Scientists from the Silesian University of Technology took part in the Summer School in Bergamo
Last week, the SHM 2026 Summer School in Bergamo, Italy, was held under the motto “From Heritage to Innovation. Exploring the Future of Structural Health Monitoring.” The meeting brought together students, PhD students, and researchers from all over Europe, including from the Silesian University of Technology.
For the Silesian University of Technology, as one of the partner institutions, it was an excellent opportunity to contribute to an international, interdisciplinary educational experience, the topic of which is how SHM can support the understanding, assessment, and protection of both historical and contemporary buildings. It was represented by three employees of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the Silesian University of Technology and the Faculty of Civil Engineering of the Silesian University of Technology and eight doctoral students of the Silesian University of Technology.
The program was largely based on learning by practice. During the intensive week, participants:
- conducted experimental vibration tests and structural health monitoring,
- worked with real measurement data and their interpretation,
- studied the use of digital tools such as HBIM and Digital Twins,
- worked in international teams on SHM case studies, including the historic pedestrian bridge in Trezzo sull'Adda and the scaled steel frame in an intact and damaged configuration,
- developed and presented their own solutions combining design dynamics, measurements, modelling, and data analysis.
- This initiative is particularly valuable because of its interdisciplinary nature. SHM provides a common language combining civil engineering and mechanical engineering, experimental techniques, digital modelling, and preservation of cultural heritage. The program gave participants the opportunity to learn not only from lecturers, but also from each other – explains the Director of the Doctoral School Dr Hab. Eng. Andrzej Katunin, Prof. SUT.
Università degli studi di Bergamo was the coordinator of the 2026 edition, and it was organized jointly with Rīgas Tehniskā Universitāte, Hochschule Bochum, Università Politecnica delle Marche and Silesian University of Technology.
- A big thank you to all our partners and organizers for excellent preparation, inspiring lectures, practical classes, and friendly atmosphere throughout the week. Special thanks are due to our colleagues from the University of Bergamo – Prof. Rosalba Ferrari, Prof. Andrea Belleri, Dr Virna Maria Nannei and colleagues for their hospitality in Bergamo and for coordinating this edition of the program, - adds Prof. Andrzej Katunin. - We are proud that the Silesian University of Technology is part of this growing European network and we look forward to continuing our cooperation in science and technology education, scientific research, and international mobility.
