Practical AI Use-Cases for Structural Engineers: Opportunities and Pitfalls

Project Profile: Artificial intelligence is already reshaping day-to-day structural engineering practice, from generative and parametric design tools that explore framing options in minutes, to AI assisted code-checking, drafting assistants, and QA reviews that flag inconsistencies before they reach a stamped drawing. This talk looks at where these tools have a valuable place on design teams today, and where special care is required to implement them responsibly. Steven Oosterhof and Eric Duong will share firsthand experience leading DIALOG’s structural engineers in discovering and implementing AI-assisted workflows on live structural projects: what has sped up delivery, what new errors it has introduced, and how quality control has had to adapt in response. The discussion stays grounded in practical judgment rather than hype: knowing when a tool's output can be trusted, when it needs independent verification, and where human engineering judgment remains irreplaceable. Attendees will leave with a clearer, current picture of what AI can responsibly do for an engineering practice today, and what pitfalls to watch for as adoption accelerates. Presenters: Steven Oosterhof, Ph.D, P.Eng., PE., SE. | Structural Engineer, Partner Steven Oosterhof is a Structural Engineering and Partner at DIALOG, based in Edmonton. He holds a PhD in Civil/Structural Engineering from the University of Alberta and has led the structural design of major projects across Western Canada. Eric Duong, E.I.T., M.Sc. | Strucutral Engineer in Training Eric Duong is a Structural Engineer in Training at DIALOG, based in Edmonton. He holds a MSc in Civil/Structural Engineering from the University of Alberta and has worked on various healthcare, institutional, and civic projects across Canada. Dinner Location University of Alberta The University Club 11435 Saskatchewan Drive Dinner Schedule Registration & Networking 5:30 Buffet Dinner 6:30 Presentation 7:30 Closing Remarks 8:30 Dinner Rates Members & Sponsors $50 Students $10 (Student Night Rate!) Non-Members $65 Sponsoring companies can redeem their complementary dinner tickets by registering for sponsor dinner ticket option. Please note pre-registration is required so we can have headcount for the dinner. Note: If you have sponsored CSCE Edmonton and have not yet received your complimentary sponsor tickets, please email [email protected] to get access to use them in advance.