ASCE Association News
Registration filling up for first seismic-performance conference
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 06, 2009
Come to San Francisco this Dec. 9-11 for the Improving the Seismic Performance of Existing Buildings and Other Structures conference. The Hyatt Regency room rate has been reduced until Nov. 12. The challenges to improving the seismic performance of existing buildings and other structures are as broad and varied as the individual structures themselves. How should they be evaluated and strengthened? What assumptions were made? Were they built as designed, and if not, what modifications were made but possibly (probably) not documented? The Applied Technology Council and ASCE's Structural Engineering Institute are organizing this inaugural conference. More than 20 poster displays are scheduled. Attend and earn up to 16 PDHs. Make your room reservation before the Nov. 12 reduced-rate deadline. Get more details at the official conference site. Check out the great technical program. The schedule also features six keynote plenary speakers and two luncheon speakers, plus a special black tie gala celebrating recent innovations in seismic strengthening.
Help ASCE salute excellence in engineering journalism
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 06, 2009
Have you read a good civil engineering-related news story lately, or know a journalist who consistently covers local projects and activities well? If so, nominate him or her for the 2010 ASCE Excellence in Journalism Award. Through this award, ASCE honors journalists for outstanding news coverage that enhances public understanding of civil engineers and the profession. English-language, U.S.-based, regional or national stories from daily or weekly newspapers, general circulation (non-trade-related) magazines, radio or television programs, and electronic/Web-based (non-trade-related) news outlets are eligible. To be eligible, stories must have been published or broadcast between May 1, 2008, and Oct. 31, 2009. Entries must be postmarked by Dec. 1. For more information on the award, e-mail ASCE's Karen Albers at kalbers@asce.org or go to the award page to download a nomination form.
Association membership remains a great investment
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 05, 2009
These days, what we choose to invest in matters more than ever. One thing you don't have to sacrifice is your ability to continue growing as a professional. Harry Farchmin, P.E., F.ASCE, chairman of ASCE's Membership Committee, recently published a column for civilengineeringcentral.com about what makes this the best time to be a member of an association. Read Farchmin's column for reminders of the value you gain from ASCE membership. Have you renewed for 2010? Visit ASCE's Survive & Thrive site for additional resources to help you navigate these turbulent economic times.
PR University is back!
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 05, 2009
Are you interested in incorporating public relations into your Section/Branch and professional activities? If so, ASCE's PR University is for you! During this full-day, hands-on training at ASCE Headquarters in Reston, Va., on Monday, Dec. 7, our Communications staff will define techniques for effective communication, with an emphasis on media relations and public outreach. Attendees willing to serve as their Section or Branch PR coordinator may be eligible for a workshop "scholarship." Space is limited, so submit your application early. Get more information and a scholarship application from program coordinator Karen Albers at kalbers@asce.org.
Registration now open for GeoFlorida 2010
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 04, 2009
Escape winter this February and enjoy some Florida sun while taking part in the exciting events you've come to expect from a Geo-Institute annual congress. Registration has opened for next year's G-I gathering -- GeoFlorida 2010, in West Palm Beach, Feb. 20-24. The congress will offer a broad perspective on new developments in geotechnical engineering analysis, modeling and design. Technical topics will cover all areas of the profession. What else can you expect in Florida this February? Find out and register at the official GeoFlorida 2010 site.
In Samoa, COPRI team views extensive quake-tsunami damage
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 04, 2009
"The residents here first thought the ground shaking could be a landslide and rushed down to the beach ... Then they realized it was an earthquake ... That's when the tsunami arrived." Last Sunday, a technical assessment team of Coasts, Oceans, Ports, and Rivers Institute members arrived in the Samoan islands to study the impact of the Sept. 29 earthquake and tsunami on the region's infrastructure. The team has shared some early eyewitness impressions in a post at COPRI's official blog. Their efforts follow the Society's disaster response procedure, which supports the formation of technical teams to learn from the damage to infrastructure caused by natural or man-made disasters. For more of what the COPRI team saw and experienced, read their blog posting.
