schedule

Let’s hit the Vegas Strip and see a new structural wonder up close and in real life!

Hear from Severud as they give you the behind the scenes look of the Sphere and explain unique project challenges and solutions. This tour is not offered publicly; it is specially curated and created for the Summit. This presentation and tour will include continuing education credits.

Sphere at the Venetian is an 18,000-seat state-of-the art multimedia venue in Las Vegas containing the world's highest resolution LED screen (engulfing the entire seating bowl) and Audio Beam Forming Technology, both of which deliver a uniquely immersive experience for showgoers. Additionally, the exosphere is fully clad in about 60 miles of LED puck strands, which fully illuminates the 600,000 square-feet exterior envelope and allows for advertising, as well as the enhancement of any outdoor experience. The 515-foot diameter semi-spherical venue structure is entirely enclosed within the exosphere, which itself is the largest spherical structure on Earth, rising some 366-feet from its foundations.

The presentation will focus on the design and construction of the venue’s main superstructure, dome roof, suspended grillage system, and the exosphere, with particular emphasis on how the use of parametric design, structural steel, and cast-in-place concrete enabled the construction of this venue and its unique aspects.

Tickets are limited and will sell out. Summit registration is required to attend.

First presentation and tour begins at 10:00am and concludes by 12:30pm.

Second presentation and tour begins at 11:30am and concludes by 2:00pm.

Thank you to our event sponsors, AISC and W&W|AFCO, and to our Summit anchor sponsor, CSI!

*There is an additional fee.

Tickets are $99 per person (member)/ $199 per person (nonmember).

Learn more here.

The NCSEA Building Assessments Subcommittee invites you to join us for a half-day pre-conference symposium on building assessment, a vital and growing area of practice for structural engineers. This summit will share highlights from the 2024 fall webinar series on building assessment, which covered a range of topics related to the evaluation of existing buildings, such as:

• Investigation methods and tools, including non-destructive testing, surveying, monitoring, and scanning.

• Common failures in different types of structures, including specifically steel, concrete, wood, masonry, parking garages, balconies and decks, and building envelopes.

• Report writing and recommendations, including rating systems, levels of assessments, and legal aspects.

You will also have the opportunity to network with your peers and learn about the latest developments and resources from the NCSEA Building Assessments Subcommittee. In addition, you will participate in a dynamic discussion on next steps when a structural engineer discovers a potentially unsafe condition and whether they should advise the building to be evacuated or otherwise closed.

We believe that structural engineers are the best qualified professionals to perform structural building assessments and to provide solutions for the challenges, and identify learning opportunities that arise from firsthand experience with the nation’s existing building inventory. This summit is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to take the lead on building assessment projects and to advance the structural profession while protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

Speakers: William Bast, Stanley Stoll, and Julie Furr

Check out the full schedule here!

Thank you to our event sponsor, DEWALT, and to our Summit anchor sponsor, CSI!

*There is an additional fee.

Registration fee is $249 (members of NCSEA)/ $449 (nonmember) per person. Summit registration is not required to attend.

5:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m. Future Leaders Reception

Previously known as the Young Member/ SE3 Reception, we cordially invite you to join us for an evening of inspiration, mentorship, and connection at the "Future Leaders Reception." This event is dedicated to celebrating the vision and potential of students, early career engineers, and emerging leaders, who represent the promising future of our industry.

5:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. Delegate & SEA Leadership Reception (Invite Only)

We extend a warm invitation to all delegates, and SEA leaders, to join us for an evening of collaboration, camaraderie, and celebration at the "Delegate and SEA Leadership Reception." This event is a testament to the strength and diversity of our organization, where dedicated volunteer individuals from various regions and SEA's come together to foster connections, share ideas, and ignite a passion for leadership.

Get ready to hit the Vegas Strip with the most skilled and vibrant structural engineers from around the country as we celebrate our profession in style. This gathering will offer fantastic entertainment, great food, refreshing drinks, and ample chances to mingle and connect with like-minded individuals. If you're a structural engineer who enjoys having a good time, this event is not to be missed!

*One ticket is included with your Summit Registration. You may also purchase this event ticket separately for you or a guest.

Learn more here.

More to come soon!

