ASCE Association News
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Virginia Bridge Replacement Funded by New Mechanism
ASCE SmartBrief | May 29, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: The Virginia Transportation Infrastructure Bank has agreed to contribute toward its first project, the replacement of a two-lane bascule bridge with a higher, wider fixed span that will ease marine and vehicular traffic. Learn about it today with your member login.
Concrete Canoe is less than three weeks away -- are you ready?
ASCE SmartBrief | May 29, 2012
ASCE's 25th National Concrete Canoe Competition is coming June 14-16, and you can follow every team and all the action at the Society's special website. Explore the history of an event that has attracted more than 480 teams and 6,000 student engineers, including a multimedia gallery of photos and videos. Did you compete at any of the finals? You're invited to share your memories. Get news about the teams, the design and construction of the canoes, the 18 ASCE student conference competitions, and live coverage of the finals at the University of Nevada, Reno. The ASCE National Concrete Canoe Competition is funded in part by a grant from the ASCE Foundation.
Learn about ASCE's new Civil Engineering Clubs in free webinar
ASCE SmartBrief | May 25, 2012
ASCE is launching a new outreach project that will build appreciation for civil engineering and interest in it as a career among high school students. Find out about Civil Engineering Clubs, including how you can take part, in a free one-hour webinar, Wednesday, May 30, at noon ET. Members Ken Maschke, P.E., S.E., M.ASCE, of Thornton Tomasetti, Melissa Wu, P.E., M.ASCE, of CH2M HILL, and Tony Cioffi, P.E., M.ASCE, of the City University of New York NYC College of Technology will introduce the club concept and outline concrete steps you can take now to start a club in your area. ASCE Section, Branch, and Younger Member group leaders are especially invited to be among the first to test drive the concept, earning the distinction of being a 2012-2013 pilot club. To register by May 28, e-mail Daryl Morais, manager of Geographic Services, at dmorais@asce.org. Webinar course materials and dial-in/Web access information will be sent to registered participants a few days before the event.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Computer Model Will Predict Concrete Durability
ASCE SmartBrief | May 25, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: Researchers are developing a computer model to predict the properties of concrete -- including durability -- by examining its mixture composition and rheology. Learn about it today with your member login.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Snakelike Gardens Suggest Cleaner, Greener City
ASCE SmartBrief | May 24, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: In Mexico City, vertical gardens with hydroponic plantings remind residents and visitors alike of the region’s emerging environmental consciousness. Discover how they they work and their benefits with your member login.
Stay current with the latest masonry building code standards
ASCE SmartBrief | May 24, 2012
If you're a structural engineer involved in the design and construction of masonry structures, you'll want a new essential reference, the updated Standards 5-11 and 6-11, Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures. As a standard, this new edition is written to allow for its adoption by reference in an official building code. Changes include a recalibration of allowable stresses, the addition of provisions for infill masonry, and a refinement of the quality assurance/special inspection provisions for masonry that includes references to relevant requirements for each inspection task. Make this critical update part of your reference library -- order Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures today.
Free webinar for ASCE members: "Failure to Act" on infrastructure needs
ASCE SmartBrief | May 23, 2012
For close to a year, ASCE has issued a series of reports built around studies examining the potential economic effects of failing to adequately repair and upgrade America's aging infrastructure. Learn more about the latest reports covering water and energy, and how you can discuss their findings with the public, in a new eLearning webinar, free to ASCE members. ASCE’s "Failure to Act" Economic Studies: What Happens to the Economy if We Don’t Invest in Water and Energy Infrastructure Today? will delve into the studies' forecasts for GDP, personal income, and jobs in 2020 and 2040 and the consequences if current infrastructure investment trends continue. The webinar will be led by the studies' author, Steve Landau, and ASCE's Managing Director of Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives, Brian Pallasch. As Sections and Branches look to explain to state and local officials the need to invest in infrastructure, these reports are ready resources. Learn how to leverage them in this webinar, coming Wednesday, June 6 at 2 p.m. ET. Register now!
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Oklahoma Deconstructs, Recycles Interstate Bridge
ASCE SmartBrief | May 23, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: The Oklahoma Department of Transportation has begun deconstruction work on the state's longest bridge, known as the Crosstown Bridge, in Oklahoma City. The bridge's longitudinal steel girders are being recycled so that they can be used for new county bridges within the state. Learn more about the system with your member login.
