Wheaton College Alumni Magazine Autumn 2013 | Page 24

Wheaton alumnus Josh Dortzbach ’96 and his team
at Forefront Structural Engineers collaboratively
developed an innovative new solution for a curvilinear
roof structure to float above a proposed new
international terminal located in Dalian, China.

Momentum
by Karen Halvorsen Schreck ’84

Momentum. The word carries connotations of
development and success: We’re gathering
momentum. It also describes the measure of
impetus gained by a moving body—a law of
physics that’s frequently applied by those who
work in the field of engineering.
No wonder, then, that Dr. Dorothy Chappell, dean of natural and social
sciences, uses this word to describe recent developments at Wheaton’s Meyer
Science Center: “There’s a definite momentum right now in the engineering major,
with more emphasis on curriculum, personnel, and networking opportunities.”
This momentum is the response to a clearly articulated need. Students are
expressing increasing interest in Wheaton’s engineering program, a unique
academic path with a rich history and diverse possibilities for the future.
Wheaton’s engineering program, also known as a 3-2 program, has been
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Alumni engineers involved
in building everything
from airplanes and office
buildings to clean water
systems and innovative
corporations highlight the
value of a Christian liberal
arts start.