To elevate its status on the global stage, the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering and the School of Mining and Petroleum Engineering are setting a new standard with the formation of the Civil Industry Advisory Board (CIAB). This strategic initiative is designed to catapult the department into the forefront of technological advancement in civil engineering, thereby enhancing the capabilities of students, faculty, researchers, and staff and, ultimately, contributing to societal betterment.
The CIAB’s mission is clear: to advance civil engineering education and research. Under the leadership of Chair, Jeff DiBattista, PEng, a distinguished industry member and a steadfast supporter of the Faculty of Engineering, the CIAB aims to foster a dynamic collaboration between industry and academia. DiBattista envisions a board populated by a diverse array of industry leaders, each bringing unique insights to the table. “Interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial for addressing society’s most pressing challenges,” he states. “Our success will hinge on our ability to work together.”
This newly formed board will comprise influential figures from engineering, business, and community sectors, all selected by the Dean of Engineering. The board's role will be pivotal, providing strategic recommendations and essential guidance to enhance the Department’s academic and research programs. Its key responsibilities include shaping academic and research planning, responding to industry trends, creating cooperative education and employment opportunities, modernizing curricula, and advising on both industry challenges and research opportunities.
Amy Yuntong She, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, anticipates that the CIAB will forge robust, long-term industry collaborations. “The high profile of our board members will significantly boost the department’s credibility and visibility, making a substantial impact on the industry’s future,” She explains. “Moreover, it will open doors for students, enhancing their career readiness and fostering their professional growth.”
Equally optimistic is Vera Wanyan Liu, the department's Curriculum Development and Accreditation Specialist. “The CIAB will be instrumental in advancing our curriculum, bringing invaluable practical perspectives to our ongoing program improvements,” Liu notes.
Department Chair Samer Adeeb highlights the CIAB’s transformative potential. “The CIAB will be crucial in positioning our Department at the cutting edge of civil engineering technology,” Adeeb says. “This will empower our students, faculty, and researchers to push the boundaries of innovation and make significant contributions to societal progress.”
As we embark on this ambitious endeavour, we invite you to become a part of the Civil Industry Advisory Board. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of civil engineering education, expand your professional network, and join a dedicated group of industry leaders. With our combined expertise and commitment, we are confident the CIAB will be instrumental in advancing technological innovation and contributing to societal advancement.
To express your interest in joining the CIAB as a volunteer member, please send your resume and a brief cover letter by Monday, September 23, 2024, to Advisory Board Chair, Jeff DiBattista at JDiBattista@dialogdesign.ca. We are seeking to appoint a diverse group of five to seven industry leaders who are passionate about civil engineering, committed to the University of Alberta, and equipped with broad knowledge and insights into the field’s practice and advancement.