The Student Steel Bridge Competition (SSBC) Team Engagement Award. recognizes teams that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to building a diverse team, creating an inclusive environment, and appreciating the value of remarkable individuals working together to succeed. It celebrates formidable teams of smart people who draw from a broad array of backgrounds and experiences.
These backgrounds and experiences also may be very diverse. Your team will embrace the participation of all students regardless of race; color; religion or faith; sex; or the many other characteristics listed in the Competition Rules. Beyond that, some of your teammates may be just starting their undergraduate careers, while others may be on the cusp of entering professional practice with an advanced degree. Some may study topics outside engineering. Perhaps some demonstrate a remarkable commitment to the team by participating while working full-time. Still others may juggle family life and build practice sessions, or be dedicated to following their own non-traditional educational path.
By creating an inclusive environment, you will benefit not just this year, but you will also sow the seeds for the future success of your team as you cultivate new leaders and establish a culture and processes to maximize participation and innovation.
The winning team will be awarded an AISC Student Steel Bridge Competition Scholarship. AISC will provide $2,000 in scholarship funds to a student or students of the team's choosing for the upcoming academic year. The winning student(s) must be named by September 1, 2025.
REQUIREMENTS
The basis for this award is a one- to two-page written narrative that details how the team benefited from its efforts toward equity and diversity during recruiting, training, and while working together to design and create the best bridge they can.
All teams that compete at a regional competition are eligible for this award; participation is not mandatory and will have no effect on scoring and other facets of the competition. Entries must be received before 5:00 p.m. EDT on March 31, 2025 to be considered. The winner will be selected by the Rules Committee and announced by April 28, 2025. The winning team will receive an invitation to the national finals.