Future engineers met seasoned professionals when BBM Structural welcomed students from the University of Central Florida’s ASCE Structural Engineering Institute (SEI) Student Chapter for an engaging afternoon of hands-on learning, mentorship, and meaningful connection. The visit was coordinated by Dr. F. Necati Catbas, P.E., a longtime friend of BBM and one of UCF’s leading engineering faculty members.

The afternoon offered students a deeper look into the structural engineering profession—from our office environment to the kinds of complex projects we’re privileged to work on. BBM Project Manager Maggie Kirk gave a detailed presentation on BBM’s work for the Mount Sinai Medical Center Freestanding Emergency Department / Medical Office Building in Westchester, which recently reached its topping-out milestone. Her walkthrough highlighted key structural systems and coordination strategies that helped bring the design to life.

Following the presentation, Principal Bora Erbilen gave students a tour of BBM’s office—including some in-house structural design features like a custom conference table built with structural steel and glass, a reception area with a scaled tilt-up panel, and a chevron frame display complete with design calculations. As noted in Dr. Catbas’ post, the office itself served as a learning tool, showcasing our passion for engineering through physical form.

“The visit was especially meaningful because we were able to meet several UCF graduates across the company, from Principals to Project Engineers,” Dr. Catbas shared. “Thank you BBM Structural for your warm hospitality, your continuous support of UCF, and the impressive work you do.”

We were honored to receive a commemorative plaque from Dr. Catbas and his students in recognition of the visit—and we’re just as grateful for their curiosity, questions, and enthusiasm for the field.

BBM is proud to support future engineers through mentorship, education, and real-world insight. We look forward to continuing our relationship with UCF and inspiring the next generation of structural leaders.