Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering

Iowa State University already has the leading construction engineering program in the county—it’s the largest and one of only seven accredited programs in the nation. Now Associate Professor David White plans to bring even more national prominence to the program by developing a graduate program in geotechnical construction (Geo-ConE)—the first of its kind in the United States.

The proposed Geo-ConE graduate program will emphasize the use of advanced electronics in both fields and will focus on necessary innovations in technology and science—from the micro to global scale. The program also will draw on geotechnology, construction, and other disciplines to develop solutions to enable problem identification and solving, robust and cost-effective designs, efficient and safe construction, assurance of long-term serviceability, protection from natural hazards, and a continuing respect for the environment.

Students and faculty will gain many learning and research opportunities from the program. Students will complete formal coursework in both geotechnical and construction engineering, in addition to classes specific to geo-­construction and interdisciplinary courses in areas ranging from biology, chemistry, and political science to mechanical, aerospace, and electrical engineering. Throughout the program, students also will be able to attend lectures and seminars from industry scholars, participate in research projects, take field trips to construction sites, and interact with industry professionals.

Program coordinators predict that within in the next 10 years research findings could potentially reduce the direct and indirect costs associated with foundation engineering, earthworks, and underground construction. This reduction in costs could annually produce billions of dollars in financial resources to be dedicated for other purposes.

“We’re excited about working with the university and industry partners to develop this program,” says White.