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Meet the ASCE Collaborate Topic Moderators

Topic Moderators add value to the discussion, increase the body of knowledge, and nurture the ASCE Collaborate Community. Find out a little more about them.

Daniel Bressler, EIT, A.M.ASCE

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Daniel Bressler, EIT, A.M.ASCE, Junior Structural Engineer, Stratford Engineering 

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

ASCE Collaborate is a great platform to share and exchange ideas and have positive discussions. The sharing of ideas and positive discussions is essential for growth and development. By having open forums, new topics and conversations can be had with people of varying background allowing for some interesting insight. By furthering conversation we are helping to further the civil engineering profession.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

Have confidence in yourself. Always be open to new opportunities to grow. Don’t be afraid or nervous to ask for help, ask questions, email someone or have a conversation.

Why did you become a civil engineer?

I was always handy and trying to figure out how things worked, I liked science as was good at math. So pretty much I was a catalyst to become a civil engineer.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

I enjoy the creativity, problem solving and people skills that come with a day’s work.

Hala Abdo, E.I.T.

 Hala.jpgHala Abdo, E.I.T., Road and Drainage EIT at FAM Construction, LLC. 

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

I do believe that each one of us has some knowledge to share no matter our experience. Also, as a civil engineer, I reflect my curiosity with same and different minded colleagues both on the national and international level on this platform. From being an ASCE student member to becoming a young professional, networking with fellow civil engineers supported me both professionally and personally and there is no better way to give back to others even on a virtual platform

 

Horacio Galicia-Gaona, ING. S.E., M.ASCE



Horacio Galicia-Gaona, ING. S.E., M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

I think that the civil engineering, like all other science and arts, it grows sharing and discussing so many point of views as possible. For me, the most important at the engineers work is the creativity and I consider that a good way to develop it is observing, critiquing and trying to understand what other yet think or do and, finally apply adapted or innovative ideas to solve our regional situations.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

Young people are impetuous, and that impetus must be directed towards helping to improve the conditions of their people.  Civil engineers have a large part of the development potential of our cities in our hands.

Why did you become a civil engineer?

I don't know ... I think I always liked being an engineer ... fixing, building, inventing things, ... mathematics and physics;  As a child I was amazed by the buildings and bridges that I saw when I passed through Mexico City, so ... I'm learning how to make them.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

What I enjoy the most is being involved in the construction of something I designed, seeing what was in my head materialize.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

The most challenging project for me has been the "Puente Terrero", 120m in total length, and the highest I have designed (17m from the footings to the road level) and passes over a river with a 10m depth of water.  If you want to know it, this is its location 19 ° 02'54 "N 102 ° 39'12" W and you can contact me to share photos of it.

Dr. Reza Mokarram Aydenloo, Ph.D, C.ENG, P.E., S.E., M.ASCE


Dr. Reza Mokarram Aydenloo, Ph.D, C.ENG, P.E., S.E., M.ASCE

Professional engineer of structural design and seismic rehabilitation - Author of specialized book in Elsevier

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

I believe that due to the existence of specialists in various fields of civil engineering in ASCE collaborate, we can access the best answers in the shortest time by participating in the forums by expressing questions, challenges and experiences.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

Career life is like a road, It is not clear where it will end, if you do not know where you want to be. So set a goal based on your best interests and abilities with all your focus and strength. If you have doubts about identifying that goal, you can get help from the mentors in ASCE Collaborate mentors are here to pave the way for your future career.

Do you agree that by helping people we know, their talents may be seen and their lives changed?

Do you know that many talented people, given that they can not show their abilities, unfortunately deviate from the main path and goal of their creativity and also do not achieve their ideals. Maybe we can develop talent in someone.

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

Ever since I got to know my abilities, I have come to realize that I love high-rise structures. It is a great feeling to see that by constructing a safe structure I can give a sense of peace to a family and society. If I was going to be born again and choose a job, I would still be a civil engineer.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

From childhood, my family raised me in such a way that I wanted to teach what I was learning to others so that the most enjoyable part of my career is gaining experience in the filed of design and seismic rehabilitation on professional projects and teaching it to others as an author of specialized books. In this regard, today I have been able to write several volumes of specialized books in the field of seismic rehabilitation.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

So far, I have faced three project challenges in my professional career life :

1) Design of the first high-rise structure

A project with specifications, 20 floors on the ground with an area of approximately 25,000 square meters in a special position for a precise employer. I was full of stress whether I could finish my work successfully. I did a lot of hard work several times modeling, optimization and special controls and ...., I was so focused on my work deeply . Even when I slept, I dreamed of structural design and my mind was occupied with it. It's been 11 years since it was designed, people live in it, sometimes I pass in front of the project.I remember those days and I smile. I do not think there is anything more enjoyable for me or any engineer than to see the results of efforts in a project.


2)seismic rehabilitation of special project 

In March 2014, a professional company introduced me to a special project for seismic rehabilitation. The main demand of the employer was to increase the area and general changes in the architecture of plan and facade. Existing structure designed and built several years ago, had 17 floors of concrete structures. In addition to seismic rehabilitation, I had to redesign it. In this regard, I thoroughly studied and evaluated the increasing of 7 new floors on the existing structure, so that I could finally find a best solution to strengthen the existing structure. I demolished two floors of existing concrete structure and added seven floors of new steel structure on it , finally designed and presented its complete details, I tried with all my strength and interest for a year and completed the project. Today I see the result of my efforts, a building with special and beautiful face in 22-floors with an area of 41,000 square meters. Every time I watch this movie, I forget the tiredness of those days. This is a very special feeling, I wish you experience this feeling about your project as well.


