Garver structural engineers collaborate with Corgan to deliver AIA-accredited course for designers and architects

On July 30, 2024, at Corgan’s Dallas headquarters, and virtually on August 1, 2024, Garver Structural Engineering Practice Leader Ian Babcock, PE, and Houston Structural Engineering Practice Leader Sarah Briscoe, PE, teamed up with leading architecture and planning firm Corgan to deliver an American Institute of Architects (AIA) accredited course tailor-made for designers and architects with zero to seven years of experience.

Corgan Senior Lighting Designer and Senior Associate Michael Janicek, IES, first identified the need for designers and architects to better understand the crucial role structural engineers play in ensuring successful project outcomes. Motivated by this insight, Janicek proposed the idea to Corgan University, humorously dubbing the course “Structures for Dummies.” He then reached out to Babcock, who, along with Briscoe, enthusiastically embraced the idea. Together, they developed Fundamentals of Structural Engineering: Insights for Designers & Architects, an AIA-accredited course designed to bridge the knowledge gap between architectural design and structural engineering.

This 75-minute course, followed by a 15-minute Q&A, focuses on fostering collaboration between architects, designers, and structural engineers. It emphasizes the critical importance of effective communication between these teams to improve project outcomes. Participants gain key insights into how building use and occupancy impact structural loading and design criteria. They also learn to identify fundamental structural elements and systems, and they develop an understanding of structural design limitations, capacity considerations, and serviceability.

During both the in-person and virtual sessions, Babcock and Briscoe brought the course content to life with engaging visual presentations, interactive structural models, and an unexpected but highly effective teaching prop: dried spaghetti, which was used to demonstrate stresses on beams and columns. By incorporating real-world examples from both current projects and historical references, they provided valuable context for the technical material. They also engaged the audience through polls and other interactive elements, further enhancing participants' understanding.

Post-course feedback confirmed the course’s success, with participants rating the session’s value at 4.9 out of 5 (from a five-star rating) and the quality of instructors at 5. Participants expressed strong support for continuing the course at Corgan University, praising the clarity of the demonstrations, the approachable presentation of complex material, and the practical insights shared by the instructors.

Building on the success of Fundamentals of Structural Engineering, Corgan has already requested that Babcock and Briscoe develop an advanced course. “It was an honor to be invited to teach at Corgan,” Babcock remarked. “Working alongside Sarah and engaging with such talented designers and architects was a pleasure. We’re excited to continue this partnership and create even more educational opportunities for the next generation of professionals.”

Babcock and Briscoe plan to offer Fundamentals of Structural Engineering and future AIA-accredited courses to other firms seeking to enrich their teams’ knowledge. “Teaching at Corgan University has allowed us to explore new ways of sharing our expertise to improve the industry and contribute to public safety,” said Briscoe. “We’re grateful for the opportunity and admire Corgan’s commitment to continuous learning—something we value deeply as well.”

With a combined 38 years of structural engineering experience, Babcock and Briscoe bring a high level of expertise to their projects and client partnerships. Babcock is licensed in 19 states, while Briscoe is licensed in six and has extensive experience across structural systems including reinforced concrete, structural steel, and wood framing.

For more information on bringing AIA-accredited courses to your firm, please contact Ian Babcock or Sarah Briscoe.