Western Australian water supply honored as ASCE landmark
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 03, 2009
The Goldfields Water Supply, a 351-mile-long pipeline laid in 1902 through western Australia, was dedicated recently as an ASCE International Historic Civil Engineering landmark -- at separate ceremonies at each terminus. When built, the Goldfields line was the longest freshwater pipe in the world and the first major pipeline constructed of steel. "It was an innovative, ambitious and daring water engineering project. Incredibly, more than 100 years later, it is still operating and carrying much-needed water to the Goldfields and agricultural regions," said ASCE International Director Potenciano Leoncio, who came from the Philippines for the ceremonies. Discover more about the Goldfields Water Supply's history and the dedication ceremonies as they were covered by the nation's leading newspaper, The Australian.
Fifth Forensic Congress less than two weeks away
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 03, 2009
Would you like to know more about the hows and whys of structural failure? Register for the 5th Congress on Forensic Engineering, set for the Madison Hotel in Washington, D.C., Nov. 11-14. Earn up to 22 development hours through technical sessions and the two workshops, Forensic Engineering Practices and Facade Forensics. Enjoy a reception and lecture at the National Building Museum as Dr. Henry Petroski delivers the keynote address. Go to the official Forensic Congress site and register now!
Conference takes engineers "From Builders to Integrators"
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 02, 2009
The Society's 139th Annual Conference in Kansas City, Mo., ended with laughs, plus a desire to help others. Comedian, pundit and actor Ben Stein provided the laughs at the closing general session breakfast, while also stressing that investment in infrastructure, and more of it, is what has and will keep our nation great. Sunday, members volunteered their time and labor at Heartland Therapeutic Riding in nearby Stillwell, Kan., in the annual post-conference community service event. Heartland provides therapy to children and adults with disabilities through interaction with horses. Next year's 140th Conference is set for Las Vegas -- mark your 2010 calendar for Oct. 21-23. View a photo gallery of Conference highlights; more photos are being added. Review the Conference program. Learn more about ways to give your time and promote the profession through ASCE-sponsored volunteer activities.
Save now: Take ASCE online courses for 33% off!
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 02, 2009
So ASCE members can take greater advantage of the convenience, flexibility and effectiveness of our on-demand, online courses, prices are being discounted 33% through the end of the year. Simply enter Promotion Code ASCE33 at checkout to receive the discount. Completing an online course and passing the online test will help you fulfill your continuing education requirements by the upcoming Dec. 31 deadline for P.E. license renewal in many states. A recent Education Department study found that students who learned online did better than those getting face-to-face instruction. See the variety of online courses available, and register to save 33%!
Nominate an outstanding college or university engineering program
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 30, 2009
Help ASCE recognize the engineering department at your college or university by submitting a nomination for the 2010 Walter LeFevre Award. Presented in the categories of large and small programs, the LeFevre Award was established in 2007 to recognize academic departments at colleges and universities for promoting licensure, ethics and professionalism. The 2009 LeFevre Award recipients are the U.S. Military Academy (large program) and the University of Evansville (small program). Visit the award page to read about these award-winning programs, and to learn how you can nominate your program for the 2010 LeFevre Award. Nominations are due Jan. 15. Don't miss this chance for your program to be recognized.
New videos prove why they're 2009 Distinguished Members
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 30, 2009
Get to know the people behind the names of the 10 new Distinguished Members who were inducted formally Thursday at the Annual Conference. Fascinating, brief video biographies highlighting the achievements of each professional are now available. Distinguished Membership is the highest accolade bestowed by ASCE, short of becoming President. Watch the videos at a special Honors and Awards page.
ASCE's Annual Conference Kicks Off in Kansas City: Get alerts and follow the activities on Twitter and Facebook
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 29, 2009
Kansas City, here they come. ASCE members and friends of civil engineering have converged on Kansas City, Mo., for the Society's 139th Annual Conference, officially opening today. With the theme From Builders to Integrators -- Civil Engineers Leading the Way, the conference aims to change the public perception of civil engineering, so the profession can take a greater leadership role in helping the nation tackle its infrastructure challenges. This year, the Conference is on Twitter and Facebook. Stay on top of Conference schedules and events on your cell phone, PDA or laptop, and even share your views.
