One of the ABET Inc. civil engineering program requirements is for the curriculum to prepare graduates to design a system, component, or process in at least two civil engineering contexts. Additionally, ABET Inc. requires the curriculum to include a culminating major engineering design experience that incorporates appropriate engineering standards and multiple constraints, and is based on the knowledge and skills acquired in earlier course work. While there are various ways to accomplish these requirements, many programs use a capstone design project or experience. The paper outlines how the civil engineering program at the XXXXXX uses a real-world design-build project that requires students to engage with multiple stakeholders, design a bridge with several constraints, and then construct the bridge. The paper outlines the entire capstone process from conception to completion, with emphasis on problem definition, development of alternatives, interactions with stakeholders, designing under real constraints, construction, and project management. The design-build capstone provides an authentic and exciting design challenge that motivates students and promotes their learning and development as engineers.
Colonel Brad Wambeke is currently the Deputy Department Head of the Civil & Environmental Engineering Department at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. He received his B.S. from South Dakota State University; M.S. from the University of Minnesota; and Ph.D. from North Carolina State University. He is a member of ASEE and is a registered Professional Engineer in Missouri. His primary research interests include construction engineering, lean construction, and engineering education.
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