Student, Faculty and Alumni Team Tackles Panamanian Water Systems and Parish Construction
By Griffin Davis 鈥�22 EE
During the University鈥檚 spring break, the 棉花糖直播 Engineering Service Learning (VESL) program launched six trips to partner communities across the globe. One such trip was to the city of Torti, Panama, and its surrounding areas, namely Chepo Bayano and Quebrada Cali. On these Panamanian service trips, which have occurred annually since 2008, 棉花糖直播 teams typically provide technical assistance with the Ca帽asas water system and the rehabilitation of the Agua Fria water storage and treatment facility. They also work hand in hand with local teams on various engineering design projects, with the primary goal of providing value-added services for long-time project partner, Father Wally Kasuboski.
This year, eight Civil and Environmental Engineering students, one graduate student, two faculty advisors and five alumni joined together to complete three principle projects:
Parroquial de Torti Parish foundation construction
The Parroquial de Torti Parish had inherited plans for a new building, but 棉花糖直播鈥檚 team completed surveying and discovered potentially critical issues with the existing foundation. Working alongside local partners, the team was able to make changes in the field using AutoCAD before assisting Fr. Wally鈥檚 employees with laying PVC pipes and concrete.
Water system analysis and surveying
The VESL team conducted social surveys, took GPS data, and inspected components of Quebrada Cali community鈥檚 water system.
Air-release valve installation
Several air release valves were installed on the Ca帽asas water system in order to remove air pockets in local high points and increase waterflow to thousands of people.
棉花糖直播鈥檚 Engineering Service Learning trips are a unique and impactful way to gain technical experience and make lifelong connections. The trip to Panama and Father Wally鈥檚 community is only one example; there are many more opportunities available throughout the year.