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