On-Demand Course: A Short History of Concrete in Canada: From Bridges to Bold Architecture

Notes/Preview

The contents of this course include two recorded presentations from the ACI 2025 Spring Convention:

• Frank Barber’s Historic Concrete Arch Bridges in Ontario by Michael Bartlett, University of Western Ontario

• Beyond Concrete: Historic Concrete in Canada by Michael McClelland, ERA Architects

INSTRUCTIONS: Study the materials included in this module. Then, complete and pass the corresponding 10-question quiz with a score of 80% or higher to receive a certificate for 0.1 CEU (equivalent to 1.0 PDH).

Continuing Education Credit: 0.1 CEU (1 PDH)

Approved AIA and ICC

Access Period: 30 days

Description

This course explores the evolution of concrete in Canada from early 20th-century bridge engineering to its transformative role in modern architecture and urban development. Beginning with Frank Barber’s pioneering concrete arch bridges in Ontario, the course examines how structural innovation, durability, and aesthetics shaped early infrastructure. It then expands to the broader architectural history of concrete in Canada, tracing its journey from utilitarian industrial material to a symbol of national modernism—before confronting public backlash and contemporary efforts toward conservation and sustainable renewal.

Document Details

Author: Bartlett, McClelland

Publication Year: 2026

ISBN:

Categories: Bridges, History

Formats: Online Learning

Table of Contents

Learning objectives:

1. Explain Frank Barber’s contributions to reinforced concrete bridge design and early arch theory in Canada.

2. Describe how concrete evolved from a utilitarian industrial material to a defining element of Canadian modernist architecture.

3. Evaluate the aesthetic debates surrounding concrete, including the rise and criticism of Brutalist architecture.

4. Discuss contemporary strategies for conserving and sustainably rehabilitating mid-20th-century concrete structures.

ERRATA INFO

Any applicable errata are included with individual documents at the time of purchase. Errata are not included for collections or sets of documents such as the ACI Collection. For a listing of and access to all product errata, visit the Errata page.

Return/Exchange Policy

Printed / Hard Copy Products: The full and complete returned product will be accepted if returned within 60 days of receipt and in salable condition. A 20% service charge applies. Return shipping fees are the customer’s responsibility.

Electronic /Downloaded Products & Online Learning Courses: These items are not eligible for return.

Subscriptions These items are not eligible for return.

Exchanges: Contact ACI’s Customer Services Department for options (+1.248.848.3800 – ACICustomerService@concrete.org).

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