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This paper examines the use of the cross-entropy (CE) method to estimate the structural parameters of a plate structure, given data from a simulated non-destructive static loading test. Finite element models of plates are created, with properties close to that of a bridge of similar dimensions. Damage is introduced to the models by local reductions in the longitudinal Young’s modulus (Ex). In practice, reduced values of Ex may result from material irregularities, poor construction methods and structural degradation due to weathering and/or impact. By assembling combinations of Ex values, the CE method searches the solution space of possible combinations of Ex values. The location and severity of the damage is varied to test the ability of the algorithm to identify different damage events