MCMASTER TROITSKY BRIDGE BUILDING COMPETITION

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What is Troitsky?

REGISTRATION LINK: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf8AfawiPyXIYWftY43R7Mx-Isy3WRnin4s9wdsoPJK3DH1RA/viewform

PLEASE EMAIL US WITH YOUR TEAM MEMBERS IF REGISTERING FROM MCMASTER

Troitsky is a bridge-building competition held annually since 1984, hosted by Concordia University in Montreal. In teams of 4-6 people, undergraduate students construct a bridge approximately one meter long using only popsicle sticks, white glue, and dental floss. The bridges are scored based on presentation, design, and efficiency using a hydraulic press. The 3-day event attracts students from across the country and is a great collaborative design experience. McMaster began participating in the competition in 2010, and since then our teams have consistently placed in the top ten, often holding spots on the podium.

The competition is a great way to apply your engineering skills in a unique way. Although popsicle sticks, white glue, and dental floss may not sound like the most conventional materials, that’s what makes it interesting. Our students' creative thinking has produced bridges in the past holding over 1400 kg, with an incredible record of 4000kg! McMaster always has a strong presence at the competition, typically sending up 5 or 6 teams to participate.

How can I join?

General information meetings are held at the beginning of the year, where we will start to form teams. If you have a group of 4-6 students who would like to join we will gladly sign you up together. Please speak with a Troitsky coordinator at the meeting or send us an email at mcmaster.troitsky@mcmaster.ca. If you have not formed a full group, or want to join as an individual, please still reach out to us. You are more than welcome, and we will do our best to find teams for everyone. Please note that due to the elevated number of students who wish to participate in the competition, registration is first come first served.

I don’t really know anything about bridge design, can I still join a team?

Yes! Everyone has to start somewhere right? Although the competition is typically geared towards Civil engineering students, all years and disciplines are welcome. In previous years, we have even had teams entirely made up of First-Year students! To support students, last year each team was assigned a coach to help mentor them through the design and construction of their bridge.

When is the competition?

The competition usually takes place over the first weekend of March (the weekend following second-semester reading week). However, the exact date may vary from year to year.

What is the time commitment?

The time commitment of each team varies. It generally depends on the complexity of your design and your dedication to the project. Most groups begin meeting up in the fall for a few hours every couple of weeks. However, most groups tend to meet up more frequently (5-10 hrs per week) during the second semester as the competition approaches.

How much does it cost?

In the past, the competition typically cost $335 per student. This includes a three-night stay in downtown Montreal, registration in the competition, and most meals throughout the weekend, including a banquet dinner.

If you have any questions about Troitsky or wish to join us for next year’s competition, please do not hesitate to contact us at mcmaster.troitsky@gmail.com or DM us on Instagram @mcmaster_troitsky.

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