Kurt Phipps
Summary
Structural Engineering graduate student with a strong background in structural analysis, building evaluation, construction engineering, and field investigations. Proficient in developing analytical models using ETABS, RISA-3D, SAFE, and Enercalc. Skilled in preparing ASCE 7 load calculations, evaluating retrofit solutions, and reviewing shop drawings. A unique blend of analytical problem-solving skills and practical construction knowledge enhances the ability to document structural conditions through comprehensive engineering investigation reports. Eager to leverage expertise in an entry-level position within Structural Diagnostics or Forensic Engineering.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Virginia Tech
- Led Civil Engineering Materials laboratory sections covering structural material behavior including steel, concrete, timber, polymers, stress-strain relationships, fatigue, and material performance.
- Mentored undergraduate engineering students while assisting with laboratory instruction and grading.
Structural Engineering Intern
Ehlert-Bryan, Inc.
06.2026 - 08.2026
- Developed ETABS analytical models directly from structural and architectural drawings for commercial building projects.
- Created comprehensive ASCE 7-22 load development spreadsheets incorporating dead, live, roof live, wind, seismic, and snow loading for structural analysis.
- Performed structural evaluations and retrofit analyses of existing steel framing systems using RISA-3D and RISA Section to support rooftop mechanical equipment installations.
- Designed wall foundations in Enercalc using reactions obtained from structural analysis models.
- Exported ETABS models into SAFE to support reinforced concrete slab analysis and foundation workflows.
- Reviewed structural steel and concrete shop drawings to verify compliance with engineering intent and project specifications.
- Conducted field investigations of existing structures, documented observed conditions, and prepared engineering investigation reports supporting structural evaluations and rehabilitation decisions.
- Collaborated with licensed structural engineers throughout project development, from structural modeling through field observation and design coordination.
Structural Engineering Intern
AECOM
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Prepared structural calculations, technical documentation, and engineering design deliverables for bridge and culvert improvement projects.
- Conducted site investigations documenting existing structural conditions through photographs, sketches, and engineering reports used during project development.
- Participated in interdisciplinary coordination meetings while supporting transportation infrastructure design projects.
Project Engineer Intern
Joseph B. Fay Construction (S&B USA)
06.2023 - 08.2023
- Supported construction operations on the Big Beaver Bridge Replacement Project, gaining firsthand experience in structural steel erection, sequencing, and field coordination.
- Reviewed structural drawings, completed quantity takeoffs, processed purchase orders, and coordinated daily construction activities.
- Developed a practical understanding of constructability, field problem solving, and how engineering designs are translated into successful construction.
Structural Engineering Research Assistant
Bucknell University
- Investigated vibration behavior of a cantilever grandstand through experimental testing and analytical modeling.
- Developed SAP2000 models to compare analytical predictions with measured structural response.
Education
M.S. - Structural Engineering & Materials
Virginia Tech
12-2026
B.S. - Civil Engineering & Bachelors of Management
Bucknell University
05-2025
Skills
- ETABS
- RISA-3D
- RISA Section
- SAFE
- SAP2000
- Enercalc
- Bluebeam Revu
- AutoCAD
- Mathcad
- MATLAB
- Microsoft Excel
- MicroStation
Certification
Engineer-In-Training
- Passed FE-Civil : January 2024
Leadership & Honors
- Bucknell Division I Wrestling — EIWA Champion (2025), Three-time NCAA Qualifier, Four-time NWCA Scholar All-American, Three-time Team Captain,
- Team USA Representative — 2024 Pan-American Wrestling Champion
- Vice President of Chi Epsilon Civil Engineering Honor Society
- Bucknell University Department of Athletics Class of 2025 Scholar-Athlete Award
- Norwin High School Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee Class of 2025
Timeline
Structural Engineering Intern
Ehlert-Bryan, Inc.
06.2026 - 08.2026
Structural Engineering Intern
AECOM
06.2024 - 08.2024
Project Engineer Intern
Joseph B. Fay Construction (S&B USA)
06.2023 - 08.2023
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Virginia Tech
Structural Engineering Research Assistant
Bucknell University
M.S. - Structural Engineering & Materials
Virginia Tech
B.S. - Civil Engineering & Bachelors of Management
Bucknell University