3) Writing a specialized book for Elsevier Publications

Finally, in 2018, I managed to sign a contract with Elsevier Publications to publish my book. It is true that I had written three books before and I had enough experience. But publishing the book internationally was a new experience. I had to be more careful, my audience had increased. In this regard, I tried hard for 2 years. I even remember working up to 15 hours a day for the last 6 months. Eventually the hardships ended and the book was published in 2020.

Salvador Bentolila, P.E., ENV SP, M.ASCE

 

Salvador Bentolila, P.E., ENV SP, M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

I think we are always at some point in our career where we needed someone else’s advice or mentoring, especially during the early years. As one grows in the career and becomes more experienced, I think it becomes a responsibility to give back and replenish that knowledge given to us so the younger generations can benefit from it.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

Try to get exposure to as many possible different areas in engineering as possible. As you start out your career, you might have an idea of what you want to do, which may or may not be right. The easiest way to find out is by getting involved with different projects and disciplines so you can then have criteria and a basis for comparison.

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

Construction projects always amazed me in terms of the level of coordination and complexity involved. I was given the opportunity before graduating high school of interning at a large construction project which hooked me in for the Civil Engineering career.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

The ability to wear different hats and build relationships with different stakeholders. Because each stakeholder behaves and has to be managed differently, your ability to adapt accordingly becomes and tough but super valuable skill that can be used in your personal life too.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

A Rainwater Harvesting Project at a local school in a remote village in Kenya. The scope of the project was actually really simple, but completing the design on our owns (the project was part of EWB), raising funds, coordinating with local people, finding the construction materials and actually building added other layers of complexity.

Dr. Andres Guzman, ING., M.ASCE

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Dr. Andres Guzman, ING., M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

ASCE Collaborate is an excellent opportunity to share our knowledge with young and former engineers and also with colleagues around the world. We can talk not only about technical issues but also about our profession, including ethical issues.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

As a civil engineering professor, I always tell my students to dedicate their work to serve, to do everything in the right way. I also tell them to be involved in different activities (sports, music, arts, other disciplines) to increase their knowledge and acquire new points of view in facing the daily practice. 

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

I’ve always liked mathematics and physics. I like to know how everything works. Last but not least in importance, my university is the best in my home country (Colombia), and I wanted to learn and know with the best.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

I enjoy helping others with no reward in mind. I can design any structure I can imagine and watch how it grows when it is constructed. That is beautiful. 

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

Right now I am involved in a project (a concrete building to serve as an art school) that uses different design disciplines, and during construction all conditions changed (soils, materials). The project needs to be verified for every new load that appears during construction.

Jayvon Garth, P.E., M.ASCE



Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

Network. This allows civil engineers around the world to collaborate & share ideas that can provide guidance in their profession. From career advice, to ideas for solving problems they may face in a project. Nothing from a career growth standpoint is more valuable than having an environment where people share the same professional passion, learning and sharing their ideas & experience for all of us to learn.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

Understand that communication is going to be a huge key in the growth of your career. Learn how to communicate with others, and learn how to listen to others who are communicating with you.

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

I wanted to design roller coasters. In middle school I discovered a civil engineering degree and pretty much stuck with it. Along the way I learned that it could be used for building design and now I’m working as a structural engineer designing buildings. I never had any exposure in civil engineering or even knew of an engineer until my junior year of college so becoming a civil engineer has been a “faith walk” for me.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

Solving complex problems and being in an environment where I can learn something new each day. I also enjoy the uniqueness of my career, such that students I talk to are typically being exposed to civil engineering for the first time. I love exposing students to civil engineering & seeing their reaction to projects & examples they have never seen before.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

I can’t really point to a specific project that has been challenging, but one thing about my work that proves to be challenging is figuring out the best way to make clients happy while protecting the public. I thought that I would just be performing analysis & design but I find that I spend time considering the psychological impacts of my work to people.

Nicolai Oliden, P.E., M.ASCE



Nicolai Oliden, P.E., M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

We always have to be thinking about the future of our profession. When we contribute to ASCE Collaborate, we help mold those upcoming engineers and provide that guidance so they become even better than we could have ever been ourselves.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

Keep your head up while you work. Don't be so singularly focused that you miss opportunities to advance, grow yourself, and serve your team. 

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

I watched my dad work in the construction industry and then eventually move into engineering. I always loved the idea of helping the community from behind the curtain. Nobody really thinks about civil engineers until something is going wrong, yet our work impacts everyone.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

Working with people. I learned fairly quickly that engineering isn't all about number crunching. I love interacting with other engineers on projects and working together to come up with unique design solutions.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

My most challenging project was the SR202L South Mountain Freeway. It wasn't as challenging technically as it was just a LOT of work with a limited team (just me and one intern). I worked 300 overtime hours in 3 months but we met every deadline for the project.

Ari Daniels, P.E., M.ASCE



Ari Daniels, P.E., M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?


