Michael Patrick Collins CM FRSC is a Canadian structural engineer[1] whose research is focused on the design and evaluation of reinforced and prestressed concrete buildings, bridges, nuclear containment structures and offshore oil platforms.
Collins has concentrated his research effort on understanding how cracked reinforced concrete resists shear stress.
The Compression Field Theory, and subsequently the Modified Compression Field Theory, developed by Professor Collins and his colleagues at the University of Toronto, Division of Engineering Science, provides a rational basis for shear design and has received worldwide recognition.
A Simplified Modified Compression Field Theory is currently the design standard in the Canadian CAN/CSA A23.3-04 which is the basic truss model, and soon to be updated and included in the European Building Code.
In 2005, Collins was chosen as one of 10 provincial finalists in TVOntario’s first Best Lecturer competition.