ASCE Association News
Have you seen ASCE's new guide to living near levees?
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 20, 2009
Most people know that levees are built near rivers and lakes to reduce flooding risk, but what does it mean to live behind one? Are your home and loved ones safe from floods? How much protection does the levee really provide? What do you need to know to be safe? ASCE's new public education booklet, "So, You Live Behind a Levee!" was created to answer those questions and more, and to help individuals and communities better protect themselves against future flood threats. Written for both the engineering and non-engineering public, it covers issues such as flood size and risk, signs of trouble, ways to reduce risk, and how to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Get your free copy of "So, You Live Behind a Levee!" and find out how you can order multiple copies of the handy paperback guide at a discount.
Learn streambank stabilization skills for flood control, restoration
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 20, 2009
Get the latest in design guidance for streambank stabilization measures for both restoration and flood control projects in ASCE's upcoming three-day seminar. Traditional "hard" structural-type techniques such as rock riprap, gabions and articulated concrete blocks as well as redirective techniques including bendway weirs, rock vanes and spur dikes are presented along with information on bioengineering solutions. In this course, you will learn the applicability and limitations of the various techniques and recognize the importance of adequate toe protection. Streambank Stabilization for Restoration and Flood Control Projects will take place Dec. 9-11 in Sacramento, Calif. Find out more about the course and sign up today!
Save money on your car insurance using ASCE's partnership with GEICO
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 19, 2009
The Society's special arrangement with GEICO means ASCE members could save significantly on auto insurance. GEICO already provides its customers with low, competitive rates, but you could save as much as 8 percent more, while receiving 24-hour service online or by phone, efficient and fair claim handling, and the peace of mind that comes with being protected by a financially stable company rated A++ by A.M. Best. Call 800-368-2734 for a free rate quote today or visit GEICO's special ASCE page online.
Get up to date on stormwater quality best management practices
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 19, 2009
As water quality regulations continue to become more stringent, it's more important than ever that civil engineers specify stormwater quality Best Management Practices (BMPs) that target specific pollutants of concern. ASCE's new webinar, Stormwater BMPs, will discuss a wide range of BMPs, including wet detention basins, first-flush capture, filtration and infiltration methods, and stormwater wetlands. Commercially available systems also will be discussed along with critical information on long-term effectiveness and maintenance requirements of various BMPs. You will learn about the pollutant removal efficiencies of various BMPs, how to select BMPs for specific pollutant removal, and long-term maintenance requirements for various BMPs. Set aside an hour for the webinar on Monday, Nov. 30, from noon to 1 p.m. ET. For more on the course or to register, visit the course page.
Registration now open for GeoFlorida 2010
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 18, 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.
Ports 2010 seeking student papers and posters
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 18, 2009
Are you a student member who's specializing in ports? ASCE's Coasts, Oceans, Ports, and Rivers Institute invites you to submit your paper or an abstract of a poster concept for Ports 2010: Building on the Past, Respecting the Future. Send your completed undergraduate papers of no longer than eight pages, or abstracts for the graduate and undergraduate poster competition, by Dec. 1. Nominated entrants selected for presentation will be notified on or about Feb. 1. The Ports 2010 conference is set for next April 25 through 28, in Jacksonville, Fla. Find out more about contest submissions at the official Ports 2010 site, or by e-mailing COPRI staff at copri@asce.org.
Beat your peers to the ASCE membership renewal finish line!
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 17, 2009
The home stretch is in sight for this year's Renewal Race! You can still help your Section cross the finish line in first by renewing your 2010 membership before Dec. 1. This year's $1,250 prizes go to the top ASCE small, medium, and large Section with the highest percentage of renewing members. Help your Section win -- renew today!
Learn the latest thinking, techniques in bridge rehabilitation
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 17, 2009
The aging of our bridge infrastructure has made rehabilitation one of the major tasks for state DOTs and local governments. ASCE's upcoming two-day seminar, Bridge Rehabilitation, will focus on critical topics including structure condition evaluation, bridge load rating and rehabilitation analysis, state-of-the-art rehabilitation techniques, alternative study and decision-making models, new material applications, construction methods and constructability analysis. Find out more about the workshop, set for Dec. 3 and 4 in Boston, and register at the course page.
ASCE team views heavy earthquake damage in Indonesia
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 16, 2009
More than 1,100 people were killed and 2,000 injured when a magnitude 7.6 earthquake and a magnitude 6.6 aftershock devastated Padang, Indonesia, on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. Recently, a small ASCE team from the Technical Council on Lifeline Earthquake Engineering witnessed the scale of destruction to local utilities and other infrastructure. With the support of ASCE's Executive Committee, the TCLEE team arrived Oct. 26 to perform a post-earthquake lifeline performance survey. The team gained the cooperation of Padang's mayor, getting quick access to utilities to assess the severity of damage. Read the TCLEE team's preliminary report and see photos of the extensive destruction to infrastructure (PDF). Find out more about TCLEE's work.
