UW-Platteville’s Steel Bridge Team recently competed at the Western Great Lakes Student Steel Bridge 2024 Regional Competition, held in Chicago, IL. They scored second place overall against fourteen other teams, advancing to the national competition. They also placed in three award categories, earning first place in stiffness and structural efficiency, and third place in cost estimation.
“Observing the remarkable achievement of my student team at the regional competition filled me with profound pride in their dedication, innovation and hard work,” said Dr. Amr El Ragaby, the team’s faculty advisor. “Experiencing the moment when their efforts blossomed into success, propelling them to compete at the national level, brought me unmatched joy. Knowing that the guidance, education and training they received from all faculty in CEE played a pivotal role in nurturing their brilliance and empowering young minds to reach new heights was truly fulfilling.”
Steel Bridge competitions involve students planning, designing, building and demonstrating 20-foot steel bridge models. Teams must also determine how to construct their bridge efficiently and effectively, utilizing building techniques and materials that will save on both time and money, while still being able to support 2,500 pounds and fit the problem statement requirements.
“Every single one of us has dedicated more time than we may be willing to admit to the success of our team at competition,” the president of the team, Zach Maly said. “Seeing it finally pay off; I, along with everyone else, was elated. All the hours, all the struggle, it was all worth it. Looking ahead to nationals, I have great confidence in the ability of this team. I am so proud and fortunate to be a part of the Steel Bridge Team at University of Wisconsin-Platteville.”
UW-Platteville will compete at Louisiana Tech University on May 31.