Mike Hopple is a fifth year senior at The Pennsylvania State University majoring in Architectural Engineering (AE), a five year professional degree program. Upon graduation, Mike will earn a Bachelor of Architectural Engineering (B.A.E.). However, Mike’s education is not limited to the classroom.

Mike has a diverse work portfolio from unique summer internships and research within the AE department. His first introduction to the AE industry was the summer of 2006 while working for Baker, Ingram Associates, Structural Engineers (http://www.bakeringram.com). Here he learned the basics of steel design and how projects are organized and completed from an engineering point of view. The following summer, Mike was able to work with design and drafting teams while working for TRC Worldwide Engineering Precast Concrete Group (http://www.trcww.com). He has also spent time on the research side of the industry, working in the AE department’s structural laborites during the school year. Structural research includes the testing of masonry walls for shear and flexural strength. These assorted experiences have greatly advanced Mike’s overall knowledge of engineering far more than classroom learning alone.

Mike has also taken the time to give a helping hand to those in need. He has worked closely with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Centre County as part of the building committee. He was also a member of the Penn State Student Chapter Board of Directors acting as Construction Coordinator on a student funded/built home in Philipsburg. He also participated in Collegiate Challenge outside Daytona, Florida in March 2006.

Upon graduation, Mike seeks full-time employment from an innovative structural design firm that encourages professional development through a variety of methods, including continuing education programs.

User Note:

Note: While great efforts have been taken to provide accurate and complete information on the pages of CPEP, please be aware that the information contained herewith is considered a work-in-progress for this thesis project. Modifications and changes related to the original building designs and construction methodologies for this senior thesis project are solely the interpretation of Kate Feato. Changes and discrepancies in no way imply that the original design contained errors or was flawed. Differing assumptions, code references, requirements, and methodologies have been incorporated into this thesis project; therefore, investigation results may vary from the original design.