My life and my work share a common theme: continuous improvement. One of the best resources for almost any knowledge‐based process is an experienced/exposed human mind. All the textbooks, manuals, and articles in the world won’t equal the minds that have produced them or consumed them. And no reference manual/tool is flexible enough (yet…) to answer all possible thoughtful questions. People are crucial, and Collaborate is a great hub! And for the civil engineering profession as a whole? See the question below, “what do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?”

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

Make sure you study and make moves toward what excites you, since work is such a huge part of life. It may be many incremental steps before you land (or make) your “dream job,” but keep orienting yourself toward that which gives you energy, rather than takes it. And be flexible, broadly and generally. Which is stronger, the oak or the palm?

Why did you become a civil engineer?

I’ll distill this one, since it’s kind of thick. I have always been an engineer in the general sense of the word. I wanted to study physics, but a wise guidance counselor in high school told me to study engineering (I think specifically mechanical, given my interests). I originally studied mechanical engineering in college, but the limited focus areas of that degree at my university at the time (no direct connection to environmental engineering, either energy or water), combined with a “eureka” moment in Probability and Statistics (that an overarching goal of many manufacturers/producers is to maximize profits, not optimize quality/function), caused me to switch to civil/environmental, and I ended up with greater focus on some passions of mine, water resources and environmental engineering. Basically, this is where I thought I could be of most service.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

The work is always applicable and necessary. I never question whether my work is valuable. The magnitude of the value of my work may be in question – for example is this little bioretention worth the time and money? But civil engineering is truly necessary, and I focus on the need, rather than the want. Fundamental needs of the human organism: food, water, shelter, medicine. Well, I’m connected to all of those to some degree, and I’d give our profession a solid 3 out of 4 on this.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

Hmm. I’ll interpret the question as including “within the realm of engineering.” :‐) My most challenging projects have largely been difficult due to human factors – plan/permit reviewers, over‐involved HOA members, ridiculous legal constraints – rather than technical factors. My single most challenging project was my smallest project, ironically: a tiny wet swale ‐ turned vegetated swale ‐ turned infiltration trench ‐ turned abandoned infiltration trench ‐ turned basic rain garden/conservation landscape ‐ which should have just stayed a wet/vegetated swale. It took over three years to wrap up (with me renting equipment and doing it myself) and helped me coin the phrase “death by checklist.” The most challenging technical projects I’ve faced were the “what were these people thinking?” situations that require re‐engineering. Starting from scratch is almost always much easier than starting from “oops.”

Alexander Granato, A.M.ASCE



Alexander Granato, A.M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering

profession as a whole?

I believe that because Civil Engineers are mostly recognized for creating the infrastructure that
developed countries use every day, most media do not fully recognize the responsibilities of the
profession. Although fields like Information Technology are rising in popularity right now,
engineering still has difficulty getting the recognition that it deserves.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

I remind people that they are all living a different type of career with a different type of career
focus. Whether we are working on a project as a team or not, we will all face another challenge
and need to discover new skills to get the job done. To that end, everyone needs to be true to
themselves about their place in their careers and reach out to larger organizations to see the
bigger picture.

Why did you become a civil engineer?

When I went to Metro Early College High School, there was a FIRST Robotics Club that offered
to take students to annual competitions after designing and constructing each robot. Having
been able to visualize designs in three dimensions ever since preschool, I joined the mechanical
engineering section and decided to major in that at Ohio State. After more examination of the
engineering majors, however, I realized Civil Engineering covered other interests of mine as
well and shifted to that major.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?
The major has introduced me to several different topics that are involved with design and
maintenance, like surveying and graphics. The major also allowed me to have Technical
Electives that were about geodetics and the environment, fitting my standard approach of
organizing work and examining the minor details within it.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?
In March of 2018, I joined a Make OHI/O thon to complete a challenge: construct and
demonstrate an alpha prototype of an original idea within twenty‐four hours. Achieving that is
taking a design idea, finding resources to build the planned design, and a demonstration to
judges when all the work was done.

To that end, I set up a team with three other students, and we met twice beforehand to figure
out what our prototype would be. We agreed to a “smart” medicine dispenser that would use
Arduino programming to ask random passerby what kind of medicine they needed, identify that
person, and unlock one of those pills. Because I created the team, all four of us had a plan,
documentation, and distributed responsibilities when the twenty‐four‐hour period began. In
turn, our team obtained all the necessary resources and realized all the remaining steps for
completing the alpha prototype. The team won the Top Tier award after presenting the final
results.


Figure 1: The ”Smart” Medicine Dispenser

Rafael Estrada Moncada, EI, A.M.ASCE



Rafael Estrada Moncada, EI, A.M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

I think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the Civil Engineering profession as a whole to continue moving conversations forward and to give space to share, talk and reflect on them.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

The typical advice I tell someone early in their civil engineer career is to ask questions, be open to criticism, and take charge of your career.

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

I became a civil engineer to protect our environment for future generations.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

I enjoy most working with the Client and Contractor to build the project according to the approved plans and specifications we designed.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

Studying for the P.E. has been the most challenging project I have ever completed. Working full time as a consulting engineer, being newly married, and living in a pandemic, made my study schedule that more challenging.