- On Twitter, track the Conference by following ASCENational, and use #ASCE09 when tweeting about Conference events.
- On Facebook, join the event ASCE's 139th Annual Civil Engineering Conference. ASCE staff are tweeting and monitoring, and will respond with help to any inquiries.
See the schedule of events and activities at the official Annual Conference site.
Design storm sewer systems using the EPA model
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 28, 2009
Storm sewer design requires an understanding of urban hydrology, surface flow hydraulics, inlet hydraulics and pipe flow hydraulics, and often an understanding of the computer software that is used for analysis. Attend ASCE's upcoming two-day seminar and come away knowing the entire process of designing a storm sewer system. While the course is based on the current version of the EPA Storm Water Management Model, it includes other important analyses that are not part of SWMM. Find out more about the workshop, to take place Nov. 12 and 13 in Las Vegas, and sign up today.
Are you an engineer ready for a shot at TV stardom?
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 28, 2009
A nationwide search is under way to find a host for a new major cable network series that will focus on exposing the nation's failing infrastructure and advocating for restoration and repair. The show's host will have a dogged dedication to exposing neglected infrastructure and the fearlessness it takes to stand face-to-face with the powers that be and demand change. If you have good communication skills, a wide array of engineering experiences and are committed to improving the nation's infrastructure, this could be the opportunity for you! Previous on-camera experience is not required. All candidates must submit a bio/resume, recent headshot and candid photo(s), and a statement explaining what makes you a good candidate. Video statements are a plus. Nominations are due no later than Oct. 30. For more information or to submit your nomination, send an e-mail to media@asce.org.
ASCE provides a 'roadmap' to civil engineering's future
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 27, 2009
Newly released, Achieving the Vision for Civil Engineering in 2025: A Roadmap for the Profession marks the culmination of almost eight years of effort by ASCE to involve the profession in redefining what it will mean to be a civil engineer in tomorrow's world. The original Vision 2025 report drew on the collective wisdom of more than 60 experts from around the world to create an appeal for civil engineers to take on an enhanced leadership role in society, one that improves the quality of life while creating a more sustainable world. Vision 2025 calls on civil engineers to control their own destiny, rather than letting events control it for them, and the new Roadmap shows the way. Put the principles of Vision 2025 into practice. Read and download copies of the new Roadmap and the original Vision for Civil Engineering in 2025 report, and find out what more you can do at the Vision 2025 page.
Learn to design foundations to withstand dynamic loads
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 27, 2009
Gain a better understanding of the design and evaluation of shallow and pile foundations subjected to dynamic loads, such as rotating machines and seismic events, with ASCE's three-day seminar, Design of Foundations for Dynamic Loads. Topics to be discussed include basic principles of soil dynamics and geotechnical earthquake engineering; response and design of shallow and pile foundations to rotating machine loads; remedial measures for machine foundations; evaluation of soil springs for seismic analysis; and solved seismic design examples for shallow foundations, retaining walls and caissons. See what else you'll learn Nov. 11 to 13 in Tampa, Fla. Visit the course page and register today.
Sections: Rev your engines for membership renewal
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 26, 2009
The ASCE Renewal Race is still in the early laps. Help your Section make a title run by renewing your 2010 Society membership. This year, you can win money for your Section when you renew -- here's how: ASCE will give $1,250 to the top small, medium and large Section with the highest percentage of renewing members by Dec. 1. Check out ASCE's special Renewal Race Series page for complete details -- and see where your Section ranks on the leaderboard. Your Section can cross the finish line in first -- renew your membership today!
Learn to analyze stability of soil and rock slopes
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 23, 2009
Because slopes consist of native or moving earth, their engineering properties and behaviors are variable and quite unpredictable. Surface water runoff and groundwater infiltration that can trigger landslides often compounds the difficulty. Today, analysis and solutions as well as prevention of landslide problems requires an understanding of geology, hydrology, seismology, geotechnical exploration and engineering, computerized analytical methods, and practical and constructible engineering solutions. ASCE's two-day seminar, Soil and Rock Slope Stability, will get you familiar with the concepts, targeting three main areas: collecting and evaluating geologic and geotechnical data; analytical methods for soil and rock slopes; and stabilization methods. Find out more about the seminar, to be held Nov. 5-6 in Cincinnati, and sign up today.
