TEPM 33: The Role of Engineering Repair and Rehabilitation in Sustainable Development

In this episode, I talk with Keith E. Kesner, Ph.D., P.E., S.E. (IL, HI), project director at Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, about the intersection of project management and the field of existing structures, including the challenges, trends, and future directions of engineering repair and rehabilitation practice in the next five to 10 years. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Keith: How did you accumulate 30 years of experience working with existing structures? How important do you think internships are for shaping a career, and what advice would you give students looking to make the most of internship opportunities in today's competitive job market? What are the typical reasons, from a project management standpoint, for initiating repairs and rehabilitation in existing structures? Can you discuss the changes you've observed in your career regarding existing structures? What do you think about artificial intelligence entering civil engineering, particularly with new surveying and damage assessment methods like using AI in roadway surveys? Given the upcoming release of new documents from the American Concrete Institute (ACI), how do you anticipate these changes will impact the management of projects in your field? Looking ahead five to 10 years, can you share more insights on where you see the repair and rehabilitation practice in your industry going? What gets you excited about structural engineering? What about dealing with asset management planning, project management, and cost management in revolutionizing a whole city's infrastructure intrigues you the most? What advice would you offer to engineers engaged in repair and rehabilitation projects, whether they're just starting their careers or have a decade of experience, on how to begin, sustain, and advance in this field? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About the Role of Engineering Repair and Rehabilitation in Sustainable Development: Keith Kessner's 30-year engineering career started unexpectedly during his undergraduate years when a jobless break led him to a specialized engineering firm. Diverse projects kept his work engaging, leading to valuable connections and a graduate program at Cornell. In engineering education, you're not just learning science — you're developing problem-solving skills for diverse fields like Fortune 500 firms, engineering companies, real estate, project, construction management, and even finance, providing versatile career paths beyond traditional roles. Fixing issues in existing structures, when viewed from a program management perspective, is mainly about preventing disruptions and maintaining smooth operations. Addressing problems promptly, like leaks in a parking garage, not only ensures safety but also avoids negative impressions and potential shutdowns. Growing trends, like ordinance-driven inspections in places like New York City, highlight the increasing importance of program management in driving these projects. The big change in dealing with existing structures is realizing they're unique, especially as building codes evolve. Now there's a focus on specific requirements for repairs and maintenance tailored to aging and historic structures. Organizations like the American Concrete Institute have adapted by developing specific codes for existing structures. The integration of advanced technologies like big data and artificial intelligence is reshaping civil engineering, offering precise and proactive approaches to asset management. Using tools such as LiDAR surveys, drones, and corrosion sensors, engineers can efficiently survey structures, identify areas of concern, and predict potential issues.