Progressive Design Build Readiness Enablers - As Progressive Design-Build (PDB) continues to gain traction as a preferred delivery method for complex infrastructure programs, we are also seeing natural tensions emerge within our delivery teams. At the core of the PDB model is intelligent risk allocation—aligned with the capabilities and business models of designers and contractors—supported by active and engaged governance from owners and operators. However, political and funding realities often extend procurement timelines, and our existing toolkits don't always provide the resources needed to effectively plan for a successful project development phase. In this panel, we look forward to sharing our experiences with PDB—highlighting the outcomes that can be achieved through this model, and just as importantly, the demands it places on owners to achieve those outcomes. The session attendees will learn about the alignment between the successful PDB start and the commercial strategy; why enabling Integrated PDB Teams requires intentional organizational design and collaboration investments; and how to achieve development-phase outcomes that balance transparent controls and prioritized innovation.
Moderator: Mike Burns PE, PgMP, DBIA, Lochner
Speakers: TBD
The Flat Rock Dam Betterment Project: Reconnecting the Manayunk Canal with Younger Members Leading the Way - The recently completed Flat Rock Dam Project in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania reintroduced fresh Schuylkill River flow to the 2 mile long historic Manayunk Canal for the first time in over 80 years. The objectives of the project were to replace the dam's secondary spillway, construct a new canal intake structure and open channel, and to stabilize and preserve the 200 year old historic canal gatehouse and lock structure. Through this presentation the history of the facility, the construction challenges faced on this project, and the roles and responsibilities that young engineers and construction managers took in leading this project will be shared. This presentation will share the experiences of younger members working on this high profile project when given the opportunities to excel at the beginning of a career in the construction industry.
Speakers: Ian McKane, P.E., Resident Engineer, Philadelphia Water Department; Kayla King, E.I.T., Project Engineer, Keller North America
Brushy Creek Regional Utility Authority (BCRUA) Phase 2: Completion of Underground Works- The Brushy Creek Regional Utility Authority (BCRUA) Phase 2 Raw Water Delivery System project will provide reliable water for Round Rock, Leander, and Cedar Park, Texas. Major components include two lake tap shafts, 2-mile intake and transmission tunnel, suction chamber, and a 300-ft deep main shaft. Both tunnels were dead-end tunnels mined with a main beam TBM. The presentation will include construction successes and means and methods including top-down casting of the shaft liner, mining the shorter transmission tunnel first to prove means and methods prior to the longer intake tunnel, logistics of backing the TBM out of both tunnels, and initial rock support modifications.
Speakers: Joerg Moser, Walker Partners; Matt Koziol, Schnabel Engineering
The Case for Digital Delivery for Infrastructure Projects- This session presents real-world lessons learned from digital transformation in civil engineering and infrastructure project delivery. It demonstrates how digital technologies—particularly Digital Twins—have become essential to ensuring the continuity and quality of infrastructure projects. Through specific case studies, the session illustrates how Digital Twins can improve project outcomes, enhance collaboration, and reduce liability risks. It also highlights the importance of data quality and best practices in digital data management and handover among project stakeholders across all phases. Ultimately, the session advocates for the adoption of digital tools to overcome infrastructure deficits and promote resilient, high-quality engineering practices for the future.
Moderator: Tuyen Le, Ph.D., A.M. ASCE, Clemson University
Speakers: Chad Schafer, Bentley Systems; Anand Stephen, Bentley Systems
Sustaining the Workforce Across the Asset Lifecycle: Attracting, Developing, and Retaining Talent in Construction-
The construction industry stands at the intersection of historic infrastructure investment and an evolving workforce crisis. As technology, automation, and sustainability reshape how we design, build, and maintain assets, the ability to attract, develop, and retain skilled professionals across all stages of the asset lifecycle is more critical than ever.
This session brings together leaders from construction, engineering, academia, and workforce development to discuss the long-term sustainability of jobs in our industry. Panelists will explore practical and forward-looking strategies for:
- Expanding the talent pipeline by engaging new and underrepresented populations and showcasing modern career pathways.
- Evolving workforce capabilities to align with emerging technologies, data-driven practices, and collaborative delivery models.
- Creating resilient organizations that balance knowledge transfer, career growth, and workforce well-being.
- Strengthening partnerships between industry, education, and government to align training, policy, and opportunity.
Attendees will leave with actionable ideas to strengthen their own workforce strategies and ensure that the infrastructure we build today is supported by a sustainable, future-ready talent ecosystem tomorrow.
Moderator: TBA
Speakers: TBA
Standing on History: Replacing the Ticonic Bridge- This presentation will cover the means and methods used to replace the Ticonic Bridge over the Kennebec River in Central Maine. The decision to use gantry cranes instead of a traditional trestle on the riverbed secured the project for the contractor, but also created challenges for the temporary design team. Topics covered will include gantry foundations tied to existing structures, design and erection of the gantry support trusses, bridge demolition challenges, and the flood of December 2023.
