experiential learning
Exceptional experiences for students
It's the difference between having an engineering degree and being an engineer. There are things that cannot be learned in a classroom, so Steel Centre students are given exceptional experiences, and go out and conduct research alongside industry partners, even during their undergraduate studies.
Steel Centre students work closely with industry partners throughout their training, so they're familiar with current tools and practices—even communication standards and terminology. They're comfortable with the modern work environment, capable of jumping in on day one, and able to join a team without having to be re-trained.
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Steel Centre students are highly sought-after by industry; the close relationships forged during their education lead to opportunities for employment with a company they're already familiar with. Wherever they go, Steel Centre grads have an impressive portfolio of top-quality education paired with extensive experience in industry.
Steel Centre industry partners
Students work closely with industry partners on real projects. They prepare reports and give presentations to senior-level executives; they get feedback and mentorship from practicing engineers to guide the research process.
Steel Centre OutReach Engineering (SCORE) is a student-run consultancy that takes on real projects alongside industry partners, building authentic mentorship relationships and training students in hands-on engineering.
Click HERE for more S.C.O.R.E. information.
Students are recognized for these additional experiential learning opportunities through the Steel Centre Industry-Ready endorsement. Motivated students complete a series of learning experiences across core areas to develop their abilities outside the traditional curriculum, making them more “Industry-Ready” on day one of their future careers.
Click HERE for more Industry-Ready information.
The Steel Squad offers unique opportunities for undergrads to experience steel construction live and in person: at active job sites, fabrication shops, in engineering offices, and beyond. Complement your studies with membership in a unique group with special access to industry mentorship and exclusive opportunities.
Click HERE for more Steel Squad information and learn how to apply!
Steel for Lunch is a Friday lunchtime series that
explores topics of interest to the steel construction community. Case studies, research presentations, and professional advice are all on the menu. Students and practicing engineers come together to learn and share their experiences first-hand.
Click HERE for more information.
The SuperTour is a chance for students to travel with their professors outside of Alberta and spend a week in an immersive experience that takes them on a comprehensive exploration of cities known for their remarkable structures. This unforgettable journey serves as a foundation for students to witness firsthand the awe-inspiring creations and technological marvels that reshaped the world of engineering.
Click HERE for more information.
The Steel Centre Bridge Team is an extraordinary group of talented individuals with a shared vision of elevating traditional structural engineering boundaries. Their mission is to engineer excellence while fostering a culture of innovation and teamwork that empowers students to excel as the engineers of tomorrow.
Click HERE for more information.
Where are they now?
Amir Jamshidi
PhD (2016) | Engineering Director at Supreme Group
I started with Supreme Group as a Structural Steel Engineer towards the end of my PhD graduation, and in a span of 1.5 years, I was promoted to Engineering Manager and now Engineering Director. I manage all engineers working for Supreme Group in North America and am responsible for resource management while ensuring high quality and integrity for all projects.
I was honoured to be a part of one of the best structural steel engineering programs in North America; it opened a lot of doors for me.
Sassan Moghimi
PhD (2013) | Senior Structural Engineer at Protostatix Engineering Consultants
As Senior Structural Engineer, I design heavy industrial and commercial steel buildings. Throughout my career, I've completed detail design of several multipurpose towers against high wind and/or seismic loads, designed an upgrade system for a new 20+ storey tower on top of an existing five storey concrete podium, performed dynamic analysis and vibration control of different floor systems, and designed a 18,000m2 multi-storey steel building with highly complex and curved geometry.
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My PhD made me ready for my current technical and challenging job by giving me advance knowledge and deep insight in structural engineering, providing me with highly critical and organized thinking, enable me to concentrate on fine details that perfectly match the entire project, confidence of my knowledge and skills, and believing in myself.
Mehdi Dastfan
PhD (2011) | Senior Bridge Engineer at COWI North America, Ltd.
As an international student, studying at the University of Alberta gave me the opportunity to be in touch with some of the Canadian design code contributors. This also helped me to direct my research and contribute to the steel design code (S16). Also the opportunity to present my research in several international conferences helped me to connect with other professionals.
I have been leading the design team in various new bridge design and bridge evaluation projects, including the recently opened river crossing as part of the Northeast Anthony Henday Drive and bridges in segment two of the Southwest Calgary Ring Road.
Graduate Studies (M.Sc., M.Eng.)
Steel Centre students are selected by the professors after admission into a University of Alberta graduate program. If you are interested in joining the Steel Centre, follow the University of Alberta graduate studies application process.
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Undergraduate Studies (B.Sc.)
The primary avenue for undergraduate students to get involved in the Steel Centre is through the Steel Squad, a competitive group selected each Fall. For details and application process, see the Steel Squad page.