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UHart ASCE/CMAA Student Chapters: A Semester of Industry Engagement and Experiential Learning

November 10, 2026
Submitted By: College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture

The University of Hartford’s American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Student Chapters had a busy and productive Fall 2026 semester, organizing five industry guest lectures and two field trips throughout October and early November.

These activities connected students with practicing professionals, exposed them to real-world engineering and construction challenges, and provided valuable opportunities for hands-on learning, career exploration, and professional networking. The events engaged students across Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, and other disciplines.

Notably, UHart is home to Connecticut’s first CMAA Student Chapter, marking an important milestone in expanding professional development opportunities for construction management students.

Industry Guest Lecture Series

The chapters hosted five guest lectures featuring industry professionals who shared practical insights into engineering design, construction management, emerging technologies, and professional practice.

  • Oct. 14 – AI in Engineering Project Delivery: Thomas Wamser from Tighe & Bond demonstrated how AI-enabled cameras and GIS technology can streamline roadway sign inventory and replacement, using a CTDOT project as a case study.
  • Oct. 21 – Reinforcing Steel Industry 101: Gregory Clauson from CRSI and Ed Wilczynski from Headed Reinforcement Corporation introduced reinforcing steel materials, headed bars, and mechanical couplers. Students examined actual reinforcing bar samples and explored their practical applications.
  • Oct. 26 – Water Industry 101: Anthony Fattorini, Brennan Cummings, and retired UHart Professor Todd Brown discussed water treatment infrastructure, digital twin applications, WaterCAD modeling, emergency infrastructure repairs, and career opportunities in the water industry.
  • Oct. 28 – Construction Project Delivery: Andy Kurjiaka and Emily McGillicuddy from Burns & McDonnell used a real-world transmission line project to explain contracting strategies, basis of design, cost estimating, scheduling, and bidder selection. Students also connected with the speakers about internships and employment opportunities.
  • Nov. 4 – Construction Disputes, Claims & Litigation: Greg Holness, P.E., Esq., from FTI Consulting explored construction claims, mediation, arbitration, and dispute prevention, helping students understand the legal and managerial responsibilities of engineering and construction professionals.

The lecture series consistently encouraged student participation, thoughtful discussions, and connections between classroom concepts and industry practices.

Experiential Learning Through Field Trips

Two field trips provided students with firsthand exposure to major infrastructure construction and hands-on craftsmanship.

  • Oct. 16 – The Moles Student Day, Amtrak Connecticut River Bridge Replacement Project: Nearly 20 students, accompanied by Professors Sussmann and Wang, toured this major infrastructure project. Students explored drilled shaft foundations, bridge piers and abutments, retaining walls, environmental protection measures, and steel plate girder construction while interacting with industry professionals.
  • Oct. 30 – Masonry Design & Construction, International Masonry Training Center, Wallingford:More than 15 Civil Engineering, Construction Management, and Architecture students participated in hands-on brick and concrete masonry unit (CMU) laying alongside skilled union craftworkers. Vinny Ryan, Apprentice Coordinator, and Craig Krupitzer, AIA, Director of Industry Development and Technical Services at IMI, also introduced masonry wall design considerations, including reinforcement, movement joints, thermal bridging, and moisture protection.

Both visits reinforced the importance of connecting engineering and architectural design with construction methods, materials, workmanship, and field practices.

Looking Ahead

Through these seven events, the ASCE/CMAA Student Chapters strengthened connections between the University of Hartford and industry partners while fostering interdisciplinary learning and professional development.

The chapters extend their sincere appreciation to all guest speakers, industry partners, faculty, and participating students for making the semester’s activities successful.

Building on this momentum, the chapters look forward to expanding industry engagement, experiential learning, and professional networking opportunities in spring of 2027.