Interested in some casual networking via group runs before the conference offerings begin? Whether you're just looking for a way to get your steps before sitting in conference rooms all day or training for a marathon, pack your shoes and plan on meeting up with the NCSEA Summit Run Club each morning.

Learn more here.

Time: 6:30am
Distance: 3mi+
Pace: TBD based on attendees
Route: loop

Organizer: Angelina Stasulis

The AI revolution is here, poised to upend every industry in its wake. But how will this new technology actually change the structural engineering profession? In the face of algorithms and machine learning, intangibles that are uniquely human — skills like creativity, adaptability and leadership — will be the clear drivers for growth.

With a quick overview of AI, this keynote will discuss historical technology shifts that disrupted traditional business models and how companies thrived during those cycles. After synthesizing hundreds of conversations with AEC executives, Reddy will present a roadmap for the skills required by employees in the future to thrive and how executives can lead their structural engineering firms in creating amazing value.

After an inspirational keynote address, a panel of visionary structural engineers will share insights into the transformative role of AI in structural engineering, exploring emerging trends and potential future impacts.

Learn more here.

The Exhibit Hall offers countless opportunities for you to connect with industry partners, engage with their products and services, and learn about the latest and greatest product innovations and software updates, all in a festive and interactive environment. Wednesday and Thursday lunches and breaks, and a Wednesday evening cocktail reception—all of the action happens in the exhibit hall.

Learn more here.

Break in Exhibit Hall

Next Generation of Tall Timber: a Case Study of Point-Supported CLT Structure at BCIT Student Housing

At 12 stories, the BCIT Tall Timber Student Housing building will house 470 bedroom units and amenity space with a below-grade basement for services and added storage, and is designed for the highest level of the BC Energy Step Code program. Using a point-supported, wide-format Hem-Fir Cross-Laminated Timber panel system, the supporting steel HSS columns are fully encapsulated within the demising walls between units, allowing for units to be unobstructed by beams and columns. Along with the use of a unitized large-format cladding system, the BCIT Tall Timber building is the next generation in tall timber.

Speaker: Jamie Pobre Sullivan

Code Crafters: A Hands-On Workshop for Engineers to Shape the Building Code

Join us at the 2024 NCSEA Summit for an interactive workshop hosted by the Code Advisory Committee (CAC) that builds upon our recent webinar, "Breaking the Code." This workshop is designed for practicing engineers seeking to actively contribute to shaping building codes. Engage in focused discussions and hands-on workshops where you can refine and submit your own code change proposals with the support of NCSEA experts.

Speakers: John Grenier, Emily Dunham, Julie Furr, Lauren Posey, and Emily Guglielmo

Effective DEI Strategies for a Structural Engineering Firm

In this presentation, participants will explore strategies to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within their structural engineering firms. We’ll address challenges, commitments, and practical implementation methods. Topics will include DEI recruiting practices, outreach opportunities, internal policy, and education.

Speakers: Andi Godfroy and Megan Vandervort

LCAs and EPDs and Buy Clean, Oh My! Learn How Ever-Growing Sustainability Policies Can Affect Your Next Project

The NCSEA Sustainable Design Committee presents an update on sustainable policies within the U.S., a closer look at sustainable design policies in action, and a formal policy statement from the NCSEA and SEI Sustainable Design Committees. Discussion topics include the future of the policy landscape, as well as impacts to design teams and structural engineers, which is presented through a project case study.

Speakers: JoAnn Offill and Max Puchtel

The Design of Operable Structures

Learn about the design considerations and challenges in creating large operable structures in various industries. Retractable stadium roofs, fields and walls for sports facilities, enclosures and shades for ground telescopes, rides and show action equipment for entertainment, gantry cranes, and other mechanized structures.

Speaker: Andrew Agosto

Lunch in Exhibit Hall, included in registration

2024 IBC Significant Structural Changes

This seminar reviews and analyzes selected significant changes from the 2021 to the 2024 edition of the International Building Code (IBC). The seminar identifies the specific code changes that have occurred along with the reasoning behind the changes. Topics include changes to provisions for roofs (Chapter 15), loads (Chapter 16), special inspections (Chapter 17), soils/foundations (Chapter 18) and materials including concrete, masonry, steel, wood and glass (Chapters 19-24). Updated provisions for temporary structures (Chapter 31) will also be discussed.

