/ Category / Column

Final Thoughts: The Reasons for Speed Bumps on the Road and in Life

February 7, 2019 - in Articles, Column

Speed bump—the new term might be speed hump or traffic-calming device. Whatever they’re called, we’ve all come across them. Most of the time, speed bumps have a specific purpose, and they’re usually effective. Speed bumps cause you to slow down and…

Infrastructure Outlook: How Location Intelligence Can Accelerate High-Speed Rail

February 4, 2019 - in Articles, Column

When it comes to updating and innovating our nation’s infrastructure, the challenges involve much more than just construction. Environmental, safety,…

Code Update: New Manual Simplifies Steel Deck on Cold-Formed Steel Framing Design

February 4, 2019 - in Articles, Column

Although cold-formed steel (CFS) trusses and steel deck applications have been available for years, many designers continue to use either plywood deck…

Project Management Insights: Setting Goals that Get Results

January 25, 2019 - in Articles, Column

We are nearing the end of the year, and firms soon will be asking personnel to establish their goals for the new year. Although sometimes tiresome, it is an important exercise—especially for firms that are learning organizations, tie incentive compensation…

From the Editor: Who Will Build the Infrastructure We Need?

January 14, 2019 - in Articles, Column

Back in 2016, both presidential candidates promised a massive spending bill to rebuild America’s aging infrastructure. In February 2018, the White House released what it referred to as a “blueprint” that would invest $250 billion in public funds, with…

Thoughts from Engineers: Initial Reactions from the Water Infrastructure Act of 2018

January 14, 2019 - in Articles, Column

America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 (AWIA 2018) or S. 3021 was signed into law by President Trump on Oct. 23, 2018, and outlines an ambitious course of action with respect to the nation’s navigable waterways and built water infrastructure. (To read…

Executive Corner: Passing the Torch: Succession Planning Fundamentals for A/E Firms

January 7, 2019 - in Articles, Column

With a huge number of baby-boomer leaders preparing to retire, we’re witnessing the next generation of industry CEOs being promoted to lead their firms. Almost every week, we see press releases showcasing new A/E CEOs taking the reins from their predecessors—the…

Final Thoughts: Project Management Often About ‘Common Sense’

December 16, 2018 - in Articles, Column

I begin this column knowing I may offend some people in project management, because my contention is that project management of engineering projects isn’t that complicated. Project management relies on common sense we all use every day in our lives (with…

ReEngineering the Engineer: Patience Is a Virtue

December 10, 2018 - in Articles, Column

My dad passed away about a year and a half ago. Being the oldest of three children, it was my task to help put together the eulogy for the service. I knew I wouldn’t be the one reading it (those types of potentially emotional talks are not in my repertoire),…

Legal Issues: When (and How) Should a Mediator Evaluate a Case?

November 26, 2018 - in Articles, Column

Construction is a rewarding business, but it’s also challenging and risky. Most larger projects involve dozens of companies, complex design and construction issues, compressed schedules, and tight budgets. So despite efforts to avoid them, it’s not surprising…