I hope you're enjoying a fun and relaxing summer! I'd like to share a glimpse of the incredible impact your generosity continues to have on students and educators.

Thanks to donors like you, the AISC Education Foundation was able to play a bigger role than ever before in this year's Student Steel Bridge Competition, providing scholarships and grants totaling $26,000. These awards will equip hardworking future engineers with resources to bolster their teams and invest in their education.

The Foundation awards funds to not only the top performers, but also the teams who show spirited sportsmanship, commit to creative approaches to SSBC rules and challenges, and dedicate themselves to year-over-year improvement. With your help, we supported seven outstanding teams at the 2025 national finals, May 30–31 in Ames, Iowa.

This year's John M. Yadlosky Most Improved Team Award, which included a $2,000 grant, went to Clemson University, who rebuilt their steel bridge team from the ground up after disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic cost them critical momentum and institutional knowledge.

"Restarting the team post-COVID wasn't easy, but this grant from AISC [and the Education Foundation], and the recognition through the Yadlosky Award, is a powerful affirmation of their hard work, resilience, and passion for steel bridge design," said Weichiang Pang, PhD, Clemson's steel bridge faculty advisor. "After the setback of last year's bridge failing the load test, our students came back with a deep commitment to learning and improving. We're incredibly grateful for AISC's support, which has made a real difference in their growth and confidence."

We continue to be amazed by what these students achieve each year. Their drive, teamwork, and innovation are exactly what the structural steel industry needs—and your support plays a direct role in that. Thank you for choosing to invest in our industry's future changemakers.

I look forward to keeping you updated on the difference your gift has made--stay tuned for your fall Impact Update!

Sincerely,

Maria Mnookin
Director of Foundation Programs
American Institute of Steel Construction
[email protected]