Speaker: Buddy Showalter

Truth and Consequences: What happens if you agree to those inadvisable contract provisions?

Your lawyer, broker, risk manager or advisors tell you to avoid or reject certain contract clauses, but you are not in a position to follow that advice. What happens next? It is important to understand the possible consequences in order to make an informed business decision about accepting risk. Join construction lawyers Karen Erger and Eric Singer while they review the clauses you were warned about and illustrate the consequences of their acceptance. Karen and Eric will also discuss strategies for mitigating risks when you have no choice about the contract language.

Speakers: Eric Singer and Karen Erger

Circa Resort and Casino - Creativity in Structural Design

Presentation will go over the Circa resort and casino structural overview of the project. Indepth design challenges with the transfer of tower columns, sports book and unique challenges to the site.

Speaker: Farro Tofighi

The New ACI CODE 323: Low-Carbon Concrete: Overview and Implementation

The American Concrete Institute will publish Code 323 - Low-Carbon Concrete in the summer of 2024. The code was developed by an ANSI-approved consensus process and addresses cast-in-place concrete. This new Code provides provisions for concrete materials selection where reduced global warming potential (GWP) is required. The Code may be adopted as a stand-alone code or can be used in combination with a structure code or low-carbon material code adopted by the authority having jurisdiction. The Code is in a format that allows reference to a set of chapters based on the structure or use type and applies to a broad range of concrete materials. This presentation will provide an overview of the Code requirements, how the Code was developed, information on adoption of the code, and examples of how the code can be used in practice. An example case study of using the code will also be provided.

Speaker: Matt Adams

More Coming Soon!

Break in Exhibit Hall

Wind Loads on Non-Building Structures

The wind provisions in Chapters 29 and 30 of ASCE 7-22 cover numerous non-building structures, and this presentation will overview these current requirements and highlight changes in ASCE 7-22 compared to earlier versions. The non-building structures that will be discussed include freestanding walls and signs, rooftop structures and equipment, silos and tanks, rooftop solar panel systems, parapets, and canopies. The presentation will also provide background on the development of these code provisions and the intent of the code to aid engineers in the implementation of these provisions, particularly for structures that are not directly addressed.

Speakers: Jordan Jarrett and John O’Brien

324 N. Main Street, Davenport, Iowa - Partial Building Collapse Investigation

The presentation will cover the author's investigation of the cause and origin of the partial building collapse that made national headlines when it occurred on May 28, 2023. The report prepared on behalf of the City of Davenport, and which has been published by the City, will serve as the basis for the presentation.

Speakers: William Bast, Scott Nacheman, and Rupert Price

Structural Licensure Trends and Updates

Structural engineering licensure remains essential for safeguarding the public. The licensing of structural engineers is dynamic and requires diligence to make sure the licensure process maintains a high level of competence while not becoming overly burdensome. By staying informed and addressing threats we can uphold the integrity of our profession and ensure a safer building environment.

Speakers: Alan Kirkpatrick, Andrea Reynolds and Chun Lau

Strengthening of Existing Concrete Structures: Options, Design, and Installation Case Studies

Restoration and renovation projects often include the need to increase the capacity of existing structural members to accommodate increased design loads or address deficiencies in the original design or construction. This presentation will provide an overview of various options to increase the shear and flexural capacity of existing reinforced concrete members. The presentation will discuss current design procedures, review installation factors that impact the feasibility and selection of the various strengthening options and discuss project case studies utilizing the various options.

Speakers: Brian Greve and Jennifer Dimig

JP Morgan Chase Headquarters - 270 Park Avenue, New York, NY

Taking advantage of changes to zoning laws, the new JP Morgan Chase Headquarters, also known as 270 Park, is the first of several projects aiming to change the skyline north of Grand Central Station.Now under construction, the building will when completed stand 1,388 ft. tall, replacing the now demolished Union Carbide building. Due to the constraints of the train terminal below, the tower itself lands on only fourteen points. The columns ‘fan’ and ‘v’ to forgings that weigh more than 75 tons each, and sit on 16,000 psi concrete walls cast between MNRR tracks and platforms below. These walls continue down another level to the new Long Island Rail Road East Side Access concourse, almost 100 ft. below street level.