Heidi Wallace, EI, P.E., M.ASCE

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Heidi Wallace, EI, P.E., M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

When we share ideas in a way that is receptive to feedback, we grow both ourselves and our community of engineers. Maybe someone has already found a solution to something that you're struggling with. Maybe you have a perspective on a topic that others can use to broaden their outlook. Maybe no one has a full solution but together we can bring our individual perspectives together to find the next steps. When our ideas and perspectives remain within our little bubbles, we limit our ability to find collaborative solutions that best serve our communities and our profession.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

Don't just ask about the "what" but also the "why" behind what you are designing. For example, if you just ask what pipe material you need for this waterline project and don't ask why, you'll have to ask every single time. When you start to understand the reason behind the design choices, it grows your ability to "think like an engineer."

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

Civil engineering seemed like the intersection of several of my interests in high school: math/science, community service, and communication. When I was thinking about studying engineering, I went to an engineering camp at a university to learn more about the different options within engineering. One of the draws of civil for me was that I didn't have to have a masters right away to go into the workforce. Another benefit was that civil engineering doesn't restrict where you can live since civil engineers are needed everywhere.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

One of my favorite things about being a civil engineer is seeing the positive impact made in our community through our projects. Whether it is something as simple as streetscaping in downtown or the redevelopment of a historic building for recovery housing to combat mental health struggles and homelesness, it is rewarding to be part of the team that made these projects come to life.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

My most challenging project so far was probably an apartment project in an existing subdivision. We had to balance the stoop height requirements from the form-based code, meeting code for accessibility, having garages along the back side, maintaining positive drainage, and the roads around the lot were already installed. We ended up with around 25 finish floor elevations across the development in order to meet all the requirements and constraints. It took a lot of working and reworking to find a solution that satisfied both the code requirements and the needs of the developer.

 

Jameelah Ingram, P.E., M.ASCE

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Jameelah Ingram, P.E., M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

ASCE Collaborate is a tool to engage with civil engineers around the world. Contributing to ASCE Collaborate allows me to build relationships and share knowledge with other engineers. I also gain advice, new perspectives, and an opportunity to enhance my writing skills.

As we serve the public through civil engineering, the works we create serve us in return. Therefore, contributing to the civil engineering profession is essential, and I enjoy playing my part.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

1) Join a Professional Association - Professional Associations offer ways to: engage in engineering outreach on a large scale and strengthen the pipeline of future engineers; develop connections with professionals locally and globally; and grow leadership skills.

2) Read Engineering Articles - Reading engineering articles is an excellent way to explore interests outside of the projects you are working on. The articles can give you a glimpse into other niches in the engineering industry. Online publications and industry magazines often provide insight for problems you are working to solve as well.

3) Ask Questions - If you reach an impasse in an engineering calculation, try asking questions. Prior to the conversation, be sure to do your research. Come prepared to show the ways in which you have already attempted to arrive at a solution.

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

I was inspired to study structural engineering by the infrastructure and architecture in my hometown of Chicago. I was captivated by soaring skyscrapers and beautiful bridges. My mother, who is a surreal artist, and father, a technical professional and U.S. Navy Veteran, greatly influenced my path. As a civil engineer, I also have the opportunity to help others reach the destinations most important to them.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

As a civil engineer, our projects are tangible. Our designs solve critical problems and create conveniences to improve quality of life. I enjoy the feeling of happiness that comes with seeing a project I have contributed to being constructed and ultimately used by the public.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

The most challenging project I have ever completed was a new six span pedestrian bridge across a busy interstate with spans up to 173 feet (approx. 53 meters). It was challenging because it was a project full of “firsts” for me. It was the first pedestrian bridge, the first prestressed concrete bridge, and the first bridge on the East Coast of the United States I had ever designed. I had to learn new standards and software programs. I also collaborated with a new group of engineers for the project. The challenges made the completion of the project even more rewarding!

Mandeep Singh Kohli, CP, M.ASCE

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Mandeep Singh Kohli, CP, M.ASCE, Senior Engineer at Samsung Engineering  

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

   Engineering is not a very well defined science, it is part Science and part Art. What we learn in our school is just the basic building blocks, our main skill comes from doing the work and learning from others. One  

   can gain only a limited experience by doing things himself, but by collaborating with others and learning from other's expirience we can tap into their knowledge. This belief has always been my motivation in sharing knowledge    

   and it is this same reason why think it is important to contribute, for my own self development and the development of the entire community. 

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

   My advice would be to be patient and walk through your career’s initial days slowly so that you can grasp the fundamentals completely. The amount of efforts that you put in the initial years will pay dividend throughout your career. 

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

   I was always fascinated by mathematics and Science, so it was logical for me to choose engineering. Since i was open to any Hardcore engineering discipline, it had to be either Mechanical, Civil or Aeronautical and when it 

   came to choose i chose Civil Engineering.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

   Being able to see your work play out on the actual field is the best part of being a civil engineer. 

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

  The most challenging Project was my last project, which was the Engineering and Design for a grassroots Propane Dehydrogenation Plant in Alberta. I was the Area Lead and responsible for the design and checking for all of the 

  major and critical Structures in Our scope, out of those item was the reactor structure, which consisted of 4 more than 60 mt tall structures having Heavy Reactors at top and 3 similarly tall interconnected stair towers.

