Industria, Innovación e Infraestructura

FICT researchers from ESPOL presented the results of the Specific Geophysics Agreement to CELEC-SUR in Cuenca, during the seminar commemorating the 15th anniversary of the Mazar Hydroelectric Power Plant. The presentation detailed the application of geoelectrical studies in unstable zones, highlighting their contribution to safety, planning, and risk reduction for the country's strategic hydroelectric infrastructure.

As part of their comprehensive training, Petroleum Engineering students from ESPOL conducted a technical field trip to the Pacifpetrol S.A. facilities in Ancón, where they strengthened their knowledge of artificial lift systems, refining, and the innovative use of solar panels in the industry. The activity, led by M.Sc. Christian Sánchez Rodríguez, allowed future engineers to link theory with operational management in mature fields, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4, 7, 9, and 12) by promoting a technical, efficient, and responsible vision of the national energy sector.

FICT-ESPOL successfully hosted the 5MinPitch PAO II 2025 semifinals, where students from Geological Engineering, Mining Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and Civil Engineering presented their capstone projects in five minutes before a specialized jury. This initiative strengthened communication skills and technical argumentation, leading to the selection of five finalist projects focused on solving real-world engineering challenges.

Petroleum Engineering students from FICT-ESPOL participated in a technical debate analyzing the current reliance on Electrical Submersible Pumps (ESP) versus alternative artificial lift systems in Ecuador's mature fields. The activity integrated environmental, economic, and technological impact assessments, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthening critical thinking applied to real-world challenges in the national energy sector.

From January 14 to 17, 2026, a multidisciplinary team led by M.Sc. Kenny Escobar Segovia installed corner reflectors in the Paute sector, Azuay, to calibrate Sentinel-1 satellite signals and monitor ground deformation using DInSAR technology. This strategic initiative aims to ensure the stability of the Paute Integral Hydroelectric Complex and the safety of surrounding communities, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals to strengthen infrastructure and risk management in Ecuador.

Mining Engineering students from the Faculty of Geosciences Engineering (FICT-ESPOL) participated in a co-teaching session with Dr. Fernando Morante (CIPAT) regarding zeolite deposits in the Chongón–Colonche Range. The session bridged the gap between applied geology and selective mining techniques within the Ecuadorian context, strengthening the technical judgment of future professionals and aligning with SDGs 4, 9, 12, and 15 through quality education linked to the real industry.

ESPOL's FICT conducted a field visit to the Balbanera–Pallatanga road section as part of the “Permeable Pavements for High Traffic” project. The activity allowed for the identification of the pilot site and the evaluation of the pavement, drainage system, and structural behavior of the road under real conditions, with the aim of validating laboratory results and strengthening the development of innovative solutions for road infrastructure.

FICT-ESPOL enhances postgraduate education through field practices in its Master's in Geotechnics program. Under the guidance of expert Maurizio Mulas, students conducted stratigraphic column logging, applying real technical criteria to strengthen decision-making in infrastructure projects. This experience reflects ESPOL's academic excellence, which combines scientific rigor with hands-on learning to train leaders in engineering.

Aquí tienes la traducción al inglés, manteniendo el tono profesional y resaltando el logro del estudiante: "Demian Román Abad, a Civil Engineering student at FICT-ESPOL, made history by becoming the first student nationwide to receive the Academic Excellence Recognition from the Holcim Academy. With a perfect score of 10/10 in the program's seventh cohort, Demian stands out as a benchmark for elite training at ESPOL—a pioneer institution of this alliance that seeks to empower young talent and bridge the gap between academic rigor and the sustainability demands of the global industry.

FICT-ESPOL will co-lead the international STARS project, funded by the Erasmus+ program, to strengthen disaster prevention in South America through the use of Geospatial Artificial Intelligence, GIS, and satellite data. Led by Dr. Andrés Velástegui in partnership with universities from Portugal, Sweden, and Colombia, this initiative will modernize laboratories and develop academic capacities aligned with the SDGs for innovation and sustainable cities.