How’s the air quality up in Eureka/Arcata? Sounds like a winner for him too - given the location?
I would apply for the major I want and not a different, less impacted one at whatever school.
On the flip side, engineering is a difficult major with the highest level of change/drop out rates - and it’s very math intensive - so if he struggles on tests, etc. So you want to ensure they have an alternative major that suits him, wherever he goes, in case he needs to pivot.
It’s great he loves Reno - and I agree, it’s a fine school.
And there are smaller ones, like NM M&T or Montana Tech, if the student prefers small - although it’d be a more local student body most likely.
Sounds like you’re dialed in very well.
Best of luck.