Speaker: Edward DePaola

Break in Exhibit Hall with Exhibitor Raffle Prize Drawing

Training Programs to Advance Your Staff's AI and Tech Skills

There are seemingly endless AI tools out there; and if technology is not your full time job, you probably have not had a chance to explore and learn which ones are most relevant and helpful to you. In this session, Kristin Kautz will share some of the tools she’s tested extensively and determined to be the most useful for the different roles in an AEC firm. Whether you are looking to enhance your own workflow, or aiming to better equip your whole team, this session is for you.

Speaker: Kristin Kautz

2024 Existing Building Assessments Webinar Series - That's a Wrap Panel Discussion!

The webinar series from Fall of 2024 was about improving the skills and confidence of structural engineers who assess existing buildings, especially after the Surfside collapse. The webinars covered topics such as the scope of building assessments, common failures in all of the main building materials, and how to write clear and informative reports appropriate for the circumstances. This panel will summarize the main points of the webinars and share best practices including the ethical and professional challenges when performing building assessments.

Speakers: Stanley Stoll and Julie Furr

How to Engage Young Members at a Local and National Level Successfully

Join us for a dynamic panel discussion, 'How to Engage Young Members at a Local and National Level Successfully,' hosted by the Young Members Support Committee. Gain valuable insights and practical recommendations from industry leaders and young member group pioneers on leveraging digital platforms, overcoming challenges, and fostering impactful engagement with young engineers nationwide.

Speakers: Cristopher Montalvo, Jessica Chen, Lauren Posey, Emily Guglielmo and Migara Hewavitharana

SEI Session 1: Learn From the Experts: ASCE/SEI 24 Flood Design and Construction

Catastrophic flooding events, both in riverine and coastal locations, disrupt communities on a regular basis. Come to this session to learn from the experts who developed the provisions in the 2024 edition of ASCE/SEI 24 Flood Design and Construction and learn how the standard has been updated to align with ASCE/SEI 7-22 Supplement 2 as well as many other updates to align with accepted practice and guidelines.

Speaker: TBD

Josiah Quincy Upper School – A High-Rise School in Downtown Boston with Unique Design Challenges

The Josiah Quincy Upper School is a new Boston Public School for grades 6-12 located in the heart of Boston’s Chinatown neighborhood. The very dense urban setting required stacking the school’s programming into a high-rise building with the upper-level classroom floors supported by transfer trusses over the lower-level gym and auditorium. This presentation will cover the many structural design challenges that had to be overcome to build on a tight site with strict programming requirements.

Speaker: Eric Johnson

4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m. Delegate & SEA Leadership Reception (Invite Only)

We extend a warm invitation to all delegates, and SEA leaders, to join us for an evening of collaboration, camaraderie, and celebration at the "Delegate and SEA Leadership Reception." This event is a testament to the strength and diversity of our organization, where dedicated volunteer individuals from various regions and SEA's come together to foster connections, share ideas, and ignite a passion for leadership

4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m. President’s Reception (Invite Only)

Join us for recognition and celebration as we pay tribute to the remarkable individuals who have steered the course of our organization with unwavering commitment and vision. The "President’s Reception" is an exclusive event that brings together the past, present, and future leaders of our organization to reflect on the journey that has brought us to where we are today.

Join us as we celebrate the structural engineering profession and our passion for the industry. This must-attend event will feature cocktails, networking, and entertainment - a great opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make new connections!

Business casual attire is encouraged for attendees.

Cocktails & Exhibits to Support the NCSEA Foundation.

One ticket is included in conference registration fee. You may purchase additional tickets for guests.

Learn more here.

Come for an evening of fun, food and inspiration featuring the Ashraf Allstars live band! Don’t forget your dancing shoes! Dress to impress - sports coat for men, cocktail dress or slacks for women. (Please, no jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or flip flops.) Special prizes including iPads, AirPods, and AirTags! Cash gifts and jewelry, too!

Thank you to our Summit anchor sponsor, CSI!

*There is an additional fee.

Tickets are $50 per person. All proceeds go towards the NCSEA Foundation. Summit registration is not required to attend.

Learn more here.

Interested in some casual networking via group runs before the conference offerings begin? Whether you're just looking for a way to get your steps before sitting in conference rooms all day or training for a marathon, pack your shoes and plan on meeting up with the NCSEA Summit Run Club each morning.

