Nov
02
2011
When the going gets tough, the tough… compute, avoid, accommodate, compromise, and, finally, collaborate. That’s the positive progression in moving from a confrontational situation to a solution. Learning how to communicate effectively in such situations is a key component in leadership development. During the Friday afternoon session of the ASCE 2011 conference, Kyle Twitchell presented…
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Jul
14
2011
Paul Levy, former director of the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority (MWRA), contributed an excellent article in Commonwealth Magazine (Summer 2011). The article: “Down the Drain: Infrastructure Needs a Cheering Section”, discusses issues related to infrastructure maintenance (and lack of maintenance). This is a timely, well-written article that frames the difficult debate on how it’s always…
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Jun
28
2011
In a forum article, “Master Builder: Historical Icon”, in April 2011 LME, Eric Flavell discusses the historic development of the role of “master builder”. In the past, a “master builder” was an individual largely responsible for design/construction of a project. In his article, Mr. Flavell wonders if reintroduction of the idea of master builder today…
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Mar
04
2011
This is a summary of an article on reforming engineering education that is scheduled to be published in the “Leadership and Management in Engineering” journal, July 2011 issue. It is posted on behalf of its author, Merlin D. Kirchenman, P.E., CPC, M.ASCE, M.AIC. The topic of reforming engineering education has been studied and debated…
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Mar
01
2011
Construction is proceeding on the new Lake Champlain Bridge. Here is a photo of construction of approach piers, and placement of some early steel girders. You can also follow along at a group Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Lake-Champlain-Bridge-Coalition/207130615774 This page is interesting in that it has been a focus point for the surrounding communities in their dealing…
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Jan
21
2011
Some thoughts about design codes on steroids.
Nov
24
2010
Discussion in ENR on engineering responsibility related to the Gulf oil rig disaster.
Nov
03
2010
A short letter to LME about the condition of our infrastructure and thoughts why.
Oct
30
2010
One of the great advantages of attending the ASCE Annual Conference is learning about the benefits that ASCE offers. Sometimes this information can just come from the people you sit next to at lunch, and sometimes, entire sessions are devoted to such opportunities. On Friday, I sat in on a presentation about mentoring and learned…
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Sep
21
2010
In case you didn’t see it in one of our recent newsletters, here is the notice that appeared about ASCE’s Leader Education and Development Program: “Rising engineering leaders and managers come away with newfound leadership skills and confidence as a result of ASCE’s Leader Education and Development Program. LEAD, an eight-month course of seven formal…
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