must be knowledgeable in building codes, materials, and design trends. Architects must also be able to work with clients to create a design that meets their needs. As cities become more densely populated, architects will be in high demand to create efficient and aesthetically pleasing buildings.

2. Engineer: Engineers are responsible for the structural integrity of buildings. They must be knowledgeable in the principles of physics, mathematics, and engineering to ensure that buildings are safe and structurally sound. Engineers must also be able to work with architects and other professionals to create a design that meets the needs of the client. With the increasing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, engineers will be in high demand.

3. Urban Planner: Urban planners are responsible for the development of cities and towns. They must be knowledgeable in land use, zoning, transportation, and environmental regulations. Urban planners must also be able to work with local governments and communities to create plans that meet the needs of the people. As cities become more densely populated, urban planners will be in high demand to create efficient and sustainable plans for the future.

4. Logistics: Logistics professionals are responsible for the transportation and storage of goods. They must be knowledgeable in supply chain management, inventory control, and transportation regulations. Logistics professionals must also be able to work with clients to ensure that goods are delivered on time and in the most cost-effective manner. With the increasing demand for efficient and cost-effective transportation, logistics professionals will be in high demand.

[Education Paths]
1. Business Administration: Business administration degrees provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to manage and lead organizations. This degree path is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in management, finance, marketing, or human resources. Developing trends in business administration include the use of technology to streamline processes, the use of data analytics to make informed decisions, and the use of artificial intelligence to automate tasks.

2. Computer Science: Computer science degrees provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to develop and maintain computer systems. This degree path is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in software engineering, web development, or data science. Developing trends in computer science include the use of machine learning to automate tasks, the use of cloud computing to store and process data, and the use of blockchain technology to secure data.

3. Urban Planning: Urban planning degrees provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to design and develop cities and towns. This degree path is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in urban design, architecture, or public policy. Developing trends in urban planning include the use of green infrastructure to reduce environmental impacts, the use of smart technology to improve city services, and the use of public-private partnerships to fund projects.

4. Architecture: Architecture degrees provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to design and construct buildings. This degree path is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in architecture, interior design, or landscape architecture. Developing trends in architecture include the use of sustainable materials to reduce environmental impacts, the use of 3D printing to create custom designs, and the use of virtual reality to visualize projects.