In early April, WVU Tech students made the trip to Charlottesville, Virginia to compete at the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 2014 Virginias Student Conference.
The WVU Tech steel bridge team finished third overall and placed first in the lightness category. The 6-member team constructed their bridge in 22 minutes and 48 seconds and WVU Tech’s entry was one of only three bridges to pass the post-construction load test. The team plans to set up the winning bridge in the engineering building.
“Everybody worked hard and proved that we are able to compete with bigger schools. It’s a good feeling to be able to compete at that level and know that your work stands for itself,” said WVU Tech’s steel bridge team captain, Jacob Harper.
WVU Tech’s survey team placed second in the surveying competition, competing against six other schools. Armed only with a surveying rod, total station, calculator and paper and pencil, the team conducted a timed survey off a single given point. Judges determined winners based on measurement accuracy.
“Placing in this competition shows how WVU Tech’s Civil Engineering program is preparing its students for future careers,” said WVU Tech survey team member, Rachel Facemire. “I would also encourage any student, no matter what their major, to join the ASCE program.”
For more information, check out Golden Bears Set to Compete in the ASCE 2014 Virginias Conference.