Extend the longevity of aging steel buildings with AEI symposium
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 23, 2009
Take advantage of an opportunity to share ideas and learn new ways of extending the life of steel-framed buildings as ASCE's Architectural Engineering Institute and the Steel and Ornamental Institutes of New York invite you to attend Aging Buildings: Designing for Longevity. Set for Dec. 9 at the McGraw-Hill Conference Center in New York, the event will bring together distinguished and experienced practitioners who are recognized leaders in the field. Among the topics to be discussed: innovations in building envelope engineering, performance history of curtain wall and glazing systems, re-cladding for longevity, performance lessons from forensic investigations, longevity and sustainable design, AISC green design, and more. Register by Dec. 2 and get $50 off the registration fee. Attendees will earn 6.5 Professional Development Hours or 6.5 AIA/CES Learning Units. Find out about what more you can learn at the official symposium page.
Webinar helps you account for sight distance in roadway design
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 22, 2009
Effective roadway design and operation depends on factoring in sight distances. Poor design for sight distance adversely affects safety and can result in collisions. Higher crash rates could even result in tort litigation against the agency holding the right of way. ASCE's upcoming webinar, Sight Distance, will identify the different types of sight distance that are important and the guidelines that are applicable to each type of sight distance. You'll learn the various sources for sight distance guidelines and when quick reference summaries can be used to identify the best sources. Recent research by the Transportation Research Board on aspects of sight distance is also covered. Set aside noon to 1:30 p.m. ET on Friday, Oct. 30, for this enlightening webinar. Register today!
Annual Conference to feature dynamic opening, closing speakers
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 22, 2009
The 139th annual gathering of ASCE is around the corner, Oct. 29-31 in Kansas City, Mo. Are you ready? You'll see Erik Peterson, founder of the Seven Revolutions project, explain at the Opening Plenary how his project may just shape the next 20 years. At the Closing General Session, enjoy pundit, actor and comedian Ben Stein, who will discuss the astronomical tasks of rebuilding both the American economy and infrastructure. It's not too late to sign up and come to Kansas City -- find out how at the official conference site.
State public affairs grants of $7,500 available
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 21, 2009
Your local ASCE group can get as much as $7,500 to fund worthy projects! It's that time of year to put together your Section's 2010 State Public Affairs Grant proposals. SPAG grants provide financial and technical support to Sections and Branches that engage in efforts to enhance the image of civil engineers as leaders and experts on infrastructure, as well as projects that encourage advocacy on issues important to engineers. Don't let this opportunity pass. Read and download the guidelines for submitting 2010 SPAG proposals (PDF). Deadline is Oct. 30.
Get a refresher in design, renovation of wood structures
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 21, 2009
Take a two-day ASCE seminar that will give you practical answers to a multitude of questions about the design and renovation of wood framing. While the discussion is focused on wood-framed buildings, much of the material applies to other wood structures as well. The first day is devoted to design and construction practices of various wood framing components: joists, rafters, columns, studs, connections, trusses, and engineered lumber. Drawing on decades of consulting and forensic experience, the instructor presents many proven design details, including those for difficult roof configurations. Set aside Nov. 5-6 and come to Boston for Design and Renovation of Wood Structures; learn more about the seminar and register today.
CI's 2009 New York Student Day a great success
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 20, 2009
At the Bronx, N.Y., site of the Willis Avenue Bridge reconstruction project, ASCE's Construction Institute recently inspired more than 75 college students with a glimpse of the real world of civil engineering and the many professional opportunities open to them following graduation. CI's second Student Days event saw students from 12 universities take part. The program consisted of a tour of the $612 million bridge project, with speakers from the major organizations involved. Students gained a firsthand look at the entire lifecycle of a major construction project. See background on the bridge project at the Student Days site. Find out about future and past CI Student Days events, and other activities of the Construction Institute.
