In an impressive feat of engineering prowess, the Steel Bridge Team has secured first place overall for the second consecutive year! The Student Steel Bridge Competition, an annual challenge tasking student teams with crafting a scale-model steel bridge, involves meticulous fabrication planning and timed assembly, culminating in load testing and aesthetic evaluation.
But that's not all—the success doesn't end there. Our GeoWall team has also emerged triumphant, claiming the top spot for the second year running. The GeoWall competition challenges participants to craft a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) retaining wall using paper reinforcement affixed to a posterboard facing. The winning design must efficiently support retained soil and design loads while utilizing the least amount of reinforcement—a true test of ingenuity and efficiency.
While our Concrete Canoe presentations secured a commendable second place, the journey to success was not without its challenges. Despite narrowly missing out on a top-three ranking overall, Caleb Dirckx and Connor Spaeth's dedication and hard work propelled them to an impressive placement. It's worth noting that this marks our first year since the pre-COVID era in which our canoe has been deemed seaworthy and capable of completing the race portions of the competition—an achievement in itself.
These victories stand as a testament to the tireless efforts of our teams, showcasing not only their technical expertise but also their resilience in the face of adversity. As we celebrate these remarkable accomplishments, we look forward to continued success and innovation in future competitions.
Photo Credit: Photos were submitted by the members of various teamsÂ