Learn more here.

Time: 6:30am
Distance: 3mi+
Pace: TBD based on attendees
Route: loop

Organizer: Angelina Stasulis

More to come soon!

The Exhibit Hall offers countless opportunities for you to connect with industry partners, engage with their products and services, and learn about the latest and greatest product innovations and software updates, all in a festive and interactive environment. Wednesday and Thursday lunches and breaks, and a Wednesday evening cocktail reception—all of the action happens in the exhibit hall.

Learn more here.

Break in Exhibit Hall

An Overview of Mass Timber Connection Design Basics

This program will introduce common types of connections used in mass timber construction. Structural design provisions, design for fire resistance, and seismic drift performance topics will be included.

Speaker: Lori Koch

The Williams Crossing

This presentation will showcase the new Williams Crossing pedestrian bridge in Tulsa, OK as a project case study and expand on the advanced analysis techniques that were used to optimize the structure. Designed and engineered by schlaich bergermann partner (sbp), the deck stiffened, plate arch structure is the first of its kind in the United States and the bridge is also the first multi-span, plate arch bridge in the country.

Speaker: Stephan Hollinger

Inside the NEW AISC Seismic Provisions and the 4th Edition Seismic Design Manual

The latest editions of the AISC Seismic Provisions and Seismic Design Manual are now available. Learn more about the new seismic provisions for ordinary truss moment frames, coupled composite plate shear walls (SpeedCore), the new appendix on nonlinear response history analysis, and more. Find how new reference tables and examples can further assist in the design of seismic force-resisting systems.

Speaker: Michael Gannon

Sharing the Story of an Actual Claim Against a Structural Engineer

This session is a “Full Disclosure” sharing of an actual claim by the defending engineer and the defense attorney. A full disclosure session is a presentation where the insured engineer, the defense attorney, and sometimes experts share the story of a complex claim. In these sessions, the names of the players, the guilty and innocent, are not redacted from the conversation, although some may be. At the beginning of the session, the audience is asked to agree to the following:

This session is special for the following reason. An engineer/firm is willing to share the details of a real claim. The names of the innocent and guilty will not be redacted. Details of the claim, both technical and legal will be shared. But this sharing comes with a condition. What is said in this room does not leave this room: there are no names, conditions, locations, or any other information that ties what you are about to hear to the actual events that occurred. What can leave the room are the professional practice and claims management lessons learned.

Speaker: John Godwin Tawresey

Creating Mentally Healthy Firms in the Structural Engineering Industry: Good for Employees and Good for Business

As a follow-up to the highly attended 2023 Summit session, It's OK to Struggle, this presentation will provide concrete steps for supporting mental health in the Structural Engineering industry. Engineers worry that attending to their mental health needs could hurt their standing in their company, while managers are balancing caring for their own mental health, providing a supportive work environment for their engineers, and ensuring productivity in a competitive field. The speakers will share best practices and resources for meeting the mental health needs of all employees while maintaining an effective and productive work environment.

Speakers: Debra Alper, Jordan Jarrett, Toni Aswegan and Chad Mitchell

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP)’s Provisions Update Committee’s Key Updates to the 2026 NEHRP Recommended Provisions

As the source material for ASCE and IBC seismic design requirements, the document NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures (NEHRP Recommended Provisions) builds on the latest ASCE 7-22 Seismic Chapters and makes modifications based on recent research and development, lessons learned from seismic events, and practitioner feedback. All updates included in the NEHRP Recommended Provisions will be passed through a consensus committee called the PUC, overseen by the Building Seismic Safety Council (BSSC) at the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) under a FEMA architect-engineer contract. This year, the PUC is balloting proposals from its 13 Issue Teams and a new Sub-Committee called the Functional Recovery Task Committee who will be drafting new provisions for improved community resilience. PUC’s 13 Issue teams are investigating a wide range of issues including soil-structure interaction, interface between structural elements, ground motions and geotechnical concepts, seismic design for very high seismic regions, drift limits, two stage analysis, nonlinear analysis, unification of diaphragm design provisions, rocking system design, buried structure design, strength vs ductility and nurture engineering creativity. In this session, the PUC Chair and Vice Chair will cover Issue Team updates and solicit stakeholder feedback on the proposed model building code modifications.