  That structure and its Foundation was in a way the culmination of my 10 years of engineering knowledge. It had several challenges, not the least of which was maintaining the drift at top to less than 2”. Having done that and   

  seeing how it stands today is one of my proudest achievements. 

Tsee Lee, A.M.ASCE


Tsee Lee, A.M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

Students don't learn how to act in an office or in the field in the classroom. Young professionals may lack resources to answer questions they come across at work. Minorities may wish to discuss certain situations that otherwise go unaddressed.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

Establish a good studying habit. Read widely; it'll make you a better writer. Think more; don't copy without understanding.

Why did you become a civil engineer?

I want to try to leave the world a better place than I found it. CE is one of those endeavors where I can help make it happen.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

I like doing things that matter. People don't think about water mains or storm sewers, or a smooth road, but they know when something goes wrong.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

I have been a College Aide at the NYC Department of Design and Construction for the last four years, and my in-house Design unit has just completed work on a $28 million water and sewer project in Southeast Queens. Residents there will see the improvement in a few years, and I have been fortunate to work under bosses who have given me experience in almost every aspect of the project.

Andre Newinski, S.E., A.M.ASCE


Andre Newinski, S.E., A.M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole? 

I always believe that Engineering is a creative profession, We aim for positive change. Our designs impact communities and inspire innovations while playing a significant role as buildings perform better. In future times, Will the next generations enjoy a better world? ASCE Collaborate provide us knowledge & motivation and perhaps bond Engineers on finding the solutions for designated purposes. Aesthetics and Social causes need to come first: “Quality of Life” – because if not, Human life can be in danger. Its Philosophy can enlighten Actions and Thoughts, as Justice enables Advocating for maintenance that our profession requires. All contribution here is extremely important, therefore communication styles can evolve to a next stage. ASCE has a Vital role by triggering a powerful effect in a Rapid Changing World, propelling us forward. Together, We are an excellent Team… so we can Advance with ASCE 😊.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

“There is nothing more practical than a transparent Theory - Jörg Schlaich” .

Knowing the existence of different Approaches is the best way to see how Structures works (e.g., truss analogy theory), a core example when advancing “performance-based design”. Structural Art has gifted us with the works of Jörg Schlaich and his Team”, and yet as seen in the Bridges of Swiss Hero Robert Maillart… so many ultimate visual experiences! I Encourage you to take a look into the ASCE “Civil Engineering Body of Knowledge for the 21st Century” - meet the expectations of responsible charge. Changes are in the way and we (Civil Engineers) are strongly happening to the World! (A New Industry). Be proactive, Be Aware, Be Yourself and Stay Together. Align with initiatives like: ASCE Future World Vision and SEI Vision for 2033 (Structural), Net Zero E-Carbon Structures (www.se2050.org). Participate / Engage in Conventions, Congresses, Conversations, Events, Sessions, Activities, and try to Investigate what is going on in the Committees, on the Technical Advancement (CTA), .e.g. and the Global Activities Division (GAD). They should soon achieve their goals as our path continues to unfold: “we need an energy revolution, a prosperity for all . . .”  And you can be a Valuable Engineer for the Future.

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

When I was a teenager, I started creating Advanced 3D Worlds (Maps) by using Hammer - A Level Designer tool provided by Valve Developer Community for Half-Life PC Platform. I end up recreating almost the entire University Campus of our Civil Engineering School: URI 3D Complex 2008-2010 (a parallel research activity started in cooperation efforts with Prof. Dr. Márcio Antônio Vendrusculo). At that time, he was my Soil Mechanics professor and the Head & Director of the Department of Civil Engineering and Computer Sciences from Universidade Regional Integrada do Alto Uruguai e das Missoes (URI University).

To Answer Why: One Experienced Structural Engineer suddenly appears in my High School Classroom, and he introduced insights about what a Civil Engineer could do (Create): bridges, roads, constructions, buildings and others structures. I was instantly interested! I got to know Professor Denizard Batista de Freitas “CES Ouvrages d'Art” (ÉCOLE NATIONALE DES PONTS ET CHAUSSÉES, ENPC, France) years later, on my path also attending his structures disciplines. He was my mentor and an old friend whose thoughts have been evoked a profound gratitude that answers Why I became a Civil Engineer.
He gives me the task to find the “State-of-Art in Prestressed Concrete Beam Sizing” in order to defend my final dissertation.  I was going for the best U.S. structural platforms! but he was still disappointed because I didn’t align with the French Engineering Knowledge he would like. At that window of time, bridge technologies from TDV GmbH (Austria) already have been acquired by Bentley Systems, Inc. … I had to do all the work alone for a long time as we progressively reestablish our friendship.

Accessing Bentley RM Bridge V8i was another complex challenge. Someone gives me the chance to join the most Advanced Structural firm of my state, providing me AASHTO codes – Section V (an almost nonexistent material here in Brazil, since ABNT supremacy codes couldn’t design prestressed members up to fc=15ksi). I move to the capital to work with 2 newly installed mentors: MSc. Marcos Hamann Beier @ UFRGS & His father Martin Alfredo Beier: Delegate of the Brazilian Association of Structural Engineering and Consulting (ABECE) – “The Owner’s of Deltacon Engenharia S/S Ltda in Porto Alegre, RS – Brazil”. They were really supportive, I stay there working for additional 120 days when Marcos reveals the internship opportunity, I was really thankful  to them!  I was happy to shared a lot of new experiences and to find some friends over there (in office), and in the city, same time.

