Marquette University wins 2026 NCEES Engineering Education Award

Opus College of Engineering receives $25,000 grand prize for water distribution project

NCEES is pleased to announce that Marquette University is the grand prize winner of the 2026 NCEES Engineering Education Award. The university received the award for a project completed by the Opus College of Engineering. The award jury met virtually on June 2, 2026, to select the $25,000 grand prize winner.

For the school’s project, Cruz Chich y Chumisa Water Distribution System, Guatemala, students prioritized the health, safety, and welfare of the Cruz Chich and Chumisa communities. The students assessed regional needs by considering existing infrastructure, material availability, construction familiarity, and financial constraints. Additionally, students planned for the project’s long-term sustainability by appointing a local water committee, providing training in operational maintenance, and teaching important hygiene and public health practices.

The jury selected seven additional winners to receive awards of $10,000 each:

• Arizona State University
  Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
  EWB Kenya Solar Chapter

• California State University, Los Angeles
  College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology
  Design of a 3D-Printed Aircraft

• George Mason University
  Sid and Reva Dewberry Department of Civil, Environmental, and Infrastructure Engineering
  Chincoteague Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements

• Gonzaga University
  School of Engineering and Applied Science
  Re-imagining Hillyard

• Howard University
  College of Engineering and Architecture
  Kenya Water Supply Project

• Saint Francis University
  School of STEAM
  American Eagle Paper Mill Waste Management

• University of Alaska Anchorage
  Civil Engineering Department
  Pre-approved Accessory Dwelling Units