University of Windsor President Robert Gordon, engineering student Mariah Saad, Faculty of Engineering Dean Bill Van Heyst, and WDBA Chief Capital Officer Grant Hilbers unveil a scale model of the Gordie Howe International Bridge on July 17 at the Ed Lumley Centre for Engineering Innovation. The installation symbolizes a long-standing partnership focused on student opportunity and regional impact; Saad is among the more than 220 UWindsor students who have completed co-op placements with WDBA. (MIKE WILKINS/University of Windsor)
By Lindsay Charlton
A partnership built on student innovation and community impact was celebrated Thursday as the University of Windsor and the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA) unveiled a scale model of the Gordie Howe International Bridge at the Ed Lumley Centre for Engineering Innovation.
The installation marks nearly a decade of collaboration between the University and WDBA, which has supported over 220 student placements since 2016 across various disciplines, including civil engineering, communications, and environmental science. More than 50 alumni now work in key roles on one of North America’s most significant infrastructure projects.
“Our students are not just witnesses to change — they are the changemakers,” said Robert Gordon, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Windsor. “This partnership with WDBA exemplifies how strategic collaboration can empower students, strengthen communities, and bridge regional priorities with global innovation.”
The 1:750-scale model of the Gordie Howe International Bridge project, previously used for public engagement, is now permanently housed in the Faculty of Engineering.
Built by Peter McCann Architectural Models Inc., the display measures 6.1 metres long and 2.4 metres wide and features detailed models of the bridge, Canadian and U.S. ports of entry, and the Michigan Interchange.
Another 1:500-scale model of the bridge was also installed in the dean’s boardroom on the third floor.
WDBA Chief Capital Officer Grant Hilbers giving remarks at an event to unveil a scale model of the Gordie Howe International Bridge on July 17 at the Ed Lumley Centre for Engineering Innovation (MIKE WILKINS/University of Windsor)
“As a proud graduate of the University of Windsor, I am thrilled to see the permanent display of the Gordie Howe International Bridge scale model at the school,” said Grant Hilbers, chief capital officer at WDBA.
“It is indicative of the synergetic partnership between WDBA and the University.
“Our shared values of community leadership, collaboration and advancement have allowed us to bring the project to life in a way that invites the next generation of students, engineers and community leaders to imagine the ways they may be able to shape the future through large infrastructure projects.”
In a personal touch, engineering students are developing custom 3D-printed figurines to populate the model, each representing a member of the UWindsor or WDBA team. The avatars serve as a reminder of the human connections behind the project.
Another unique feature is a weather simulator connected to the building’s living wall. When the wall is watered, a timed storm passes over the model, linking the display to its surroundings.
The collaboration between UWindsor and WDBA extends beyond campus and construction. Through the Gordie Howe International Bridge Community Benefits Plan, WDBA has supported several local initiatives, including CJAM’s Higher Ground Music Festival, Assumption University’s Father Joe Quinn Education Series, and the campus Pow Wow.
With the bridge expected to open later this year, the installation ensures the story of student engagement and cross-border cooperation continues to be shared for years to come.