1106

The Role of the Structural Engineer in Large-Scale Projects

The Role of the Structural Engineer in Large-Scale Projects

Guest Lecture | University of Calgary · March 2025

Structural engineers are essential to the realization of complex and sustainable building projects. In this guest lecture, Sascha Millich, Managing Director and Partner at CSZ, shared insights into the evolving role of structural engineers in shaping the built environment—from ensuring structural integrity to enabling innovative and sustainable solutions.

Drawing on international project experience, Sascha highlighted the importance of early collaboration across disciplines and the engineer’s role in driving efficiency, resilience, and environmental responsibility in large-scale developments.

Key topics included:

  • The 10 core responsibilities of structural engineers
  • The full project lifecycle—from concept to completion
  • The value of interdisciplinary teamwork with architects, MEP, and more
  • Insights from CSZ’s international project portfolio
  • Sustainability as a driving force in structural design
  • Sustainable material and construction strategies

Special thanks to Prof. Dr. Mamdouh El-Badry, Dr. Jacob Lamb, and all the engaged participants who made this session a meaningful exchange.

2705

CSZ Hamburg | Structural planning for the new construction of the Nienburg fire station

CSZ Hamburg | Structural planning for the new construction of the Nienburg fire station

An important infrastructure project for the district of Nienburg
In the Lemke industrial estate in the district of Nienburg, a modern fire department technical center (FTZ) will be built by the end of 2027, which is scheduled to go into operation at the beginning of 2028. The new building will include vehicle and logistics halls, workshops and a state-of-the-art training facility for respiratory protection. The site will also be used to house the veterinary and food monitoring departments. Further areas are planned for the fire protection and rescue services as well as logistics areas for civil protection and disaster control.

Archaeological investigations and construction process
The project started back in November 2024 with the preparation earthworks. Due to the historical significance of the site, archaeological investigations were carried out in order to secure possible finds and not delay the construction process. Once this work has been completed, the other construction phases can begin without restrictions. The civil engineering work for drainage will start in July 2025, followed by the shell construction work in September. Completion of the project is scheduled for the end of 2027.

Modern architecture and sustainable construction
The new building complex is designed as a U-shaped courtyard, which enables efficient use and short distances. The architecture, for which agn Niederberghaus & Partner GmbH is responsible, provides a hall for vehicles, workshops, training rooms and an extensive office and training area. There is a particular focus on sustainable construction methods: The facades are made of typical regional masonry, green roofs ensure an improved climate and a photovoltaic system on the main vehicle hall contributes to energy generation. Heating is provided by an environmentally friendly air/water heat pump.

CSZ Hamburg – partner for structural design
The architecture, building physics and fire protection of this pioneering project are in the hands of agn Niederberghaus & Partner GmbH, while CSZ Hamburg is responsible for the structural design. We are delighted to be part of a committed planning team and are looking forward to the construction phase with great anticipation. We will continue to keep you regularly informed about the progress of the project.

Visualization: Mischa Lötzsch / 4-e-motions, Architecture: agn Niederberghaus & Partner GmbH

2105

#GemeinsamZukunftBauen – CSZ management workshop at Jagdschloss Kranichstein

#GemeinsamZukunftBauen – CSZ management workshop at Jagdschloss Kranichstein

“It was impressive to see how much expertise and commitment there is in our group of companies.” A sentence that sticks – because it shows what becomes possible when over 20 managers from all CSZ branches come together: open, curious and full of drive. From May 14 to 16, authorized signatories, senior engineers and managing directors came together at Jagdschloss Kranichstein in Darmstadt – for real encounters, new impulses and concrete ideas on how we can shape the future together.

What was it all about?
The focus was on the question: How can we better recognize synergies – and achieve more together? Because one thing is clear: we are stronger together. We create clear competitive advantages through close networking and cooperation between our divisions. CSZ is more than the sum of its parts. The targeted exchange of expertise and mutual support are the foundation for sustainable growth – for our company as well as for our customers. The focus: open dialog, shared thinking and valuable contributions – for a leadership culture that makes a difference.

Our highlights:
  🏛  Historical flair meets forward thinking – the hunting lodge as a stage for exchange, ideas and strategy
 🌍 Expert knowledge up close – exciting insights into foreign countries, building physics, structural design, fire protection, civil engineering, green engineering, Structural testing & technical equipment
 🤝 Networking at eye level – intensive exchange with the management of all CSZ locations
 💡 From dialogue to implementation – interactive workshops with a focus on recognizing and using synergies
 🎭 Learning with ease – inspiring food for thought in the workshop and hearty laughter at the SUBITO improvisational theater.