Moderator: Brenda Nichols, P.E. - Cianbro Construction Structures Group (CSG)
Speakers: Joe Orlando, P.E. – Cianbro CSG, Amanda McDermott, P.E. – Cianbro CSG
New Cable Stayed Bridge Featuring the Longest Precast Segmental Main Span Addresses Modern Maritime Needs - The recently opened New Harbor Bridge in Corpus Christi, Texas is a cable stayed bridge with a main span of 1661 ft, making it the longest precast segmental span ever constructed. The new bridges enhanced connectivity for motorists and pedestrians, including improved navigational clearance for the cargo vessels compared to previous limitations. The dual precast box-girder superstructure, connected by delta frames at each cable anchorage, provided a stiff and heavy superstructure to align and lock for closure at the Temporary Pier, Back Span Pier, Transition Pier and Main Span closures. This presentation will review the options considered, the forces and challenges associated, the temporary works developed and the execution of the closures for this iconic structure.
Moderator: Marc Hartman
Speaker: Allan Brayley
Bridge Deck Overhang Falsework: Overview of Design, Equipment, & Failures - Bridge overhang falsework is a critical temporary works element on most bridge projects which ensures deck pour safety and success. This presentation will provide an overview of the various equipment available, details used, design overview of the systems, and inspection recommendations for different structure types.
Speaker: Martin T. Reed, PE, Steamboat Structures LLC
Construction Management: Skills and Competencies for today - Join us for an interactive session focused on identifying essential skills and competencies for today's construction projects. We will review insights from surveys conducted in 2008 and 2018, engaging participants in polling and discussions about how various factors have influenced changes in the industry. The results will aid the Management Practices in Construction (MPIC) committee in pinpointing critical skills needed for current projects. Attendees will compare past survey findings with current needs, helping to identify new competencies for owner organizations, educational institutions, contractors, and consulting community to enhance their projects.
Facilitator: Debra Brisk, P.E.
Speakers: Jennifer Shane, Ph.D.
Anderson Dam - MTBM Tunnel - The 240-foot-high Leroy Anderson Dam is being replaced due to seismic vulnerabilities, with a new dam that meets current safety standards. This reconstruction includes a diversion and low-level outlet tunnel through the northern abutment, mined through rock. A part of this tunnel was completed using a Microtunnel Boring Machine (MTBM), which bored a 100-inch diameter tunnel lined with Perma-Lok steel pipe. Brierley Associates designed a space frame steel launch frame to withstand the 2000 kip thrust load from the machine. The MTBM drive started in an existing lined horseshoe tunnel, requiring thrust loads to be supported by tension and shear-friction rock bolts, carefully avoiding embedded steel support ribs. The frame was shop-fabricated in sections, transported through the tunnel, and assembled on site. Brierley assisted the contractor with design development and construction activities. The MTBM tunnel was completed in fall 2024.
Moderator: Reuben Zylstra, PE, Foothills Bridge
Speakers: Charles Luxford, PE, SE Brierley Associates; Seth Hoffman, PE, SE Brierley Associates
Prevention Through Design Upside Down: A Practical Introduction - The safety performance of the construction industry is a cause for concern and raises alarm. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has encouraged construction project stakeholders to implement the Prevention through Design (PtD) for the last two decades. However, the implementation of PtD is still limited in the United States. This presentation introduces a strategy to overcome the obstacles that impede the implementation of PtD. We call this method PtD-UP.
Speakers: Ahmed Al-Bayati, PhD, PE, Lawrence Technological University; Chad Taylor Morrison, P.E., F. ASCE
Project Documentation: Requirements (Contract and Legal) and Best Practices - Explore essential procedures for managing project documents, which are crucial for maintaining precise and timely records that facilitate effective dispute resolution. Gain a comprehensive understanding of contract requirements and legal obligations pertaining to these documents. Cultivate the skills necessary to prepare meticulous and prompt project documentation, critically assess contract and legal stipulations, and adeptly utilize these documents as vital tools in resolving disputes.
Speakers: Wendy Thomas Wendrowski, Esq., A.M.ASCE, Seyfarth Shaw LLP; Lance VanDemark, PE, PhD, ASCE, MSCE, Vertex.
Construction Claim Case Studies: When Good Jobs Go Bad - A dream construction project can quickly become a nightmare due to disputes. This presentation will showcase real-world case studies that highlight common construction disputes and their resolutions. Session attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the differences between disputes and claims, as well as learn about various types of delays and methodologies for assessing loss of productivity.
Moderator: Joseph Hellenbrand PE PSP, K2 Construction Consulting
Speaker: Gerald H. Williams, Jr., Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE , Construction Research LLC; Daniel Becker, CCM, PMP, F.ASCE D. Becker Consulting, LLC; Mark Sanders, PE Alpha 3 Consulting LLC
Specifications for the Junior Engineer - This presentation examines the growing gap between the necessary specification knowledge for successful project delivery and the limited exposure offered by current higher education curricula. We will share recent data on specifications-related courses in U.S. universities and propose a teaching approach that aligns early-career learning with ASCE courses and certification programs. Additionally, we will discuss how emerging AI tools are transforming higher education and professional development, providing new opportunities for engineers to gain and maintain specification expertise. The session will feature both a presentation and an interactive component focused on skills and curriculum development.