ASCE website pays tribute to civil engineers of Asian-Pacific heritage
ASCE SmartBrief | May 22, 2012
Explore the many contributions to civil engineering by professionals with Asian-Pacific backgrounds, both past and present, at a newly launched section of ASCE's website. Civil Engineering and Asian-Pacific History includes profiles of 34 inspiring individuals, from those with lifelong careers full of achievement to promising young pros chosen in recent years as ASCE's New Faces of Civil Engineering. Plus, if you know someone worthy of inclusion, you can submit them to ASCE. Visit the special section.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Portland Streetcar Extension Set to Open
ASCE SmartBrief | May 21, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: Punch list work is under way on the Portland Streetcar Loop extension project, which brings a modern streetcar system to the eastern side of the city of Portland for the first time. Learn more about the system with your member login.
Hear the nominees for ASCE President-elect on today's civil engineering issues
ASCE SmartBrief | May 21, 2012
Listen to newly recorded podcast interviews with the two nominees for ASCE President-elect in the Society's upcoming 2012 elections. Randall S. Over, P.E., F.ASCE, and Garland P. Rose Jr., P.E., D.WRE, F.ASCE, each respond to five questions suggested by ASCE members' submissions on a broad range of issues facing civil engineers, their careers, and the profession, and what they would do if elected. In closing statements, Over and Rose talk about their visions and qualifications. Hear and/or download each nominee's podcast in its entirety, or each question and closing statement individually at the podcasts page. For details on member qualifications to vote, see the official ASCE Election page.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Conn. DOT's First Bus Rapid Transit System Under Way
ASCE SmartBrief | May 18, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: The Connecticut Department of Transportation chose bus rapid transit from among many options for expanding capacity on Interstate 84 between New Britain and Hartford, determining that dedicated buses given the right of way could cut some commutes in half without breaking the bank. Learn about their strategy with your member login.
Now through May 31: $125 discount on live webinars
ASCE SmartBrief | May 18, 2012
Enhance your knowledge and earn PDHs with ASCE's live webinars, providing the latest information from leading experts who can be questioned live, online. As part of continuing efforts to increase value for small firms and individual engineers, ASCE is offering a special discount for individual ASCE members to attend a live webinar. Register no later than May 31 for any upcoming live webinar and save $125 on the registration fee. Visit asce.org/125discount to take advantage of this special offer. This offer is not valid for group attendance. ASCE’s Webinars are comprehensive, proven, quality training and education that meets your needs cost-effectively.
Nominations sought for ASCE ethics and leadership award by June 1
ASCE SmartBrief | May 17, 2012
Honor a colleague for a specific accomplishment or for lifetime achievements that demonstrate superior ethics and leadership while they participated in professional practice or public service. Nominate them for the 2012 ASCE Professional Practice Ethics and Leadership Award. The winner receives an honorarium and a certificate. For more details, visit the official award page, or e-mail professional@asce.org. Act now; nominations must be submitted by June 1.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Center for Brain Health Designed for Interaction
ASCE SmartBrief | May 17, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: The Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health at the University of British Columbia has been designed to encourage researchers, doctors, and patients to interact while making it easy for impaired patients to find their way. See how it works with your member login.
Play ASCE History and Heritage's "Match Who Said What" today!
ASCE SmartBrief | May 16, 2012
"One of the most serious problems of civilization is clean water and clean air ..." Which prescient civil engineer said this in 1909? Match the correct engineer to that quote, then match nine other quotes to their acclaimed engineers, and you could win an ASCE prize. Take the ASCE History and Heritage "Match Who Said What" challenge. Save the PDF form, complete the answers, and e-mail it back to History and Heritage coordinator Carol Reese at creese@asce.org. The first three players with correct answers will receive special ASCE prizes. Get started now!
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Civil Engineering Projects Receive EPA P3 Grants
ASCE SmartBrief | May 16, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: Civil engineering projects that focus on sustainability are among the 15 winners of the 2012 EPA P3 Awards selected from among entries submitted by 300 university and colleges. Discover the winners with your member login.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Haitian Rubble Homes Offer More than Just Shelter
ASCE SmartBrief | May 15, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: A charitable organization is teaming with faculty and students from a Georgia university to build sturdy homes in Haiti from the rubble left behind by the 2010 earthquake. Get the details with your member login.
Pennsylvania's state transportation chief shares Insights
ASCE SmartBrief | May 15, 2012
Barry J. Schoch P.E., Pennsylvania's secretary of transportation, shares his views on the current challenges and opportunities facing civil engineering in the latest edition of Insights, ASCE's series of podcast interviews with leaders in the profession. With funding for infrastructure a primary challenge, Schoch talks about ways to have a positive influence on officials and the public, such as shifting from highly technical discussions to ones that better relate to people's home life and personal decisions. Listen to Schoch now or download the podcast to enjoy at your convenience. The Insights series is sponsored by ASCE's Industry Leaders Council.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: New Study Calls for Preservation of Route 66
ASCE SmartBrief | May 14, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: A new multiyear economic impact study conducted by researchers at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey -- in collaboration with the National Park Service and the World Monuments Fund -- spotlights communities along the famed Route 66 corridor. Get the details with your member login.
