Premio Vila

Supporting Future Civil Engineers

The Cuban-American Association of Civil Engineers awards the Jose A. Vila Scholarship to civil engineering students enrolled in accredited programs in Florida. Supported by private donations from members and engineering companies, the scholarship provides financial assistance and recognizes students' academic achievements and promise in the profession.

The scholarship provides a minimum award of $1,000 per student, with funding supported by private donations. Beyond financial assistance, recipients receive recognition from the civil engineering community.

The Legacy of Dr. Jose A. Vila

Established in the late 1960s, the scholarship initially assisted financially disadvantaged civil engineering students at the University of Miami. The program later expanded to include Florida International University and the University of Florida.

Dr. Vila taught civil engineering at the University of Havana from the late 1940s through the early 1960s. His courses included structural engineering, concrete, steel, and prestressed and post-tensioned concrete. He supported students beyond regular office hours through workshops, seminars, and personal guidance.

After leaving Cuba, Dr. Vila worked for several engineering firms and continued mentoring young engineers. His patient, step-by-step approach to solving problems reflected his commitment to both engineering and education. This scholarship honors that legacy by supporting the next generation of civil engineers.

Scholarship Recipients: 2023–2025

Become a Premio Vila Scholarship Sponsor

Your contribution helps civil engineering students continue their education and become part of a community dedicated to professional excellence and service. The scholarship is supported by the generosity of C-AACE members, local engineering companies, and individual donors.

To contribute by check, please make it payable to the Cuban-American Association of Civil Engineers and write Vila Scholarship in the memo line. Contact the Association for current donation delivery instructions and scholarship event details.

Thank you for supporting the education and development of future civil engineers.