I accept DZ’s initial request because I always knew, that someday in the future I would approximate my Simulated Designs into Real World Experiences (Structures and the Foundation of Everything). Since them, I have dedicated my time to study more structures. I receive my first BSc degree in Civil Engineering in 2011, an additional BA in Physics 2017, and the recent groundbreaking Astrophysics X-Series Program from ANU (2019). With this, I could know now what others major Structures coexists in our Universe, being insightful about other Worlds & Universes, Stellar Formations - so life can exist, so multiple possibilities. I think this answer is well covered, as the Journey remains!.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?
Engineering has endless potential in the fields of IDEAS, use your Imagination! We can provide alternative resolutions to an array of complex systems, analysis can be conducted to multiple perspectives if you want / when it is required (possibilities). In this way, Engineering permits express Art, and Adapt something into new reality, “every person can achieve really good purposes with this life-long learning dedicated process!” Its really a great profession!  I enjoy the most when Engineers are able to develop conceptions, connections and freely express Intuition, Feeling, Thinking and share their Experiences with people, while using some energizing structural technology at times. I am very proud and profound about the Engineering uniqueness that impacts our society (distinctively). Working with Engineers and Architects for at least 10 years makes me capable of provide impressive structural designs for society and gain some field experience at times.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?
Over 100 structural designs, it has occurred the most challenge design: NPROJ001 by default is our First Futuristic Impulse Building 2020-2021. The Extreme Performance Buildings Initiative @edextremo exists in a Team: Andre Newinski, José Carlos Lunardi and José Diniz Lunardi… (this initiative is being now powered by my family support: Davi Newinski & Carmen Maria Zuculoto Newinski).  We are leading the searching to increase resilience and further sustainability for newly installed residential buildings at the city we live - Santo Ângelo. It was necessary to Revolutionize the entire Building System: Design, Analysis, Construction and Experimental Validation in a Holistic way, so the Team could start to thinking in performance objectives (A New Thermal Enclosure & Art). At the same time, I am always attending ASCE-SEI continuing education, and the special events of SEI President Glenn Bell. I attended to ASCE 2021 Convention & SEI Structures Virtual 2021, also powered by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Structural Engineering Institute (SEI of ASCE), I also had recently joined SGH to learning purposes.

Since 2012 I have done some experimental research works that enables Evolution in Structural Concrete Frames based on ACI competitions at times: STATE-OF-ART of Advanced Conceptions for Complex Experimental Structures Towards Aesthetics Performances (Highly Efficient Geometries) subjected to Impact Eccentric loads With / Without Shear reinforcement (Joanna Dark IV / XR-20 was my final creation in the structural research field). Doing this, it helps you to gain confidence, and to create a database to use while Designing Structures. One of my beautiful structures awaiting completion is the covered street at nearby city of Entre-Ijuis. done in Alliance with the partnership of Fortes Engenharia & Arquitetura (Professor Arq. João Fortes and his Civil Engineer son), that we hope to be ready soon, next year (2022).

 

Charles Ou-Yang, S.M.ASCE



Charles Ou-Yang, S.M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

As Elon Musk and Steve Jobs shared in their biographies. They are able to accomplish so much because of the A-team that they hire. I believe there is synergy in working together, and that kind of mission driven, pure intention, safe environment is a community that needs to be fostered. I think ASCE is a home based for all civil engineers. Sometimes we have great companies, sometimes bad, but ASCE allows us to see a different perspective. I also love that this ASCE Collaborate is shared across the globe. 

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

It’s not an advice for civil engineer, but it is my motto. Never settle. If life isn’t what you want, then do something to make it so! There are so many great resources out there, and so little cost to trying. 

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

Having worked in architecture for 6 years. I felt that the profession was missing the engineering mindset. I’d like to compliment my skillset, as a pivot to post-Covid career change.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

I love that there is a formula to every question! There is a straight forward answer, unlike most parts of life. I also love that engineers know how to collaborate together, and understand team work. 

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

The most recent challenge (as challenges grow as we level-up!) was my development project. I was forced into being the General Contractor for my investment. It was a lot of scare and delays, but once the wall came down, and there was no turning back, it was an amazing flow. I am proud of overcoming the fear and surprised that we added value (55% to purchase)!



Mitchell Winkler, P.E., R.ENG, M.ASCE

Winkler.jpg
Mitchell Winkler, P.E., R.ENG, M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?  

The opportunity is twofold: 1) to help others develop their professional skills by sharing experience and to 2) create insight into challenging problems that can help others achieve their goals.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

With the caveat that I’ve spent large part of my career outside of mainstream civil engineering, my advice to those early in their careers is to develop a deep technical competency before broadening.

Why did you become a civil engineer?  

I was attracted to civil engineering by the types of problems that civil engineers solve.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

Being able to look at building or piece of infrastructure and having insight into how it was designed and constructed.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed? 

Leading a multicompany team to achieve a common objective.  

Llala Chrishaye S. Ocampo, S.M.ASCE



Llala Chrishaye S. Ocampo, S.M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

The importance of joining ASCE collaborate during the times of membership is that what you can offer that makes worth while to help each other and create milestones to help yourself grow professionally. And to collaborate with your organization is having a meaningful communication with other professionals. Students nowadays are given the opportunity and as they join ASCE organisation they must experience ASCE Collaborate and make a meaningful membership. 

