WPS WORX Speaker Series: Allyn Kilsheimer

11/15/2024

Berlin, MD – On Friday, November 8, Worcester Prep's Upper School attended this month’s WORX (Work, Observe, Research, Experience) seminar. The seminar featured guest speaker Allyn Kilsheimer, grandfather to 9th grader Chase Thompson. Mr. Kilsheimer shared his impressive background as an engineer and involvement in the reconstruction of the Pentagon following 9/11.

Mr. Kilsheimer is the President and CEO of KCE Structural Engineers. His structural engineering work has encompassed high-rise office buildings, commercial projects, residential and hotel complexes, military facilities, and embassies throughout the United States and overseas totaling over $49 billion. In addition to traditional design work, he is considered a world-renowned expert in responding to and mitigating disasters and collapses, both natural and man-made.

On September 11, 2011, within minutes of the terrorist attacks, Mr. Kilsheimer was called for help from the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. In his presentation, Mr. Kilsheimer discusses all aspects of the destruction of the Pentagon on 9/11, including emergency stabilization, rescue assistance, demolition, and reconstruction of the over 1,000,000-square-foot structure.

Special thanks to Mr. Kilsheimer, and his family for visiting WPS and sharing his experience with the students.

The WORX program at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) will introduce students to the vast opportunities within the community and beyond. Worcester Prep’s mission of a college prep education combined with real-world observation will enhance our students’ learning and create opportunities for career exposure. These experiential learning opportunities will help students apply their classroom knowledge and encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, confidence, teamwork, and communication.

Founded in 1970, WPS is a private, independent Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 School, located in Berlin, Maryland. Approximately 500 students attend from Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia.

For more information about WPS, please visit www.worcesterprep.org or call 410.641.3575.

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From right to left, Allyn Kilsheimer pictured with his grandson, WPS 9th grader Chase Thompson (Rehoboth Beach, DE), and Chase’s parents, Timarie and Blaire Thompson.
Allyn Kilsheimer (standing far right), President and CEO of KCE Structural Engineers, presents the destruction to the Pentagon following 9/11 to Worcester Upper School students while sharing his experience in rescue assistance, demolition, and reconstruction of the over 1,000,000-square-foot structure following the terrorist attack.
Allyn Kilsheimer (center) pictured with his grandson, WPS 9th grader Chase Thompson (Rehoboth Beach, DE), and Head of School Dr. John McDonald.

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Worcester Preparatory School

508 South Main Street, Berlin, MD 21811

Phone: 410-641-3575 | Fax: 410-641-3586

Celebrating 50 years, WPS is an independent, college prep day school for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 students. Located in Berlin, Maryland, the private school attracts an average of 500 students from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.