Leading breakthroughs in geotechnical design, guiding billion‑dollar projects, and mentoring generations of engineers
Inducted 2026
Steven “Steve” Saye graduated with his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1975 and began his career as a staff engineer. While working, he pursued a master’s degree under CCEE Hall of Fame member Richard Handy. After earning his master’s degree in geotechnical and geo-environmental engineering in 1981, Saye continued to build his career, applying his geotechnical expertise to major projects across the country. He also conducted private research on soft ground soil mechanics, focused on improving deep foundation design methodology.
Saye’s interest in complex geotechnical research began at Iowa State University with Dr. Handy, and he has continued that work throughout his career. He has been a leader in advancing cone penetration testing (CPT) data analysis and methods, deep foundation design and soft ground engineering. Over 20 years, he published 20 technical papers, reflecting a career anchored in research and innovation.
Saye’s impact can be seen in the people he mentored and the large-scale infrastructure projects he helped guide. His contributions to bridges, interstates, convention centers and drainage systems total in the many billions of dollars. The $1.3 billion Reconstruction of Interstate 15 project to rebuild the roadway system in Salt Lake City, Utah prior to the Winter Olympics was awarded as an Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement by ASCE. Known as a mentor to young engineers and graduate students, he has recruited many Cyclone Engineers to join him at Kiewit Corp. and on geotechnical project teams.
His dedication to advancing technology, practices and professional development is also evident in his involvement with industry organizations. Saye was one of the founding members of the ASCE Nebraska Section Geo-Omaha conference and has served on its planning committee for more than 40 years. The conference’s one-day short course has brought nationally recognized subject matter experts to educate civil engineers in the Omaha area. Saye is a Life Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and served on the Transportation Research Board AFS30 Committee on Foundations for Structures for the 9-year limit. He is also an active member of the Deep Foundations Institute. His commitment to innovation and knowledge-sharing has left a lasting impact on the engineering community both locally and nationally.