Co-op student excels at designing sustainable buildings

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

A University of Waterloo co-op student played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable building practices at a local consulting and engineering firm that specializes in building science.

Recent Waterloo Engineering alum Nicholas Sterner (BASc ’24, architectural engineering) completed three co-op work terms at RDH Building Science Inc. Sterner made significant contributions to projects aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reaffirming the value of co-op for students and employers.

Sterner was assigned to the team leading the construction design of new student residences at the University of Victoria. The buildings had to meet rigorous energy performance standards such as the Passive House certification which ensures minimal energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Sterner conducted airtightness testing to evaluate airflow through the building with results surpassing the targets required for certification. He then authored the comprehensive report detailing these findings, which was submitted to the University of Victoria.

Andrea Pietila, associate and senior energy and climate engineer at RDH, said, "Nick's name is on that report, which is fantastic; it speaks volumes about his abilities. It also says a lot about the trust we put in co-op students."

Go to Waterloo co-op students apply hands-on skills to build a sustainable future at RDH Building Science for the full story.

Please visit Hire Waterloo if your organization is interested in hiring Waterloo co-op students. If you have any questions or need assistance with hiring a co-op student, please email hire.talent@uwaterloo.ca.