International Success of Silesian University of Technology Students in the 32nd AEC Global Teamwork Project
Students of Environmental Engineering, specializing in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Air Protection, from the Silesian University of Technology have once again demonstrated their readiness to work in international engineering teams. This year, they achieved remarkable success in the prestigious 32nd AEC Global Teamwork project, organized annually by Stanford University.
The AEC (Architecture-Engineering-Construction) Global Teamwork initiative brings together students from top technical universities around the world to co-create innovative and sustainable university buildings. Participants use cutting-edge tools and methods such as VR, AI, parametric modeling, and integrated supply chains. The goal is not only to develop forward-thinking design solutions but also to foster interdisciplinary and cross-cultural collaboration skills.
Our University was represented by Eng. Aleksandra Surma and Eng. Klaudiusz Wloka, responsible in their international teams for the design of MEP systems (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing). As part of the Project-Based Learning (PBL) program, their tasks included designing HVAC systems, performing building energy simulations, and implementing solutions to improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort — from photovoltaic installations to hybrid ventilation systems and intelligent air quality sensors.
- Eng. Aleksandra Surma collaborated with the Central2025 Team, which won the Sustainability Challenge. Their “Living Oasis” project, located on the UCLA campus, involved integrating architecture with structure and MEP, drawing inspiration from nature and focusing on user needs. Our student designed a VAV ventilation system with two-stage air filtration and night cooling, as well as a photovoltaic installation with energy storage and water recovery systems — responding to the climatic and environmental challenges specific to Los Angeles. The project team also created a productivity tracker and a toolbox that streamlined workflow and enabled informed determination of the usefulness of the technologies used — including AI-based tools..
▶️ Watch Central2025 Team Presentation
- Eng. Klaudiusz Wloka was a member of the Pacific2025 Team, which won two awards: the Technology Challenge and the IPD Challenge. The team’s project, "iLearn", redefined educational space as flexible and user-oriented. Our student was responsible for designing VAV-based HVAC systems with ceiling fans for occupants thermal comfort, heat pumps, HEPA filtration, renewable energy systems and water saving system to respond to the drought problem. His team also implemented proprietary AI tools to improve the decision-making process and support team collaboration.
▶️ Watch Pacific2025 Team Presentation
The AEC project is based on teamwork in international, interdisciplinary teams comprising students from five key fields: architecture, structural engineering, MEP engineering, construction management, and financial planning. Together, they respond to 21st-century challenges such as:
- climate change and CO₂ emissions reduction,
- digitization and prefabrication in construction (Construction 4.0),
- integration of BIM, VR, and AI in design processes,
- designing flexible, net-zero, and user-friendly buildings.
We are incredibly proud of our students, who showcased their knowledge, creativity, and professionalism, earning international recognition. Congratulations!
To conclude the project, we invite all interested students and staff to an open summary meeting:
- June 26, 2025 (Thursday)
- 12:00 PM
- Room A-245, Faculty of Environmental and Power EngineeringThis meeting will be an opportunity to explore the behind-the-scenes of international teamwork, hear from the participants themselves, and get inspired to join future editions of the project.
- Eng. Klaudiusz Wloka was a member of the Pacific2025 Team, which won two awards: the Technology Challenge and the IPD Challenge. The team’s project, "iLearn", redefined educational space as flexible and user-oriented. Our student was responsible for designing VAV-based HVAC systems with ceiling fans for occupants thermal comfort, heat pumps, HEPA filtration, renewable energy systems and water saving system to respond to the drought problem. His team also implemented proprietary AI tools to improve the decision-making process and support team collaboration.
