Events and Stories AT Engineering SRU

 The interdisciplinary engineering design team is collaborating on integrating cement-based composites shotcreted on 3D printed frames, aiming to produce highly resilient structural components capable of withstanding various loads. Specifically, these composite materials are anticipated to demonstrate exceptional resistance to both lateral loads, such as wind forces, and gravitational loads, including self-weight and snow loads. Through innovative engineering and material design, the combined strength and durability of the composite materials and 3D printed frames are expected to offer robust structural support, ensuring the integrity and stability of the constructed infrastructure across diverse loading conditions. 

 Project Description: Addition project proposes a $200,000 expansion to create an Educational Classroom and Makerspace, addressing the lack of STEAM education opportunities for children in rural western Pennsylvania. The addition includes a 1,920 sq. ft. space with a basement to host weekly Tech Tinkering and STEAM classes, equipped with facilities for project-based learning such as 3-D printers and robotics. The need for STEAM programs arises due to limited offerings in schools and financial constraints on families. Objectives include fostering a natural learning environment, serving as a central hub for STEAM activities, and supporting teachers in growth mindset and educational technologies. KiP aims to provide children with exposure to various career paths, nurture innovation and creativity, and align with Pennsylvania's new STEAM standards. The facility will accommodate group visits, classes, and camps, ensuring accessibility for all children and fostering community partnerships with universities and local organizations. Future plans include expansion to include high school programs and additional community engagement initiatives.  

 The Society of Women in Engineering (SWE) at Slippery Rock University recently held a hands-on woodshop training for our young engineering students! 

This event gave students the opportunity to learn essential woodworking skills, build confidence, and explore the practical side of engineering. It's inspiring to see these future engineers gaining real-world experience and empowering themselves for the challenges ahead.

  We’re excited to announce the official launch of the American Concrete Institute (ACI) Student Club at Slippery Rock University in Fall 2024!  To kick things off, the first concrete workshop, where students got creative and crafted unique items like flowerpots, was held as a joint event with the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and ACI.  Collaboration among engineering student clubs is key to the success of our engineering students, fostering teamwork and innovation. Stay tuned for more exciting events! 

 The Engineering Game Night was a fantastic opportunity for students and faculty to come together, unwind, and celebrate the end of the semester in a fun and engaging environment. Hosted by the engineering department, the event featured a variety of games and activities that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. With snacks and refreshments provided through department support, students had 

SWE at SRU held its inaugural general body meeting of the semester. The meeting began with a welcome from the e-board, followed by introductions of the new e-board members and their respective roles. The primary focus of the meeting was to introduce SWE as an organization to new members, highlighting our mission, values, and upcoming events. Members had the opportunity to ask questions, share their thoughts on upcoming events, and contribute their own ideas for the club. We were delighted to welcome nineteen new and returning members to the SWE community.

 The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is an active student organization with over 30 members starting at Fall 2023, dedicated to fostering an inclusive, empowering, and supportive environment for all engineering students, particularly women pursuing careers in engineering. Today, the SWE chapter at SRU welcomes all engineering students to join and be part of this vibrant community. New SWE board members Fall 2024!!! 

Turner Construction Company joined us at SRU this August, offering invaluable insights and internship opportunities for our civil engineering students!  Their visit bridged the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, helping both juniors and seniors explore their future careers. A big thank you to Turner for inspiring and recruiting the next generation of engineers!

Additionally, Turner’s Pittsburgh office brings extensive local knowledge and experience to construction projects, ensuring high-quality results tailored to the region's needs.

"Attending the Engineer's Week Awards Banquet was an excellent experience. The Pittsburgh section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is an impressive group of brilliant and hard-working individuals. Networking with academic and industry professionals allowed me to learn a lot of invaluable information. The insight I gained into the civil engineering field will help me throughout my educational and professional career. I look forward to participating in the American Society of Civil Engineers club here at Slippery Rock and attending future ASCE events. "

 The Engineering Dialogue Series recently collaborated with Gateway Engineers to host an industry connection and networking event for students. During the event, a distinguished SRU civil engineering alum shared insights into the various projects he has undertaken since graduating from SRU. Gateway Engineers, a renowned civil engineering and consulting firm, played a pivotal role in the event. With strategically located offices in Pittsburgh, PA, Butler, PA, and Selma, NC, Gateway Engineers boasts expertise across all stages of project development, ranging from initial concept to final completion. Their comprehensive services include Project Management, Surveying, Site Civil, Geotechnical, Landscape Architecture, Municipal Engineering, Transportation, Structural Engineering, Construction Administration, and Inspection/Testing. With a legacy dating back to 1954, Gateway Engineers continues to lead the industry with its unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.