The American Concrete Institute (ACI) TIU Student Chapter, in collaboration with the Civil Engineering Department at Tishk International University (TIU), successfully conducted an insightful seminar titled “Modern Methods of Construction” (MMC). Held on December 23rd at the TIU Erbil Campus, the event brought together aspiring engineers and faculty members to explore the future of the construction industry.
The seminar featured Mr. Mabast Ali, a distinguished Senior Structural Engineer with an MSc with Honours in Structural and Building Products Engineering. With over six years of international experience working on high-profile projects across the UK, Scandinavia, and the Baltics, Mr. Ali provided a bridge between academic theory and global industry standards.
Key Highlights of the Seminar
The session focused on shifting the industry away from traditional, labor-intensive practices toward more efficient, technology-driven approaches. Key topics included:
• Off-site Manufacturing: The benefits of modular and pre-cast construction in improving quality control and reducing project timelines.
• Digital Innovation: The integration of BIM (Building Information Modeling) coordination and digital design workflows to minimize errors and enhance collaboration.
• Structural Excellence: Technical insights into steel-concrete composite systems, structural connections, and fire design.
• Automation in Construction: How automation is being leveraged to improve site safety and construction quality.
Empowering the Next Generation
During the event, Mr. Ali shared practical insights from his on-site experience, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in a rapidly evolving field. Students had the opportunity to engage in a dynamic Q&A session, discussing the challenges of implementing these modern methods within the local engineering landscape.
The Civil Engineering Department continues to prioritize hands-on learning and professional development, ensuring that TIU remains at the forefront of engineering education in the region.