AUS graduate student receives prestigious ACI Foundation Fellowship to pursue career goals in construction 3D printing

With ambition and determination, American University of Sharjah (AUS) graduate student Habibelrahman Hassan has taken a significant stride towards becoming an expert in construction 3D printing upon his selection as the Middle East and North Africa Fellow 2023-2024 by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) Foundation.

Having graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at AUS with a strong interest in additive construction, he applied to the AUS Master of Science in Civil Engineering program and the  ACI Fellowship.

“It is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements happening in the concrete industry. The fellowship offers an excellent opportunity to attend three ACI concrete conventions, which will give me access to a global concrete gathering of experts and researchers from around the world. I will have the chance to attend the 3D printing committee meetings, network with professionals, learn about new opportunities, and participate in technical and research sessions,” said Hassan.

Following a rigorous four-month selection process that involved graduate students from universities all around the Middle East and North Africa region, the one-year fellowship aligns with Hassan's interests and career goals.

“The fellowship entails an educational stipend of $10,000, which will allow me to invest in the necessary resources and equipment to further my research and expand my knowledge in 3D printing in construction. I am confident that this fellowship will significantly contribute to my growth and development as a student and young professional,” he said.

Hassan noted that his AUS education has played a significant role in helping him secure this fellowship.

“AUS has provided me with a strong background in civil engineering and has introduced me to advanced concepts and technologies that are relevant to the field. Being an AUS undergraduate, I was able to focus on concrete technology and design through coursework and research projects, which had given me a solid foundation for this fellowship. The faculty and staff in the Department of Civil Engineering have been incredibly supportive in my academic journey, providing guidance and mentoring along the way. I am confident that my education at AUS will continue to aid me in making the most of this fellowship,” said Hassan.

He added: “My primary focus today is on seizing the valuable opportunities provided by this fellowship to develop my skills, expand my professional network and gain insights into the latest industry trends to further advance myself and my career. I aspire to continue my work in the field of 3D printing technology in construction and explore its potential to transform the industry in alignment with the UAE’s vision of becoming a global hub for 3D construction printing. I want to use the knowledge and skills gained through this fellowship and from my AUS education to contribute to the field of civil engineering through research, innovation and collaboration with industry experts.”

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) is a global authority for the development, dissemination and adoption of its consensus-based standards, technical resources, and educational, training and certification programs. The ACI Foundation was established in 1989 as part of ACI’s commitment to support students’ education, research and innovation throughout the concrete industry.

The AUS Department of Civil Engineering is recognized throughout the region for the exceptional education it offers through its undergraduate and graduate programs. AUS is ranked number one (tied) in the UAE and among the top ​200 universities globally for civil and structural engineering, according to QS World University Subject Rankings (202​3​). 

For more information about the Department of Civil Engineering and what it has to offer, visit www.aus.edu/cen/bsce.