Moderator: Rusty Sprouse, M. ASCE, PE, CFM, R2Consultants LLC
Speakers: David Siegler, M. ASCE, PE, NJTA; Ross Standifer, M. ASCE, PE, Arcadis-US; Hyun Koo, Ph.D., M. ASCE, Wayne State; Vassiliki Demetracopoulou, Ph.D., Aff. M. ASCE, Rutgers
Light Enough to Float, Heavy Enough to Sink - This presentation showcases how innovative marine construction and temporary works engineering are driving the delivery of two new drydocks at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Using 27 massive precast monoliths transported on custom-designed barges, the project demonstrates creative solutions to complex logistical and structural challenges. Attendees will learn how integrated planning and execution accelerated construction and enabled precise placement of these critical components. If you're curious about large-scale infrastructure, marine transport, or collaborative engineering in action, this session offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Moderator: TBD
Presenters: Dana Pendleton, PE, Kiewit Engineering Group; Riley Ruskamp, PE, Kiewit Engineering Group
Collaborative Engineering of Glen Island’s Temporary Bascule - The restoration of the historic Glen Island Bridge required a full structural overhaul without disrupting marine or vehicular access. To achieve this, a collaborative team of marine, geotechnical, temporary works, and structural engineers designed and installed a five-span, 490-foot temporary bridge with an 80-foot bascule span—the longest single-leaf temporary bascule ever built. This presentation will begin with a high-level overview of the restoration scope, then highlight the innovative engineering solutions and temporary works risk management strategies that ensured safe and successful execution throughout the project.
Moderator: Angie Hunter, PE, M. ASCE, Kiewit Engineering Group
Speakers: Scott Hunter, Kiewit Infrastructure Company; Margaret Tolan, Kiewit Engineering Group
Built to Last: Case Studies in Durable and Sustainable Asphalt Paving - Discover real-world projects showcasing innovative asphalt technologies that boost pavement durability, extend service life, and promote sustainability. The session will showcase industry projects that have improved durability and sustainability, and help identify practical technologies to enhance pavement performance.
Moderator: Haifang Wen, Washington State University
Speakers: TBA
From Lab to the Field: Emerging Tech Transforming Asphalt Paving - Explore how smart compaction, sensors, AI, and digital tools move from lab to field to boost asphalt paving quality, durability, and sustainability.
Learn about new technologies transforming asphalt paving and improving quality and performance.
Moderator: Shihui Shen, Penn State
Speakers: Jenny Liu, Missouri S&T; TBA
Exoskeletons for Occupational Safety and Health Management - This presentation provides a comprehensive discussion on the application of an emerging ergonomic solution, exoskeletons, for occupational safety and health management in the construction industry. It will highlight key features, performance capabilities, and common applications of exoskeletons, as well as examine the benefits and challenges of exoskeleton use, identify factors influencing successful implementation, and address safety concerns and strategies to mitigate associated risks. Real-world case studies from construction and related sectors will be presented to illustrate how exoskeletons are currently being used—and where future opportunities lie—for improving worker well-being and productivity.
Speakers: Chuma Nnaji, PhD, MBA (Associate Professor, Texas A&M University; Sarah Ballini-Ross, ASP, CEAS
Mock Arbitration - Join us for an engaging session featuring two skilled attorneys and two experienced claims consultants, all guided by an informative moderator. This interactive experience will actively involve the audience, encouraging their participation in the decision-making process. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the intricacies of the arbitration process, exploring key elements such as expert testimonies and the critical nuances of cross-examination in construction arbitration. This is an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of the arbitration landscape while witnessing the dynamics of a mock trial firsthand.
Moderator: Tom Mitchell, Urban Engineers
Speakers: TBA
AI and Construction Disputes, best practices and updates since 2025 CI Summit - Join us for an engaging session that delves into the transformative advancements of artificial intelligence in the realm of construction disputes. Building on insights shared at the 2025 CI Summit in Costa Mesa, CA, this presentation will illuminate the latest developments and practical applications of AI technologies specifically tailored for resolving construction-related conflicts. The distinguished panel of industry experts will explore innovative uses of AI in dispute resolution, shedding light on how these tools can streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and improve outcomes. Additionally, the discussion will tackle critical ethical considerations surrounding the deployment of AI, ensuring that participants leave with a comprehensive understanding of both the opportunities and challenges presented by this rapidly evolving technology.
Moderator: Tom Mitchell, Urban Engineers
Speakers: TBA
Risk Management in Restoration Projects - The session will delve into the area of risk management within repair and restoration projects, enhanced by the inclusion of insightful case studies. The presentation will provide an overview of the various types of building restoration work, highlighting the diversity of approaches and techniques used in the field. It will also explore the risks associated with restoration projects, including potential challenges and obstacles that can arise during the process. The presenter will share the strategies for effectively managing these risks, ensuring that projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard of quality.
Speaker: Mohamed Anber, PMP, PMI-ACP, ACI Associate member, Kabbani Construction Group