Are you ready for a shot at TV stardom?
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 20, 2009
A nationwide search is under way to find a host for a new major cable network series that will focus on exposing the nation's failing infrastructure and advocating for restoration and repair. The show's host will have a dogged dedication to exposing neglected infrastructure, and the fearlessness it takes to stand face-to-face with the powers-that-be and demand change. If you have good communication skills, a wide array of engineering experiences and are committed to improving the nation's infrastructure, this could be the opportunity for you! Previous on-camera experience is not required. All candidates must submit a bio/resume, recent headshot and candid photo(s), and a statement explaining what makes you a good candidate. Video statements are a plus. Nominations are due no later than Oct. 30. For more information or to submit your nomination, send an e-mail to media@asce.org.
Congrats to iPod winner -- consulting engineer survey still open
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 19, 2009
Congratulations to Timothy Granata, winner of an iPod Nano for completing the ASCE Consulting Engineering Practice Survey as of Oct. 14. He was chosen in a random drawing of all those who filled out the survey. Even if it's too late for the iPod, you can still be a winner! Complete the Manual 45 Update Survey and you'll receive a $10 discount on the purchase of any ASCE publication. Even without the incentives, it pays for you to help us update Manual 45, How to Work Effectively With Consulting Engineers, to make it a current, accurate and valuable reference you'll rely on. Thanks to everyone who has completed the survey; if you haven't, take it today (requires member login). For more information on Manual 45 or the survey, contact Becky Waldrup at rwaldrup@asce.org.
Association membership remains great investment
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 19, 2009
These days what we choose to invest in matters more than ever. One thing you don't have to sacrifice is your ability to continue growing as a professional. Harry Farchmin, P.E., F.ASCE, chairman of ASCE's Membership Committee, recently published a column for civilengineeringcentral.com about what makes this the best time to be a member of an association. Read Farchmin's article for reminders of the value you gain from ASCE membership. Have you renewed for 2010? Visit ASCE's Survive & Thrive site for additional resources to help you navigate these turbulent economic times.
Free online workshop: Are you on the right career path?
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 16, 2009
After graduating from college and entering the workforce, forging a successful civil engineering career direction can be a daunting task. Every engineer's path is as different as their interests and skills. Make sure your path leads to success by attending a free upcoming ASCE eLearning Workshop, Career Paths in Civil Engineering. JP Mohsen, Ph.D., M.ASCE, professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Louisville, will host this online event with ASCE on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 7:30 p.m. ET. The workshop is free for ASCE members only. Learn more and register.
AAWRE salutes its first 500 water resources engineering Diplomates
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 15, 2009
More than 500 water resources engineers have achieved the Diplomate, Water Resources Engineers (D.WRE) certification since its inception five years ago through the American Academy of Water Resources Engineers. Another 18 individuals have received special Honorary Diplomate (Hon.D.WRE) status. These professionals exemplify and embody the very best in the broad field of water resources engineering, from academia, public service, and private practice. To merit the certification, each professional engineer must have demonstrated the highest level of achievement in water resources engineering through their water resources engineering experience, advanced level of education, and contributions to the engineering profession. The academy congratulates and thanks each of its Founding 500 Diplomates for their significant contributions to water resources engineering. AAWRE is a non-profit organization formed in 2004 by members of the ASCE's Environmental and Water Resources Institute (EWRI) and is the first academy created under Civil Engineering Certification, Inc. (CEC). Interested in certification? Learn more about the program at the official AAWRE page.
Explore strategies for residential land development with seminar
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 15, 2009
Learn how to expand your role in the industry and think outside the box with ASCE's upcoming two-day seminar, Residential Land Development Strategies. The workshop is the only national learning experience presenting practical and useful tools of the trade for hot and soft markets. Case studies and hands-on exercises illustrate the basics of developing land for financial success. Set aside Nov. 5 and 6 and come to Tampa, Fla. Find out more about the course and register today.