ASCE names Grand Central Terminal a civil engineering landmark
ASCE SmartBrief | May 14, 2012
On the eve of its 100th anniversary, New York City's Grand Central Terminal has been designated by ASCE as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. "Although the Terminal has long been recognized as an architectural landmark, it also represents a triumph in civil engineering -- a fact that goes unnoticed because much of the engineering work that went into the design and construction of the Terminal is largely hidden from public view," said President Andrew Herrmann, P.E., F.ASCE, in announcing the Board's approval. Among the terminal's civil engineering innovations: a design that eliminated crowding problems common in other stations, the first station to use ramps on a large scale, and for pioneering the concept of "air rights" to property over the train yards. The landmark designation will be made official next February with the unveiling of an on-site plaque as part of the terminal's 100th anniversary celebration. Read coverage of the announcement in The New York Times.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Urban Nature Area Takes Shape
ASCE SmartBrief | May 11, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County embraces nature by constructing an extensive network of gardens to attract wildlife and visitors alike. Get the details with your member login.
Visit the all-new ASCE News online
ASCE SmartBrief | May 11, 2012
Find out what's happening in your Society every day with the all-new, web-friendly ASCE News. The monthly newspaper has been relaunched as a regularly updated online report. Stay current with articles featuring recent Society activities, news items from conferences, Sections and Branches, member honors and awards, the ASCE President’s Message and more. Simply click ASCE News on the ASCE home page, or go directly to the new portal, asce.org/ascenews.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Cardboard Cathedral Brings New Hope
ASCE SmartBrief | May 10, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: In Christchurch, New Zealand, an inspiring cathedral made of cardboard is set to rise from the rubble, a symbol of a new beginning in a hard-hit city. Read the inspiring story with your member login.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Washington, D.C., Debates Raising Height Limits
ASCE SmartBrief | May 09, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: As the nation's capital grows, proponents of taller buildings in certain sections of the city face opposition from those who would preserve the city's long-standing height restriction law. Delve into the debate with your member login.
Pipelines 2012 Conference to share advice on "doing more with less"
ASCE SmartBrief | May 09, 2012
In these times, we are often being asked to get more done under tighter resources. That's why planners of the upcoming Pipelines 2012 Conference have adopted the theme, Innovations in Design, Construction, Operations and Maintenance: Doing More with Less. Register early for the best deal to attend what's shaping up as a practical, beneficial program befitting the theme. Set aside Aug. 19–22 to come to the classic Fontainebleau Resort in Miami Beach. Visit the conference website regularly for updates, to sign up once registration opens, and to secure accommodations.
Abstracts on using sustainable materials sought for Japan conference
ASCE SmartBrief | May 08, 2012
Share your experiences in working with sustainable construction materials at an international conference coming in August 2013 to Kyoto, Japan. Abstracts are being sought for the Third International Conference on Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies, known as SCMT3, co-sponsored by ASCE. Deadline for submissions is June 29. For details, visit the English-language introduction to the official conference website, or contact Tarun R. Naik, research professor and academic program director at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Center for By-Products Utilization, at tarun@uwm.edu. See why Kyoto, the old capital of Japan, will be a fascinating host city.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Minority Engineer Magazine Releases Best Employer List
ASCE SmartBrief | May 08, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: The annual readers’ choice awards bestowed by Minority Engineer magazine include several civil engineering firms among a mix of titans including Microsoft, Google, and General Electric. Find out who was honored with your member login.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Cleveland Anticipates Iconic New Bridge
ASCE SmartBrief | May 07, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: A curved, double bascule pedestrian bridge in Cleveland offers an elegant solution to tricky site constraints. Get the details with your member login.
