Alumni Stories | City University of Hong Kong

Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering

Alumni Stories

The Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering (ACE) has nurtured exceptional professionals in the building and construction industries in the past years. Let's see what they say about ACE:

Alumni	Major	Current Role	Retrospect of Study Experience at ACE
Mr. Alexander Janson	Civil Engineering	Structural Engineer, Arup	"ACE has been both enriching and transformative. The programme challenged me to think critically, apply engineering concepts in practical settings, and grow beyond my comfort zone. The supportive lecturers, collaborative environment, and hands on learning approach helped me build confidence while deepening my technical foundations. Through every project and discussion, I gained not only knowledge but also resilience, discipline, and a clearer sense of direction for my career ahead. In short, learning in ACE department has become a blessing for me."
Ir. HUANG Patrick	Building Services Engineering	Senior Manager, Building Services, Swire Properties	"I graduated with a major in Building Engineering (Building Services Engineering) from CityUHK, where I found the program both rigorous and rewarding. The ACE department equipped me with both theoretical and practical skills, along with essential industry knowledge, which were crucial in launching my career. My favorite classes, particularly in multi-disciplinary design projects (similar to the current IBPD), inspired me to collaborate with different disciplines, allowing me to gain valuable experience in the design process. This comprehensive education not only enhanced my technical abilities but also prepared me to tackle real-world challenges in the field. I highly recommend that current and prospective students embrace all learning opportunities."
Ms. LIU Di	Construction Management	Cost Engineer, China Railway Design Corporation	"Courses offered by the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering have been immensely beneficial, deepening my understanding in my original field. After more systematic learning and refinement of my knowledge in BIM, my team and I represented the university in the BIM Modeling Competition organized by the Hong Kong Construction Industry Council, where we secured the 1st runner-up position. Additionally, during the completion of my dissertation, Prof. Lai and Prof. Huang provided significant assistance, enabling me to achieve new breakthroughs in environmental monitoring and programming. A heartfelt thank you to CityU and the Department of ACE for their nurturing and education."
Ms. LIU Xinwei	Civil and Architectural Engineering	Assistant Engineer, Mott MacDonald Hong Kong LImited	"The Civil and Architectural Engineering programme has not only equipped me with advanced technical expertise but also fostered critical soft skills that will shape my professional journey. I gained a thorough knowledge of Geotechnical Engineering, Local Engineering Contracts and BIM applications, which bridged theoretical concepts with real-world challenges. The programme also strengthened my communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities - whether through presenting research findings to diverse audiences or coordinating group tasks under tight deadlines."
Ar. POON Anika	Architectural Studies	Project Director, LWK & Partners (HK) Limited	"I have chosen CityUHK Architectural Studies in view of the international platform and high technology-based course structure. The programme has set a very clear goal for the graduates with both design and technical ability to suit the needs in the professions in Architecture. The course of both Associate Degree and Bachelor Design in Architectural studies gave a solid foundation to graduates in a wide spectrum of skills in building design, sustainability design, innovation technologies, statutory regulation in Hong Kong and all consolidation skills with other building professions. The graduates are educated and equipped for the young power in architectural field. CityUHK ACE has a platform to provide a wide spectrum of knowledge in building industry, architectural design, BIM adoption, building technology etc., which are comprehensive and informative."
Mr. POON Sheung-hei Hugo	Surveying	Building Surveyor, Savills Property Management Limited	“As a proud alumnus of CityUHK, I am deeply grateful for the enriching learning experience I gained while pursuing my major in Surveying at the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering. Graduating in 2021, the programme provided a solid foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for the building construction industry. The curriculum was comprehensive, emphasising not only technical expertise but also critical insights into the industry, which prepared me to tackle real-world challenges confidently. Surveying plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, functionality, and sustainability of our built environment. The education I received empowered me to appreciate the importance of precision, legal and economic considerations, and project management in the industry. My study journey at CityUHK has been instrumental in shaping my professional capabilities. I highly encourage current and prospective students to embrace every opportunity for learning and growth within our ACE Department and beyond.”
Ir. WONG Billy	Structural Engineering	Structural Engineer, Squad Unit / C Buildings Department	"I am proud to be among the first graduates of the structural engineering program at CityUHK's ACE Department. Starting as a graduate engineer and eventually becoming a Registered Structural Engineer (RSE) was a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. I could not have done it without many guardian angels along the way. Most importantly, CityUHK's nurturing environment, equipped with a "can-do" mindset, helped me overcome doubts and persist in finding solutions. Today, I stand confident in my skills, thanks to the unwavering support and guidance I received at CityUHK."