Speakers: John Hooper, Bob Pekelnicky, Mai Tong, Jiqiu Yuan, and Sara Barrett

Lunch in Exhibit Hall, included in conference registration

Climate Action Summit

This Climate Action Summit presentation explores the intersections of sustainability, resilience, and climate adaption with a goal of empowering structural engineers to play a responsible role in the future of design.

Speakers: Emily Gulgielmo, Kelly Roberts and Amy Macdonald

Understanding and Using the New ACI 562-25 Repair Code - For Structural Engineers

This presentation is intended to educate practicing Structural Engineers on the use of the new ACI 562-25 Repair Code for assessment, evaluation and rehabilitation of existing concrete structures. The ACI 562 Code is now included in the 2024 International Existing Building Code and may be used in jurisdictions that adopt the IEBC. New provisions included in the 2025 Code include assessing fire damaged concrete members, new criteria for assessments, and new provisions for Construction Documents and Quality Assurance.

Speaker: John Lund

Repurposing Existing Office Buildings: Structural Lessons Learned

Repurposing existing and unused office buildings for other uses is a growing trend, but what is really required to transform these structures? This session will dive into the design and construction considerations for adaptive reuse projects, including demolition, lateral system analysis, strengthening, overbuilds, core drills, and more, through the discussion of two success stories: an office to residential conversion completed in 2020, and a current project transforming office space into a veterinary hospital.

Speaker: Jennifer Greenawalt

Wind Requirements for Existing Building Renovations

Existing buildings are frequently renovated, and often require replacement of wind resisting components, or changing the wind loads applied to portions of the structure. This presentation will explore the wind related IEBC provisions that apply to different renovation types. Important considerations and frequently asked questions will be discussed, and examples and case studies demonstrating the use of the IEBC in the context of wind loads will be presented.

Speaker: John O'Brien

More Coming Soon!

The Development of the 2023 50-State National Seismic Hazard Model and the Revision of the Deterministic Ground Motion Caps, Considering Probabilistic Alternatives

As the source material for ASCE and IBC seismic design requirements, the document NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures (NEHRP Recommended Provisions) builds on the latest ASCE 7-22 Seismic Chapters and makes modifications based on recent research and development, lessons learned from seismic events, and practitioner feedback. The Provisions Update Committee will soon be balloting the adoption of the 2023 50-State National Seismic Hazard Model. Sanaz Rezaeian from the U.S. Geological Survey will describe to attendees the changes in the 2023 Model and its implications to the source material for the seismic design parameters. In addition, Nicolas Luco, also at USGS will cover the new proposal to revise the deterministic ground motion caps with probabilistic alternatives that result in specified collapse risk across the U.S., or a potential modification of the current deterministic lower limit (DLL). Extensive stakeholder engagement will allow attendees to ask questions and provide their feedback on the proposed code modifications.

Speakers: Nicolas Luco and Sanaz Rezaeian

Break in Exhibit Hall

SEI Session #2: ASCE/SEI 7-28: Considering Climate-Informed Environmental Hazards Effects on Structural Loads

The environmental loads of wind, snow, ice, rain, and flood in ASCE/SEI 7 have always been based on historical hazard data. However, there is wide-accepted recognition that historical measurements are no longer a good prediction of future expectations. To design the next generation of resilient infrastructure, there is a need to improve the way hazards are evaluated and appropriately consider the impacts of the changing climate in a meaningful way. Join experts from ASCE/SEI 7-28 and SEI leaders to learn about what is being considered for this cycle and beyond, and how the Federal agencies are helping to get there.

Speaker: Jennifer Goupil

It's Better... But We're Not There Yet: Women at Work - How to Empower yourself and other women, and keep female employees around longer.

This session is for everyone - it will support female engineers to identify strategies to improve their work experience, and for the colleagues and managers of women to understand their biases, improve relationships with and retention of these valuable engineers.

Speakers: Claire Gandee and Bobbie Wood

Red-tag a building?! Are you crazy?