Free ASCE eLearning webinar: How Mentoring Can Help You Achieve Your Career Goals
ASCE SmartBrief | May 07, 2012
Learn how mentoring can help you advance in your career in a new ASCE eLearning webinar coming next week. Mentoring is an important career development tool for civil engineers at all career stages. The right mentor can help you not only clarify your career goals, but also achieve them faster through the help of someone who has already pursued similar goals. By sharing experiences and ideas, both mentors and protégés learn and gain insights, transfer knowledge, and develop a valuable network of professional peers. Karen C. Armfield, P.E., M.ASCE, and Anthony J. Fasano, P.E., LEED AP, M.ASCE, ACC, will host this free members-only eLearning webinar, How Mentoring Can Help You Achieve Your Career Goals, Wednesday, May 16, at 2 p.m. ET, to help you discover how to make these benefits a reality by participating in mentoring through ASCE. Register today at the webinar sign-up page.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Multithemed Museum Features Futuristic Design
ASCE SmartBrief | May 04, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: An ultramodern museum taking shape in northwestern Tennessee uses a variety of building shapes to house educational exhibits on a vast array of topics. Get the details with your member login.
Free webinar: ASCE's new high school outreach program, Civil Engineering Clubs
ASCE SmartBrief | May 04, 2012
If you’ve been thinking about launching an outreach project that builds relationships with students at the high school level, digs deep into engineering, and leaves a lasting impression, your opportunity is here. ASCE-supported Civil Engineering Clubs are being launched across the country. Learn how they will work and how you can take advantage of them in a free one-hour webinar, Wednesday, May 16, at 3 p.m. ET. Members Ken Maschke, P.E., S.E., M.ASCE, of Thornton Tomasetti, Melissa Wu, P.E., M.ASCE, of CH2M HILL, and Tony Cioffi, P.E., M.ASCE, of the City University of New York NYC College of Technology will introduce the club concept and outline concrete steps you can take right now to start a club in your area. ASCE Section, Branch, and Younger Member group leaders are especially invited; the webinar doubles as an appeal to be among the first to test drive the concept and earn the distinction of being a 2012-2013 pilot club. Register by emailing Daryl Morais, manager of Geographic Services, at dmorais@asce.org; deadline is May 14. Webinar course materials, and dial-in/Web access information will be sent to all registered participants a few days before the event.
Get expert foundation design advice in new collection
ASCE SmartBrief | May 03, 2012
If you're a geotechnical engineer, foundation specialist, researcher, or construction engineer, you'll want the new collection, Full-Scale Testing and Foundation Design. Some of the world's leading experts in the field of foundation engineering share their knowledge. The collection is also a tribute to one of the greatest geotechnical engineers, Bengt H. Fellenius, Dr.Tech., P.Eng., and his contributions. Eighteen of the book's 51 papers reprint landmark articles authored or co-authored by Fellenius. Thirty-three additional peer-reviewed papers written especially for this collection present test methods for various types of foundations and describe useful options for many situations, drawing on real-life examples. Pick up Full-Scale Testing and Foundation Design today.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: New Geothermal Source Ideal for Urban Areas
ASCE SmartBrief | May 03, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: A new geothermal system ideal for dense urban environments has come to the United States. The system uses a heat-transfer process to turn large-scale sewer lines into geothermal wells. Get the details with your member login.
$125 live webinar discount now on for a limited time
ASCE SmartBrief | May 02, 2012
Enhance your knowledge and earn PDHs with ASCE's live webinars, providing the latest information from leading experts who can be questioned live, online. As part of continuing efforts to increase value for small firms and individual engineers, ASCE is offering a special discount for individual ASCE members to attend a live webinar. Register no later than May 31 for any upcoming live webinar and save $125 on the registration fee. Visit asce.org/125discount to take advantage of this special offer. This offer is not valid for group attendance. ASCE’s Webinars are comprehensive, proven, quality training and education that meets your needs cost-effectively.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Solar Array at Occidental Combines Art with Energy
ASCE SmartBrief | May 02, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: A ground-mounted solar array on the campus of Occidental College near Los Angeles is designed to follow the undulating topography of the campus grounds. See how it works with your member login.
Enhance your rise as a budding civil engineering leader
ASCE SmartBrief | May 01, 2012
Build on your leadership skills with the tools you'll acquire at the 2012 Emerging Leaders Alliance training workshop. You'll learn how to lead your organization more effectively, better preparing our professional community to address 21st century needs. The workshop will be held Sept. 11-13, near ASCE headquarters in Reston, Va. ASCE will select at least seven members for ELA training, joining members from seven sister engineering societies. Applications are welcome now through June 1. Get details at emergingleadersalliance.org, or contact professional@asce.org.
Civil Engineering online exclusive: Phoenix Extends Light-Rail System
ASCE SmartBrief | May 01, 2012
Among the great new articles only at asce.org/cemagazine: The light-rail system in the Phoenix metro area is expanding after just three and a half years of operation. The first phase of a planned 37-mile extension -- nearly double the current length -- is expected to be ready by 2015. Get the details with your member login.
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