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

I advise them to study well and harder, to save for good investment in the future career, allow failures and never give up. Invite them to join an organisation like ASCE which is a good step for an engineering career that would help them while creating a good network of people there and growing together with the others, exploring great opportunities like having a mentor-mentee relationship, free webinars, get involved in the thread of discussions, get aware of Engineering magazines. I would like to advise that it's great to collaborate too. 

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

A civil engineer always seeks the problem and provides solutions, they care about people in the surroundings, its sustainability, in a creative manner. That's why I love to pursue Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering even if its hard. And then get help with this profession by joining ASCE organisation, get involved in the collaborative, webinars, events, and mentor-mentee relationships. Afterwards I must pursue licensure, and consider continuing education or other related training. 

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

I enjoyed Civil Engineering while studying as of now, since it helps me to build a good foundation of learning, to be a professional, a lifestyle of what I desired. While in the future I surely enjoyed collaborating with the team and be a problem solver, build, design, and innovate. I enjoyed the opportunities waiting since it's varied in every field, and in every field is a good experiences and learnings. 

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

I was able to understand programming language and write a code like using Eclipse, C++, Turbo C, Java, and Visual Basic for the thesis purposes in my class. The challenges are delegates the work, to be a leader, and trust the team. These programming languages helps when innovating technology in the infrastructure and also a good example I could give that a Civil Engineering is everything. But when it comes to biggest project in the industry, I never encountered one since I'm still studying although as of now I tried to enter a freelance contractor, then it's difficult for me to find a trustworthy skilled construction workers team and a client. 

 

Christopher Seigel, P.E., M.ASCE



Christopher Seigel, P.E., M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

Society faces a myriad of interconnected global challenges every day. No matter where you go on this planet, you can find Civil Engineers working to address these issues. It is my hope that through greater communication, we can learn from each other in order to better solve challenges and work to improve the quality of life for us all.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?
Be open to as many opportunities as you can. You never know what experiences you will take away from them or what you will learn. Find a field or a job that truly matters to you. It will help make the tough days more bearable and give meaning to your work. Be kind to your co-workers and remember that everyone is human. Learn to “manage-up” and offer solutions once you begin to understand the lay of the land where you are working.

Why did you become a civil engineer?
Contrary to most other engineers I’ve spoken with, I was never a naturally gifted science or math student. However, I have always enjoyed working with others, and participating in things that can make a positive impact in some manner. As I was finding my way through my undergraduate degree and wondering where this path was leading, I was introduced to some of the environmental issues that society has faced and continues to face today. These topics further drew my interest and led me in the direction of the water resources field in which I currently work.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

I enjoy contributing to work that is meant to improve the lives of people and to make us more responsible stewards of this planet that we all call home. 

John Schwartz, S.M.ASCE



John Schwartz, S.M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

Civil engineers offer a unique perspectives and talents to our modern society. First, civil engineers possess skills that pass the test of time, which allow them to create lasting change in our society. The opportunities/possibilities are endless for civil engineers since the profession is applicable to almost every facet of modern society. Civil engineering acts as the foundation for the rest of society to build on top of. If a foundation is crumbling, then the building cannot stand. Therefore, our world needs experts collaborating to develop the lasting solutions for an aging infrastructure. ASCE Collaborate is so important because it is a catalyst for innovative sustainable development solutions and ideas.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

A piece of advice for anyone starting their career in civil engineering is to design their own plan for what their goals are for their journey as a civil engineer. Please feel free to reach out for an example plan!

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

I chose to become a civil engineer to make a tangible change in our world. I feel that there are numerous ways to contribute to society, but one of the most rewarding ways is to see real life structures brought to fruition.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

I enjoy the high level of technical problem solving involved in the coursework and journey as a civil engineer.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

The most challenging project I have participated in was a deck I recently tore apart and rebuilt. I do not have any high-level civil engineer experience so far, but these small projects early in my career present challenges like what I will face in years to come. The deck was built poorly by the previous owners, so there was lots of modifications and adaptations needed to build a beautiful, and safe deck from the structure in place.

James Williams, P.E., M.ASCE


James Williams, P.E., M.ASCE

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?

I believe the importance of contributing to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole lies in the experiences, perspectives and expertise of the individuals and their ability to effectively share. Civil engineering is a large field. It is challenging to find a single individual (or a small group) whose experience and expertise encompasses the specifics of any single specialty, industry, or responsibility.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?

My advice for someone early on in their civil engineering career is to have a plan for their professional development. If interested in self-employment or expanding the breadth of future employment opportunities, this professional development plan should emphasize obtaining professional licensing. Of course, the civil engineering career preparation begins in college. Preparing for the FE (Fundamental Exam) and passing the FE while an undergraduate is a study in optimization. Even if undecided, grease the professional engineering skid early. Waiting until one has added a job, family, and other responsibilities can create challenges to time and focus.

Why did you become a civil engineer? 

Prior to times I can remember, my parents have said that I loved taking things apart and putting them back together. I loved art, math, science, and later drafting. My initial thoughts in high school were architecture. I surmised as somewhat of a perfectionist, that my desire to throw away my drawings when the lines were too thick, or my corners were not square would not work professionally. The ability to visualize what was happening physically with structures made civil engineering the choice for me.

