Comparing Environmental Impact, Structural Efficiency, and Design Performance in Urban Development

The growing demand for sustainable mid-rise buildings has reignited the debate between timber and concrete as primary structural materials. This course provides a comparative assessment of both systems, examining their environmental footprints, lifecycle performance, and design flexibility within contemporary construction.
Participants will analyze the advantages and trade-offs of timber and concrete in relation to embodied carbon, durability, and cost efficiency. Through real-world case studies, the course explores how innovative design approaches, hybrid systems, and advanced engineering techniques can combine the best attributes of both materials to meet evolving sustainability and performance standards.
By the end of the course, learners will understand how to select and apply the most appropriate material strategy for mid-rise projects—balancing aesthetics, regulatory compliance, and environmental responsibility.
Learning Outcomes:

Continuing Education
ArchPro Learning offers Continuing Education courses for licensed architects and design professionals across Canada. Our expert-led programs cover building codes, sustainability, ethics, and emerging technologies—supporting regulatory compliance and professional growth in architectural practice.
Jerry Luo, PhD, PE, is a licensed professional engineer in Ohio, Louisiana, and Texas, with over 15 years of diverse experience spanning higher education, research, and consulting in civil engineering and construction management. Renowned for his expertise in geotechnical engineering, he has published over 60 peer-reviewed research articles, significantly contributing to advancements in geotechnical risk assessment and infrastructure resilience. He also co-authored a widely recognized textbook on soil dynamics. Jerry has actively contributed to the global engineering community by serving on the editorial boards of multiple international journals and as a member of organizing committees for prestigious conferences. His work bridges academic excellence and industry practice, making a tangible impact on critical engineering projects. His dedication to mentorship and innovation reflects his commitment to shaping the next generation of civil engineers and advancing the profession through research, education, and practice.