Structural Engineers to explore engineering with students

The Des Plaines Public Library has scheduled an Open House for Saturday, October 13, 2012 from 12:00 - 4:00 pm at 1501 Ellinwood Street, Des Plaines IL. This program includes activities that are free and open to the public.  The target audience is 3-8 grades, though high school students and parents will come away with an appreciation and understanding of engineering. You are invited to explore engineering with members of the Chicagoland engineering community. This event marks the 4th year of this event with over 400 visitors participating in 2011.

The Expo will feature interactive displays and presentations that are fun and educational, designed to enhance children's interest in math, science, and of course engineering.  

The science/tech and engineering program is a joint effort among professional engineering and scientific societies, area national laboratories and businesses.

Structural engineers Bob Johnson, Chas Hague, Terrence Lindsay, Sapan Trivedi and others are expected to introduce budding young engineers to standing room only at the Structural Engineers Association of Illinois (SEAOI) exhibit.

Mr. Johnson's structural engineering models and 'toys' provide an enriching hands-on practical application of structural engineering principles. You can expect a lively exchange between Johnson and the students as he delves into engineering principles explaining how Chicago skyscrapers stand tall.

Mr. Hague's display on bridges provides students and adults insight into their design.

4,500 Years of Structural Engineering  (In 45 Minutes)

Brian Dekker will present a very special lecture in addition to the structural engineers hands-on exhibits. From the Great Pyramid of Giza to the Burj Khalifa, structural engineering has experienced a lot of change in the last 4,500 years. The ancient Egyptians knew very little about material science and structural analysis.  Now, we perform complex structural analysis using computers. With modern materials such as high-strength concrete and steel, we can now design buildings that dwarf the size of the pyramids. Come listen to hear how structural engineering has evolved. 

This 'EXPO' is anextraordinary opportunity to introduce students of all ages and their parents to the current state of technology and advances being made throughout the engineering industry.  

For more information, visit dppl.org or call (847) 827-5551. For SEAOI news visit seaoi.org.