Civil engineering is essential for addressing modern infrastructure challenges, environmental sustainability and community development. Dr. Linda Tseng, a new assistant professor in the Civil Engineering Department at City College, is determined to contribute significantly to this important field through her teaching. With her expertise in environmental engineering and commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment, Dr. Tseng strengthens CCNY’s dedication to cultivating future leaders in engineering.
Tseng’s journey into civil engineering began during her college application process when she was especially drawn to environmental engineering and the promise of hands-on work.
“I realized that with environmental engineering, what you are doing is making a direct impact, which is very important for me,” Tseng explained in an interview. “Unlike environmental scientists, who primarily study and advise on phenomena, engineers are trusted with implementing studies to build solutions.”
Dr. Tseng posing with her students. Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Tseng.
This understanding solidified her decision to pursue a career where she could implement tangible solutions that would positively affect communities and the environment.
Tseng earned her dual Bachelor of Science degrees in environmental engineering and earth and environmental science from the University of California, Irvine. The dual focus allowed her to explore the intersection of engineering and environmental science; she said it was a decision she made during her junior year when she recognized the overlap in coursework. She then pursued a Master’s degree in environmental engineering and science at Stanford University before returning to UC Irvine to complete her PhD in engineering, concentrating on environmental engineering.
Tseng officially began her teaching career at CCNY in August 2024, marking a new chapter for her and the institution, and she’s enthusiastic to start.
“What excites me the most about working at City College is that there is a sense of community and diversity and, of course, inclusion.” Tseng shared. “I saw many efforts to make everyone feel included more than any other place I have ever worked in.”
She mentioned that she appreciates her colleagues’ proactive efforts to create an inclusive environment focused on students’ best interests. This commitment resonates deeply with Tseng, who said she sees it as a necessary route for shaping future workers in engineering.
This semester, Tseng is teaching “Computational Methods in Civil Engineering,” a course designed to equip students with the skills necessary to use computer programming in solving complex mathematical problems relevant to civil engineering. The course covers essential techniques for data analysis, including curve fitting and model implementation.
Tseng aims to ensure that her students not only understand the logic behind these methods but also develop the ability to apply them in real-world situations.
“I want my students to understand the practical applications of what they are learning and how these skills can help them address engineering challenges,” Tseng said.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Tseng is actively engaged in research that addresses critical environmental issues. Her current projects focus on microplastics and plastic additives, examining their prevalence in everyday items and their potential health implications.
One significant project investigates the chemical additives found in common clothing materials, raising concerns about how these substances may impact human health, particularly as they can be absorbed through the skin. Another collaborative project with Italian colleagues seeks to understand the various ways microplastics are generated, particularly during domestic activities such as washing clothes.
Tseng is determined to inspire the next generation of environmentally conscious engineers while contributing valuable research to the field, she said.
“If I can help the environment just a little bit with my research, it would be great,” she said. “If the students understand the material well and learn how to use what I teach to impact the world positively, that would be even greater.” Tseng shared.
Sofia is a graduate student at CUNY Brooklyn College, where she’s pursuing her M.S. in Media Studies. In addition to writing for The RICC, she’s a writer for the features section of Brooklyn College’s student-run newspaper, The Vanguard. She is also a dedicated writer for the Brooklyn News Service.