The Building Assessment Committee (BAC) aims to support structural engineers engaged in building assessments. Recognizing the complexity of these tasks, the BAC has delivered an educational series, including six 90-minute webinars featuring experts nationwide. The series covered essential topics such as assessment levels, investigation techniques, analysis, and communication strategies. Emphasizing practical application through case studies and ethical considerations, the program seeks to enhance professional competence and ensure the safety and quality of building assessments. This presentation dives into delivering assessment results to clients, through case studies and group discussions on decision-making and client response scenarios when our recommendations are ignored.

Speakers: Stanley Stoll and Julie Furr

The Consideration of Performance on Structural Analysis Procedure with Case Observation

This presentation delves into the critical role of nonlinearity in seismic design. Drawing from real-world observations following a recent earthquake in Türkiye, we explore how nonlinear mechanisms impact structural behavior. We’ll discuss the linear design procedure used in modern building codes and its transformation of complex nonlinear dynamics into an equivalent linear problem. Additionally, we’ll delve into seismic performance factors and compare the benefits and drawbacks of both linear and nonlinear design approaches within the context of performance-based design philosophy.

Speaker: Tunc Deniz Uludag

2024-2025 Compensation & Benefits Study for the SE Profession

The National Council of Structural Engineers Associations is performing the SE Profession's only evaluation of compensation and benefits provided to employees. By securing data from all regions of the U.S., the study produced from this survey and evaluation will provide a thorough understanding of the demographics of the profession as well as the level of compensation by job title and benefits afforded to structural engineers throughout the country. This type of benchmarking data will help the profession understand its current state and opportunities to become greater employers of choice.

Data and information is being gathered from both individual SEs and SE firms to ensure a robust and thorough sample size. The result will be information available by job title, geography, firm size, and firm revenue. This will provide like comparisons for both the individual and the firm.

Speaker: Jordan Jarrett

Community Resilience Is Now at The Center of Modern Model Building Code Development: Functional Recovery Provisions in the 2026 NEHRP Provisions PART 1

In January 2021, NIST and FEMA published FEMA P-2090/NIST SP-1254 Recommended Options for Improving the Built Environment for Post-Earthquake Reoccupancy and Functional Recovery Time, providing recommendations for enabling recovery from extreme seismic events. The first two of the seven recommendations in the report are (1) to develop a framework for post-earthquake reoccupancy and functional recovery objectives, and (2) to design new buildings to meet recovery-based objectives. Currently, the NIBS Building Seismic Safety Council, with support from FEMA, is developing the 2026 NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures (NEHRP Provisions) and defining functional recovery design criteria will be one of the key efforts during this NEHRP Provisions cycle. As the source material for ASCE and IBC seismic design requirements, the document NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures (NEHRP Recommended Provisions) builds on the latest ASCE 7-22 Seismic Chapters and makes modifications based on recent research and development, lessons learned from seismic events, and practitioner feedback. The PUC FRTC has convened five topic subcommittees to define Recovery Key Terms, Categories, Time Targets, Prescriptive Provisions, and Hazard Levels. This session will feature an overview of the key components relating to Recovery Key Terms, Categories, and Time Targets and will be engaging attendees on their feedback of the proposed provision material.

Speakers: Ryan Kersting and Abbie Liel

Break in Exhibit Hall with Exhibitor Raffle Prize Drawing

ASCE 7-22 Snow Loads: Understanding the Shift to Reliability-Targeted Snow Loads

Ground snow loads in ASCE 7-22 have been revised to incorporate additional years of data, greatly reduce case study areas, and have shifted to a reliability-targeted basis. Updates also include a new winter windiness factor, revised extent of windward drifts, and updated thermal factors. This presentation will review the reasons for these changes, explain how to use them in practice, as well as look to the future of how to address snow loads in a changing climate.

Speakers: Jeannette Torrents and Brennan Bean

10 Mistakes I have made with Software

As an engineer, understanding where things can go wrong is crucial for reliable results. Here is your invitation to explore various instances in my professional experience when things went awry with modeling, analysis, and design when using software. Solutions and best practices will be discussed.

Speaker: Samuel Rubenzer

Cracking the Code of Resilience: How Authenticity Fuels Your Engineering Superpower

Feeling the pressure? Tight deadlines, demanding projects, and constant challenges can leave even the most skilled engineer feeling drained and deflated. But what if there was a secret weapon to boost your resilience and thrive in the face of adversity? This interactive workshop dives deep into the surprising power of authenticity as the key to unlocking unbreakable resilience. Navigate challenges with confidence. Bounce back from setbacks quickly.