2010 Pipelines Conference abstracts sought by Oct. 21 deadline
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 14, 2009
If you've had a great learning experience to share in work involving pipelines, ASCE invites you to consider writing a paper for Pipelines Conference 2010. Submit an abstract of up to 500 words on a subject reflecting the conference theme, "Climbing New Peaks to Infrastructure Reliability: Renew, Rehab and Reinvest." Abstracts are due by next Wednesday, Oct. 21. Accepted authors will be notified by Nov. 12. Pipelines Conference 2010 will be held at the Keystone Resort & Conference Center in Dillon, Colo., Aug. 28 to Sept. 1, 2010. Offer your abstract via the online submission site. A copy of the Call for Papers brochure is available for download. Find out more about plans for the conference.
Get up to speed on HEC-RAS water software
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 14, 2009
ASCE's upcoming, intensive three-day seminar and workshop provides the practical, hands-on training you need in the Hydrologic Engineering Center's River Analysis System (HEC-RAS) program. It covers steady flow water surface profiles, bridge hydraulics, and flood plain information studies. The course fee includes software and user's manuals. This seminar will take place Nov. 4-6 in Norfolk, Va. Find out more and register today!
Sections: Start your engines for membership renewal
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 13, 2009
The ASCE Renewal Race is under way! Help your Section make a title run by renewing your 2010 Society membership. This year, you can win money for your Section when you renew -- here's how: ASCE will give $1,250 to the top small, medium and large Section with the highest percentage of renewing members by Dec. 1. Check out ASCE's special Renewal Race Series page for complete details -- and be sure to visit each week to see where your Section ranks on the leaderboard. Your Section can cross the finish line in first -- renew your membership today!
Retrofit buildings to withstand wind and seismic events
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 13, 2009
Know the latest techniques in upgrading buildings to tolerate wind and seismic loads with ASCE's upcoming two-day seminar. During the course, you'll learn to investigate field conditions and the ways of reinforcing each major framing system -- steel, wood, concrete and masonry. Proposed solutions include traditional and proven approaches as well as new and emerging technologies. Typical code provisions for lateral-load retrofit and their common interpretations are covered. Several case studies will illustrate the process of designing a program for lateral load strengthening. Wind and Seismic Retrofit of Buildings will be Oct. 29 and 30 in Baltimore. Find out more and sign up at the course page.
Spanning 2010, new bridges calendar makes a great gift
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 12, 2009
ASCE has taken the wraps off its new bridges calendar for 2010, and the 12 images of some of the world's greatest spans are stunning. Not only will the calendar add a beautiful touch to wherever it's hung, its 14" by 24" size means it's great for noting appointments, birthdays and anniversaries. The calendar can be imprinted with your firm's name and logo, so your clients and friends will feel your goodwill year-round. Discounts for multiple copies of Bridges 2010 start with as few as two. Find out how to order, plus get a sneak peek of each month's image.
Take the LEAD with ASCE's program on leadership skills
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 09, 2009
Calling all rising leaders and engineering managers: Do you want to see your leadership skills and confidence improve dramatically? Sign up for the Society's LEAD Program, set to begin Nov. 12 at ASCE headquarters in Reston, Va. In eight sessions over eight months, you'll learn and develop skills that can be used immediately in your professional and personal life, and benefit from interactive sessions with faculty and classmates. You'll also earn up to 45 PDHs/4.5 CEUs. Learn more about LEAD, including a course outline, benefits, dates, and online registration, or contact Melissa Prelewicz at mprelewicz@asce.org.
EWRI's 2010 India conference registration open
ASCE SmartBrief | Oct 09, 2009
Join a discussion with fellow engineers about water resources and the environment, especially that of developing countries, this January -- and take in beautiful India at the same time. Registration has opened for India 2010: 3rd International Perspective on Current & Future State of Water Resources & the Environment, a conference organized and sponsored by ASCE's Environmental & Water Resources Institute and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras. Attendees will engage in an exciting technical program presented by some of the world's leading engineers, scientists and planners. An emphasis will be on global effects of regional issues and solutions. Mark your 2010 calendar for Jan. 5-7 in Chennai, India. For more on topics, registration and accommodations, visit the official conference site.
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