Engineers eligible to apply for UNESCO natural sciences directorship
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 13, 2009
Help influence civil engineering decisions on an international scale. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization is seeking a new assistant director-general for natural sciences who will carry out the natural sciences mission, which includes promoting sustainable development and contributing to disaster preparedness and mitigation. Learn more about what the position entails and how to apply. Read and download the official UNESCO announcement (PDF).
Know the world's historic bridges? Take the puzzle challenge and win
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 13, 2009
Are you up on your knowledge of the great bridges of history? ASCE's History & Heritage Committee dares you to solve their crossword puzzle. Download and complete the puzzle (PDF). Send it back to the committee coordinator and if you're one of the first two entrants with correct puzzles, you'll win a special engineering history-oriented prize. Think you can do it? Act now! The first two correct entries will be declared the winners. E-mail the completed crossword to creese@asce.org, or fax it to 866-902-5004. Good luck!
Extend the longevity of aging steel buildings with AEI symposium
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 12, 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 (PDHs) or 6.5 AIA/CES Learning Units. Find out about what more you can learn at the official symposium page.
Meet the engineering genius behind the Ferris wheel
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 12, 2009
In the summer of 1893 at the Columbian Exposition in Chicago, an engineering marvel was unveiled that immediately captured the world's attention -- a towering, web-like giant wheel, standing upright and rotating high above the city. George W. G. Ferris Jr. and his wheel helped usher a nation eager to identify itself with ingenuity, entrepreneurialism, and innovation into the 20th century. Circles in the Sky is the first full-length biography of Ferris, a civil engineer, an inventor, and a pioneer in the development of structural steel in bridge building. The book chronicles the life of the man responsible for creating, designing, and building the Ferris Wheel, the only structure of its time to rival the Eiffel Tower, and the Ferris clan, one of the nation's oldest and most fascinating families. Circles in the Sky will enchant anyone interested in engineering marvels, history, and the Ferris wheel. Order Circles in the Sky at the book page.
Live behind a levee? ASCE's new, free guide offers vital advice
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 11, 2009
Most people know that levees are built near rivers and lakes to reduce flooding risk, but what does it mean to live behind one? Are your home and loved ones safe from floods? How much protection does the levee really provide? What do you need to know to be safe? ASCE's new public education booklet, "So, You Live Behind a Levee!", was created to answer those questions and more, and to help individuals and communities better protect themselves against future flood threats. Written for both the engineering and non-engineering public, it covers issues such as flood size and risk, signs of trouble, ways to reduce risk, and how to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Download, read and save your free electronic copy (PDF; 2MB) of "So, You Live Behind a Levee!"
Don't risk your health or financial stability!
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 11, 2009
Whether you've just graduated, have recently changed jobs, or are otherwise between permanent health insurance plans, you and your savings could be at risk. Even a minor accident or injury could result in thousands of dollars in medical bills, affecting your financial security for years to come. That's why ASCE provides access to the temporary protection of Short Term Medical Insurance from Assurant Health -- to help you obtain the comprehensive coverage you need at affordable rates. Offering a lifetime maximum benefit of $2 million and term options from 30 to 360 days*, you can design a plan that's right for you. Request your no-obligation quote today -- you even could be covered as early as tomorrow!
* Varies by state.
Assurant Health is the brand name for products underwritten and issued by Time Insurance Company.
Get a jolt out of first seismic conference in San Fran
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 10, 2009
Take advantage of a great hotel rate at San Francisco's Hyatt Regency for the inaugural Improving the Seismic Performance of Existing Buildings and Other Structures conference this Dec. 9-11. 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 first conference of its kind. 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.
Spanning 2010, bridges calendar is a great gift
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 10, 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.
Learn to design quality shallow foundations for buildings
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 09, 2009
Gain a broad understanding of the issues encountered by foundation designers in ASCE's upcoming two-day seminar, Design and Strengthening of Shallow Foundations for Conventional and Pre-Engineered Buildings. The course begins with a brief discussion of soil types and how to determine their bearing capacities. The instructor explains the basics of wall and column footing design using longhand calculations, reference tables, and software. You'll follow several step-by-step design examples for combined, cantilever, and eccentric column footings. Design of mats and slabs on grade subjected to concentrated loads follows. Learn more about the workshop, set for Nov. 19 and 20 in Scottsdale, Ariz., and register today.
Place your local ASCE group's news in ASCE News
ASCE SmartBrief | Nov 09, 2009
The Society's monthly newspaper, ASCE News, invites Sections, Branches, student chapters, committees, and other local ASCE organizations to submit newsworthy items for inclusion in the next issue. Articles may cover service projects, research, educational outreach, human interest, and other timely activities that would be of interest to the Society's membership. In addition, ASCE News publishes brief articles about member achievements as well as obituaries. Send queries or potential articles to ascenews@asce.org , or contact Brett Hansen, associate editor of ASCE News, at bhansen@asce.org or 703-295-6041.
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.
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.
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