American Society of Civil Engineers

As the world becomes more interconnected and the integration of smart technologies into infrastructure systems increases, so does this risk of cyber threats to those critical structures. Cybersecurity is no longer just a digital threat. It is already physically impacting communities around the world.

Keeping roads safe during winter weather is an ongoing challenge. Road agencies have long relied on salt-based deicers such as sodium chloride and calcium chloride because they are affordable and effective at melting ice. This same material that helps keep traffic moving contributes to bridge corrosion, pavement damage, and environmental concerns over time.

Neighborhoods with tree canopy coverage, such as the Birmingham, Alabama, area pictured at left, offer residents protection from heat and air pollution, as compared with densely developed urban areas, such as parts of New York City. New research suggests cities could help combat the dangerous urban heat island effect with something we all encounter every day: trees.

Historical extreme events can provide valuable insight into coastal hazards; however, they cannot fully represent the range of potential future storm conditions.

Young professionals may not have a direct connection to 9/11, but 25 years later, the event remains influential in civil engineering. Today’s young professionals may have no memory of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. But that doesn’t mean they lack connections to the tragedy. Bennard Amponsah, M.ASCE, a structural engineer at Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, was born that day. It’s a bittersweet feeling for Amponsah.

Engineers assessed hazards, supported recovery efforts, and investigated the World Trade Center collapse after the 9/11 attacks. Their work in New York City and at the Pentagon helped shape changes to building codes, standards, and safety practices Twenty-five years ago, the world watched in horror as two hijacked commercial aircraft, loaded with more than 15,000 gallons of jet fuel, intentionally crashed into the North and South towers of New York City’s World Trade Center complex at high speed.

Somehow, in some quarters, there remains an ill-reasoned notion that civil engineering is a task-based undertaking. Actual civil engineers doing the actual civil engineering – certainly the most forward-thinking civil engineers – know that theirs is a profession rooted in big-picture thinking. Civil engineers inherently consider their plans, design, and projects within the context of community and impact on society.

David Macaulay has built a career on giving people unique perspectives on structures and other infrastructure through his inimitable illustration style. Author and illustrator of dozens of books, including the award-winning Cathedral, Underground, and The Way Things Work, Macaulay has a brilliant understanding of the intersection between art and engineering.

Steel pipe piles play a critical role in supporting many major infrastructure projects, from offshore wind turbines to waterfront structures and marine facilities. One reason engineers favor these piles is that they use less material than closed-ended piles while still providing strong load-carrying capacity.

ASCE2027 · The Infrastructure and Engineering Experience Five days of technical sessions, short courses, and behind-the-scenes tours across Philadelphia's landmark infrastructure — from the I-95 rebuild to PHL Airport. Register now You'll sign in with your ASCE account, then complete registration on our secure registration platform. Create an account Registration requires a free ASCE account. Membership is not required. Create your account in minutes to register.