A National Research Agenda to Enhance the Civil Engineering Profession Today and in the Future

by Steven R. Kramer, Civil Engineering Research, Foundation, Washington, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Preparing for Construction in the 21st Century

Abstract:

The civil engineering profession of yesterday and today is highlighted by the design and construction of impressive projects in energy, transportation, buildings, and power systems. Innovative and landmark projects such as the Holland Tunnel, the Hoover Dam, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Sears Tower are representative of some of the achievements of civil engineers. These projects would not be possible or cost-effective without new techniques, processes, and materials that resulted from research in laboratories and institutions. For civil engineers to remain competitive in the coming decades, there will be a growing dependence on high technology, quality and innovative products and services. Therefore, research, development and demonstration projects will play an increasing role in meeting the demands to keep America competitive with other industrialized nations. Progress from research typically occurs slowly rather than dramatically. Innovations typically do not occur overnight, but rather from the continuous investments in ideas and experiments that lead to solution.

Subject Headings: Engineering profession | Engineering education | Project management | Innovation | Construction management | Transportation engineering | Systems engineering | United States

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