The competition challenges student teams to design, fabricate and construct a scale-model steel bridge that spans a simulated river or wetland crossing. This year’s competition site was modeled after the South Skunk River in Story County, Iowa.

The Quinnipiac team’s bridge measured more than 19 feet in length and was engineered to support over 2,500 pounds, meeting strict requirements related to design constraints, load conditions, and construction limitations—such as prohibitions on building within the sandbar.

Despite being a first-time participant, the Quinnipiac team earned high praise for its innovation and performance. The team’s bridge was among the fastest to construct, one of the lightest in the competition, and delivered exceptional lateral stability.

Out of 17 universities competing, Quinnipiac won first place in aesthetics — a category judged on balance, proportion, elegance and finish, along with a visually compelling and technically detailed poster presentation.

Leading the team were seniors Abby Palmgren, project manager, and Lauren Roeger, head designer. Additional team members included Tim Cooper, Andrew Jones, Mike Maiuzzo, Kevin Clarke, Anthony Votto, Kyle Townsend and Jayden Urena. Several other students also contributed to the design and fabrication process throughout the academic year.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of our student team and the invaluable guidance of our fabrication specialist, Dennis Hanlon,” said SSBC Faculty Adviser Priscilla Fonseca, associate professor of civil engineering. “Dennis dedicated countless hours to mentoring the students in welding and fabrication techniques.”

Fonseca also acknowledged the crucial support of Taskin Kocak, dean of the School of Computing and Engineering, who provided essential financial resources to ensure the team’s successful participation.