What we take away:
Strong cooperation, fresh perspectives – and the clear will to network our expertise even more closely.
For sustainable solutions. For our customers. For the future.

👉 Let’s #BuildTheFutureTogether

1205-1

Directly from Konaktiva: Statement from Daniel Pister

Directly from Konaktiva: Statement from Daniel Pister

“Konaktiva is a great opportunity to meet young talents and exciting personalities.”
CSZ was enthusiastically represented at Konaktiva in Darmstadt! Directly after his inspiring presentation about LUNA – a CSZ reference project for the lunar simulation system in Cologne – Daniel Pister shared his impressions of the event.
A big thank you to everyone who visited our stand! The discussions with so many motivated young professionals, the fresh ideas and the great energy on site showed once again that the next generation has enormous potential.
Special praise goes to the entire CSZ team – for the successful presentation and the cordial atmosphere, which enabled encounters at eye level.

1205

CSZ Hamburg: Frank Klipp appointed as Authorized Representative

CSZ Hamburg: Frank Klipp appointed as Authorized Representative

 CSZ Ingenieurconsult GmbH & Co. KG is pleased to announce that Mr. Frank Klipp has been working as an Authorized Representative in the Hamburg branch office since April 1, 2025. Mr. Klipp has many years of experience in engineering, particularly in the areas of modern timber construction and building in existing structures. He has been a Managing Engineer at CSZ since 2022 and has successfully applied his extensive expertise to challenging projects. Through his engagement, Mr. Klipp has made a significant contribution to strengthening CSZ’s position, particularly in the region in and around Hamburg. In his new role, he will make a decisive contribution to the further development and success of the company. We congratulate Mr. Klipp on his promotion and wish him every success and fulfilment in his new role.

 

0405

May 4 – International Firefighters’ Day

May 4 – International Firefighters’ Day

On International Firefighters’ Day, we would like to thank the brave firefighters who risk their lives every day to protect us. Their tireless efforts deserve our utmost appreciation. 🚒 As experts in fire protection services, CSZ Brandschutz GmbH has set itself the task of ensuring the protection of life and limb as well as buildings with fire protection concepts that focus on protection goals. The key to effective fire protection solutions is early planning – fire hazards and preventive measures must be taken into account in the initial planning phase. Thanks to our interdisciplinary knowledge and extensive experience, we professionally implement all measures from planning to execution.

Our services at a glance:

  • planning & approval planning: development of customized fire protection concepts that meet all safety requirements.
  • construction & monitoring: ensuring the correct implementation of the previously defined fire protection measures.
  • commissioning & quality assurance: monitoring commissioning and ensuring fire protection documentation.

Selected CSZ projects: Individual fire protection concepts for a wide range of building types – from educational and healthcare buildings to technically demanding special buildings. An insight into our work:

  • Lunar simulation facility LUNA, Cologne.
    As general planner, CSZ was responsible for the complete project preparation and implementation – including structural design, technical equipment, traffic planning, building physics and fire protection.
  • Center for Mental Health, Böblingen.
    CSZ is responsible for the planning of technical equipment, structural design, building physics, as well as preventive fire protection.
  • “An der Hasenheide” elementary school, Bernau.
    CSZ is responsible for the structural design, building physics and fire protection.
  • Fire Technology Center (FTZ), Göttingen.
    CSZ is responsible for the planning of structural design and building physics, including thermal insulation, building and room acoustics, as well as energy consulting. DGNB Gold certification is being sought for the new building.

In close cooperation with building owners, authorities and users, we develop customized, approvable fire protection solutions that guarantee the highest safety standards – safe, economical and future-oriented. 

3004

Meet the Leaders! – Meet the CSZ management team at Konaktiva 2025

Meet the Leaders! – Meet the CSZ management team at Konaktiva 2025

Want more than just a flyer? Then take the opportunity to talk directly to our Managing Director Ms. Subasi and the authorized signatories Mr. Schulze and Mr. Desch. Gain personal insights into our day-to-day work, innovative projects and your career opportunities at CSZ.

📅 When: May 06-08, 2025 | 09:30-16:30
📍 Where? Darmstadtium | Stand B3

Your highlights on site:

  • Face-to-face with the leadership team – genuine, open, at eye level
  • Exclusive insight into our star project “LUNA” – the lunar simulation facility in Cologne
  • Career prospects that suit you: Working student | Internship | Thesis | Career entry
  • Find out how we at CSZ are shaping the building world of tomorrow together – responsibly, sustainably and with genuine enthusiasm for technology.
  • Admission is free – so just come along, ask your questions and discover your future at CSZ!

