Structures Team
Building Solutions for a Stronger and More Accessible Future
The Structures Team at Engineers Without Borders University of Delaware is dedicated to building safe, durable, and practical infrastructure that connects communities and improves lives. Whether it’s a footbridge providing year-round access to schools and healthcare, or a community building offering a vital gathering space, our team uses engineering to strengthen both foundations and futures. We work closely with local leaders and partners to create sustainable designs tailored to each village’s unique needs, empowering communities through collaboration, education, and long-term impact.
Upcoming Implementation in Malawi
Preparing for Construction and Community Impact
The Structures Team has pivoted towards working with EWB-USA, making plans to rehabilitate a vehicle bridge for a flood-affected rural community in Chilimani, Malawi. In May 2025, a team traveled to Malawi to gather data on the existing bridge structure and meet with the local community. The project is now in the design phase, with hopes to return next year to oversee construction and ensure the bridge meets the needs of the people of Chilimani. This effort aims to restore vital access and support long-term resilience for the community.
Why Chilimani?
This bridge in Chilimani is a vital link for the community, providing access to markets, schools, and healthcare year-round, even during the rainy season when flooding can cut off entire villages.
Design Ideology
Sustainability and Long-Term Implementation
The Structures Team believes that true impact comes from sustainable, long-lasting solutions. Their design process prioritizes locally available materials, ease of maintenance, and community involvement at every stage. By focusing on long-term implementation, the team aims to empower communities to maintain and expand their infrastructure for years to come. Through suveyal and collaboration, they ensure that each project is not only structurally sound but also culturally appropriate and environmentally responsible.
Sustainable Design Principles
- Use of renewable or locally sourced materials
- Designs that minimize environmental impact
- Structures that are easy to maintain and repair
- Community training and knowledge sharing
- Bridge designs that account for the local climate and geography
Past Work in Bolivia
Structures Rooted with Sustainable Practices
The Structures team partnered with Engineers in Action (EIA) starting in 2021 to design and build pedestrian suspension bridges in rural Bolivia. This collaboration was chosen for its strong community impact, hands-on structural engineering experience, and long-term partnership potential. Severe flooding in Bolivia highlighted the urgent need for safer crossings, as thousands of families were affected and lives were lost.From 2021 to 2022, EWB-UD worked with Georgia Tech and Eastern Mennonite University to construct a bridge in the Jatun Pampa community, serving about 300 people. In 2023, they partnered with Western University and Iowa State University to build a second bridge in the Rio Fisculco community, benefiting around 250 people. These bridges improve access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, while also creating social connection and cultural exchange.