14 May How Levy’s “Professor” Teaches Real-World Engineering

For over 100 years, Levy has been committed to helping create strong communities where we live and work. One of the ways we do that is through educating students about the work we do and the impact it creates. So when Wayne State University asked for Levy to speak to an engineering class, we jumped at the opportunity. 

Al Popp, Levy’s Director of Engineering, joined a master’s and PhD level engineering class focused on construction materials, such as concrete and aggregates. Popp didn’t want this to be a traditional lecture. Instead, he shared stories and experiences from his 30+ year career developing alternative and beneficial-use materials – products some think of as “waste” but are increasingly being used to build stronger, more resilient, and more environmentally responsible infrastructure. This gave students a clear understanding of how the concepts they’re studying show up in real projects and real careers in the real world.

“Seeing how engaged the students were made sharing my career journey especially rewarding,” said Popp. “It meant a lot to me to guide students on how they think about materials, innovation, and their own careers. Levy always tries to make a difference in the communities we serve and one of the best ways to do that is staying connected to the next generation of engineers so they can do the same.”

The presentation may have lasted a relatively short time, but the impact lives on.

Following Popp’s lecture, Levy has donated various materials to Wayne State University, enabling students to continue a hands-on learning approach. Plus, the university is allowing Levy to test materials using its state-of-the-art proprietary Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA). Students have also continued to reach out to Popp with questions and for advice. It’s a true win-win and proves how collaboration can make a real difference in the classroom and beyond. 

For Popp and for Levy as a whole, the experience was an example of the value of showing up and sharing what you’ve learned. And after spending time at the front of the room, Popp earned a new title around the office: Professor Popp.