We look forward to seeing you – Building the Future Together! 

2904

CSZ Green Engineering – Part 1: Sustainable construction with interdisciplinary power

CSZ Green Engineering – Part 1: Sustainable construction with interdisciplinary power

Climate change, scarcity of resources, increasing demands: CSZ Green Engineering meets these challenges in an interdisciplinary, digital and international way. Our experts develop sustainable solutions with BIM, simulation and bundled expertise – efficient, sound and future-proof. And because sustainability has to be considered globally, we also contribute our expertise internationally – one example of this is our location in Calgary, Canada – an important hub for our international activities.

 🎬 What can you expect in Video 1?

  • Why sustainable construction is essential – and feasible – today,
  • How CSZ pools specialist knowledge to create tangible innovation,
  • What role our international network plays in this.

➡ Take a look now: compact, practical and with a real look behind the scenes at CSZ Green Engineering.

2304

Career opportunities at CSZ – your future starts at Konaktiva 2025!

Career opportunities at CSZ – your future starts at Konaktiva 2025!

Would you like to realize exciting projects and take the first step towards your professional future? Then visit us at Konaktiva 2025 in Darmstadt and discover your opportunities at CSZ!
Are you passionate about civil engineering, environmental engineering, building technology, fire protection, building physics or sustainability assessment?
Take the opportunity to apply your passion to international, innovative projects. Get to know us and discover a wide range of entry opportunities – whether as a working student, with a thesis or when starting your career!

  •  📅  Save the Date: May 06, 2025 | 09:30 – 16:30
  •  📍 Darmstadtium | Stand B3

What you can expect:

  • Direct exchange with our team and the management
  • Lecture: “Bring the moon to earth – LUNA, the lunar simulation facility in Cologne”
    🕦 May 06 | 11:30-12:00 | Room 2.06 argentum
  • Competition with great prizes
  • Insights into innovative construction projects that are shaping the future.

Admission to the fair is free – so come along and start your career at CSZ!
We look forward to meeting you – Building the Future Together!

2004

Spring Vibes & Easter Smiles – CSZ wishes you a happy Easter!

Spring Vibes & Easter Smiles – CSZ wishes you a happy Easter!

Spring is here – with its lightness, the blossoming trees outside our office and the first warm rays of sunshine. It’s a time of new beginnings, renewal and moments, big and small, that bring us together. The perfect moment to pause, say “thank you” – and of course: to celebrate Easter.

 🐣 What does Easter mean at CSZ?
For some, it’s the classic Easter breakfast with the family – like our colleagues Manuela Eckelt and Aleksandar Kolev-Eckelt from Darmstadt. They sent us a photo of their lovingly laid Easter table. Especially cute: their son painted an egg with the CSZ logo. A nice sign of how strongly our team spirit is also felt at home – and sometimes even ends up on an Easter egg.
For others, Easter marks the start of the barbecue season! In Darmstadt, we take advantage of the sunny spring weather to have a barbecue together on our roof terrace on Friday. Colleagues come together, exchange ideas and round off the week in a relaxed atmosphere. Moments like these show: Community at CSZ goes far beyond daily project work.

 🥚 Architecture meets Easter eggs.
And sometimes the associations with Easter are even of an architectural nature – as with our project in Würzburg. Two impressive digestion tanks were built there for the municipal sewage treatment plant, whose shape is reminiscent of oversized Easter eggs. Designed by Auer Weber Architekten, they look like smoothly polished river pebbles – elegant, efficient and unique.
Thanks to the new structure, significantly more energy can be generated in future – and at the same time the project sets a striking architectural accent at the entrance to the Zellerau district. Function meets form: An engineering structure that not only impresses with its performance, but also with its aesthetics.

 🌸 Spring is in the air.
And sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest impression: The trees outside our office are blooming in soft pink, putting us in a good mood and awakening our anticipation of what’s to come. It is precisely these harbingers of spring that inspire us – quiet, beautiful hints of movement and new beginnings.

We wish all our colleagues, partners and friends a happy Easter!

 
Headquarters

CSZ Consulting Engineers Inc. McFarlane Tower, Suite 1640 – 700 4th Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 3J4, Canada


CSZ Consulting Engineers Inc. is an affiliated company of the CSZ Ingenieurconsult CORNELIUS-SCHWARZ-ZEITLER GmbH, Germany