When deciding on an undergraduate major at Texas A&M, Astrid Bjoern Doennem ‘21 wanted to find a program where she could work in building design. This led her to the Department of Multidisciplinary Engineering and a degree in architectural engineering. She believes that her experience in multidisciplinary engineering at Texas A&M University set her on a path to success in future projects, including the opportunity to work on one of the world’s most iconic buildings — the Sydney Opera House.
This past summer, Doennem participated in the Multidisciplinary Australian Danish Exchange (MADE) by the Opera House Exchange Program in Sydney, Australia. MADE was established in 2013 to honor the multidisciplinary spirit of the Sydney Opera House.
A current graduate student at The Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Doennem had the opportunity to participate in the program, which sends five Danish students in the fields of engineering, design, and architecture to solve a multidisciplinary challenge within the Opera House, recognized as a World Heritage Site. The Opera House is known for “its unparalleled design and construction; its exceptional engineering achievements and technological innovation,” according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Doennem states that this level of achievement would not have been possible without collaboration between disciplines.
Throughout the 6-week program, students participated in a variety of tasks and activities, including master classes with architectural companies Steensen Varming and Arup. Doennem and her team’s main project focused on the adaptation of the Opera House’s central passage to create a more welcoming design that optimizes space. The project culminated with Doennem and her teammates presenting their work in the Joern Utzon room of the Opera House, named after its designer.
I feel as if I chose the path that prepared me the best for the truly interdisciplinary work required for successful projects.
“While it was a difficult task, and I had a lot to learn from mentors and other disciplines, I feel as if my studies in multidisciplinary engineering had prepared me well,” noted Doennem.
“Having a former student selected for the last MADE program cohort is significant because 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of the ‘people’s house’,” said Filza Walters, an architectural engineering professor of practice at Texas A&M. The Sydney Opera House is one of Walters’ favorite memorable buildings to visit and experience. “Her participation is a testament to Astrid, her team and how the architectural engineering program is preparing students to make a global impact.”
Building a Strong Foundation:
While at Texas A&M, Doennem majored in architectural engineering on the structural building systems track. She believes that the well-roundedness of her undergraduate education has set her up for success on future projects.
“My degree allowed me to combine mechanical, structural and electrical courses within multiple engineering departments and incorporate construction science, management, leadership and architectural courses. I feel as if I chose the path that prepared me the best for the truly interdisciplinary work required for successful projects,” said Doennem.
Toward the end of their degree, architectural engineering students have the opportunity to work on a year-long capstone design project. This was a highlight of Doennem’s time at Texas A&M. For the project, Doennem and a group of four other students were able to design a community center in Houston, along with guidance from faculty and industry partners.
“Applying and combining knowledge from previous courses to a larger scale project was incredibly fun, and I also learned a lot of new things,” she said.
After graduating from Texas A&M, Doennem continued her studies at DTU, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in architectural engineering. Her master’s thesis focuses on “Optimizing Design for Disassembly of Timber Structures.” In addition, Doennem works part-time for Ramboll in their International Project Consultancy Department, where she assists with project management tasks.
“Stay curious and engaged,” Doennem urges current and future students. “Show up positive to the opportunities that exist. Do your best where you are, and it will take you where you want to be.”