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?

What I enjoy most about being a civil engineer is the ability to assist, help or support people; often introducing them to the profession in a bit more detail.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?

The most challenging project I ever completed was associated with the 1st installation of the SMART (Shipboard Modular and Reconfiguration Technology) Track Foundation System on an Aircraft Carrier during an overhaul. There was a different installation on a smaller Navy vessel using different materials. Ours were the only “true” deck installations that also included bulkhead installations. Typically, these types of projects took linear steps toward research, design, analyses, shock testing, government approval, manufacturing, construction, and installation. Our schedule was limited along with the available product data. I was the structural engineer from the department task with leading the effort. I was performing research, design, analyses while supporting the general design, construction meetings, welding mock-ups, component research, and NAVSEA oversight at the same time. Given the system was relatively new, constantly providing justification and approach to design and analyses methods. It was great to see and support both the deck and bulkhead installations prior to my departure from the company (I returned years later).

Peer-to-Peer Standards Exchange Moderators

John P. Campbell, PE, SR/WA, M.ASCE



John P. Campbell, PE, SR/WA, M.ASCE, Texas Branch Manager, T2 UES, Inc. 

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole?
For better or for worse, there is no amount of formal education that can equal the impact of the lessons learned from experience. I believe that it is important to honor, preserve and respect the past and to share the value of our collective history to inform the decisions of future Civil Engineering leaders.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?
There is a wide range of exciting challenges for a Civil Engineer, be open to the prospect of the unexpected and flexible enough to answer the call when opportunity knocks.

Why did you become a civil engineer?
I am a 3rd generation Civil Engineer so the most important factor was familiarity with the profession and the work performed by Civil Engineers. I’ve always enjoyed building and as long as I can recall, I wanted to work in the development and construction of
large scale infrastructure projects. What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer? The ability to serve in a meaningful way and to contribute to the betterment of society, civilization and the world that we leave for the next generation.

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed?
My most challenging project was also the most rewarding project with regard to changing the trajectory of my professional career. I was working as the Utility Manager for the Right of Way Section of the TxDOT Dallas District, when I was assigned to lead the
utility coordination effort for the reconstruction of a 9 mile segment of US 75, from downtown Dallas to the interchange with IH 635. I facilitated a public private partnership with the City of Dallas, a private Engineering design consultant and the TxDOT project office to coordinate the clearance and accommodation of existing utility infrastructure.

Ronald Hamburger, P.E., F.SEI



Ronald Hamburger, P.E., F.SEI

​More than 40 years of experience in structural design, repair/rehab, investigation and research.  Senior Principal Simpson Gumpetz & Heger Inc, in San Francisco.

- Chair ASCE 7 Standards Committee (2011-present)
- Member AISC Committee on Specifications, Connection Prequalification Review Panel
- Member SEI Board of Governors
-Past President, NCSEA, SEAOC, SEAONC, SECB
- Walter P. Moore Award, James Delahay Award, Norman Medal, Higgins Award

Sean Homem, S.E., M.ASCE



Sean Homem, S.E., M.ASCE. Senior Project Manager with Simpson Gumpertz and Heger

Sean Homem is a Senior Project Manager with Simpson Gumpertz and Heger, where he has fifteen years of experience as a structural and civil engineer. He has experience in projects involving design, investigation, repair, and rehabilitation of buildings and structures of various types and materials.

He has gained substantial experience in construction administration and investigating the effects of rain and ponding of roof structures. As a member of the ASCE 7 Snow and Rain Loads Committee, he has significant experience with the roof drainage design and investigation.

Sean has a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Merrimack College and a Masters of Engineering in Structural Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He currently serves as the Balloteer and Historian for the Snow and Rain Load Subcommittee of ASCE 7.

Huajie (Leo) Liu , Ph.D., P.E., S.E., LEED AP



Huajie (Leo) Liu , Ph.D., P.E., S.E., LEED AP

Why do you think it is important to contribute to ASCE Collaborate and the civil engineering profession as a whole? 
I consider myself very lucky. Over the years, I received tremendous amount of support/help/guidance/mentoring from colleges/peers and many professional engineers I have never met in person. I am grateful and truly believe that it’s my obligation to give back to back to our engineering society.  Contributing to ASCE Collaborate is a great way to give back to our engineering profession.

What advice do you often share with someone early on in their civil engineering career?
Do not hesitate to ask questions. There are no dump questions at all.   You will be surprised to know how many people are willing to help.

Why did you become a civil engineer?  
When I was a kid, I was inspired by many landmark buildings/structures designed by civil engineers and wished one day I would leave a mark on the earth!

What do you enjoy most about being a civil engineer?
Learn while solving challenging problems and get paid!

What is the most challenging project you have ever completed? 
Well, this is a tough questions. I have worked on so many projects that seemed to be overwhelmingly challenging at the beginning till practical solutions were developed. Working on challenging projects is like claiming mountains. It looks extremely challenging when you look up from bottom of the mountain but once you reach the top. You appreciate the view and everything learned along the way up.

*** Interested in being an ASCE Collaborate Topic Moderator? Contact Tirza Austin at [email protected].