Advancing Aluminum Engineering: MAADI Group’s Vision and Global Impact
In a recent Light Metal Age interview, Alexandre de la Chevrotière, P.E., founder and CEO of MAADI Group Inc., discusses the company’s pioneering role in advancing aluminum design and engineering. Since its founding in 2005, MAADI has become a global leader in designing and building aluminum bridges, floating structures, and marine infrastructure—driven by a mission to deliver durable, aesthetically pleasing, and fully sustainable solutions.
From Maritime Design to Precision-Engineered Solutions
De la Chevrotière, a professional engineer with degrees in mechanical engineering and naval architecture, launched MAADI after gaining extensive experience in marine engineering. The company’s inception was catalyzed by a grant from the Aluminium Research and Development Centre of Québec (CQRDA) to develop the now-patented MakeABridge® system—an innovative, off-the-shelf pedestrian bridge kit designed for rapid global deployment. This no-weld, interlocking aluminum structure enhances strength and eliminates heat-affected zones, offering an ideal solution for commercial, industrial, and recreational applications.
Aluminum as a Game-Changer in Bridge Construction
MAADI’s commitment to aluminum goes beyond innovation—it challenges the status quo of conventional materials like steel and concrete. De la Chevrotière, a long-time advocate for aluminum structures, co-authored a detailed report with the Aluminium Association of Canada (AAC), highlighting the urgent need to upgrade North America’s aging bridge infrastructure and aluminum’s growing role in that future.
MAADI commissioned a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) study, completed by Deloitte, comparing the lifecycle costs of aluminum and steel pedestrian bridges. The results are clear: while aluminum’s upfront material costs may be higher, its corrosion resistance, light weight, recyclability, and near-zero maintenance make it the more cost-effective option over a 50-year lifespan—especially in remote or corrosive environments.
Technical Leadership and Global Collaboration
MAADI applies cutting-edge engineering standards like Canada’s Limit States Design (LSD) method, aligning with international practices and codes such as the Aluminum Design Manual and the updated CAN/CSA-S6 code, which now includes a dedicated chapter for aluminum bridges.
De la Chevrotière also plays a key role in global knowledge-sharing initiatives. He is part of the organizing committee for INALCO 2013, which will be held in Montréal as part of the first-ever Canadian International Aluminium Conference (CIAC). This major event brings together engineers, designers, and researchers from across industries to explore aluminum’s potential in everything from aerospace to infrastructure.
Shaping the Future of Sustainable Design
As aluminum continues to demonstrate its long-term value in structural applications, MAADI Group is at the forefront of innovation and sustainable infrastructure design. Through patented technologies, global collaborations, and cost-effective engineering, MAADI is setting new benchmarks in aluminum construction. One such advancement is GuarDECK™—a lightweight aluminum bridge decking system weighing just 10.1 psf (0.48 kPa), engineered for easy installation without welding or drilling into existing steel bearing structures.
