Published on 30 May 2024
The University of Cambridge's Engineering Department is launching an innovative project to actively promote sustainable offsite construction. This initiative will equip students with crucial project management skills while immersing them in modern digital construction technologies. It will also underscore the critical importance of scheduling, teamwork, financial control, health and safety, and the practical aspects of engineering theory.
The "Sustainable Offsite Construction" project proposed by Laing O’Rourke Associate Professor Dr Brian Sheil on behalf of the Construction Group, involves third-year students building a 13-meter bridge using modular components at an onsite location near the Eddington campus in Cambridge. The bridge will be based on Laing O'Rourke's state-of-the-art modular 'Digital Bridges' using reusable precast reinforced concrete, emphasising environmental and financial sustainability.
We are thrilled to offer students the opportunity to participate in the 'Sustainable Offsite Construction' project, which promotes sustainable construction practices and fosters industry collaboration and real-world learning.
Dr Brian Sheil
The teaching format involves problem-based learning with minilectures, practical demonstration sessions, build sessions and teaching and training delivered by industry partners. Students will have the opportunity to work with skilled staff from the contractor (Laing O'Rourke), the consulting engineers (Ramboll), Steel fabricators (Severfield) and technology experts (Trimble) to gain hands-on experience.
The project's coursework and assessment are multimodal and include an interim client interview, where students will discuss the construction plan, program, costing, environmental, health and safety issues, and their roles within the construction team to recognise the importance of communication skills in industry.
The initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of engineers proficient in construction practices and committed to sustainable and innovative solutions. The Sustainable Offsite Construction project will commence in the upcoming academic year, marking a significant step towards integrating sustainable engineering practices into the university's curriculum and industry partnerships while also aligning with the broader goals of the Laing O'Rourke Centre.
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