Speaker: Edna White

Innovation on Display: Exploring EXP's Intersection of Technology and Design

EXP, Northeastern University’s incredible new science, engineering, and laboratory facility, is more than a building; it is an invitation to witness how an achievement in structural engineering elevates the thrilling intersection of technology and design. The strategic positioning of a widely visible gantry crane, along with EXP’s glass transparency, robotic innovation, and visibility is a true testament to the relentless pursuit of excitement in the realm of scientific discovery. This interactive presentation will explore proven strategies and lessons learned, applicable to attendees’ own building projects.

Speaker: Adam Blanchard

More Coming Soon!

Community Resilience Is Now at The Center of Modern Model Building Code Development: Functional Recovery Provisions in the 2026 NEHRP Provisions PART 2

In January 2021, NIST and FEMA published FEMA P-2090/NIST SP-1254 Recommended Options for Improving the Built Environment for Post-Earthquake Reoccupancy and Functional Recovery Time, providing recommendations for enabling recovery from extreme seismic events. The first two of the seven recommendations in the report are (1) to develop a framework for post-earthquake reoccupancy and functional recovery objectives, and (2) to design new buildings to meet recovery-based objectives. Currently, the NIBS Building Seismic Safety Council, with support from FEMA, is developing the 2026 NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures (NEHRP Provisions) and defining functional recovery design criteria will be one of the key efforts during this NEHRP Provisions cycle. As the source material for ASCE and IBC seismic design requirements, the document NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures (NEHRP Recommended Provisions) builds on the latest ASCE 7-22 Seismic Chapters and makes modifications based on recent research and development, lessons learned from seismic events, and practitioner feedback. The PUC FRTC has convened five topic subcommittees to define Recovery Key Terms, Categories, Time Targets, Prescriptive Provisions, and Hazard Levels. This session will feature an overview of the key components relating to Prescriptive Provisions, and Hazard Levels and will be engaging attendees on their feedback of the proposed provision material.

Speakers: Ryan Kersting, Abbie Liel, and Nicolas Luco

The NCSEA Awards Celebration spotlights the ingenuity, creativity, and innovation within the structural engineering world. This year, NCSEA is thrilled to announce this annual event will be included with the purchase of a Summit registration. Held on Thursday evening, the celebration will include a short awards presentation, as well as an after-party with food, drinks, and entertainment. It’s sure to be a memorable evening, and we encourage all registrants to attend!

Thank you to our event sponsor, Atlas Tube, and to our Summit anchor sponsor, CSI!

One ticket is included in conference registration fee. You may purchase additional tickets for guests.

Learn more here.

Interested in some casual networking via group runs before the conference offerings begin? Whether you're just looking for a way to get your steps before sitting in conference rooms all day or training for a marathon, pack your shoes and plan on meeting up with the NCSEA Summit Run Club each morning.

Learn more here.

Time: 6:30am
Distance: 3mi+
Pace: TBD based on attendees
Route: loop

Organizer: Angelina Stasulis

Deflecting Disaster - Rehabilitating Chicago's Skyline

This presentation will take you through the step-by-step methodology of investigation and repair of an existing concrete framed structure that was exhibiting distress in the form of large deflections, high rate of failed repairs, and significant spalling of concrete balconies. The presentation will provide an overview of destructive and non-destructive testing methods available to determine in-situ properties, using that information to conduct an analysis of the existing flat plate slab, and verifying capacity of the existing structure. We will conclude with an overview of the rehabilitation approach that saved the client downtime and money.

Speakers: Zelina Johnson and Lauren Grana

Ethics Jeopardy

Attendees will be a guest in a game show barrage of 25 examples of professional ethical dilemmas and how to approach them within the context and confines of a variety of ethical lenses. We will cover what sets engineering professional ethics apart from individual morals and laws. The engineering ethical scenarios covered are applicable to all licensing jurisdictions. Prizes for participating audience members are included.

Speaker: Peter Marxhausen

SEI Session #3: 2024 IBC and ASCE/SEI 7-28: Loads on Temporary Structures

Temporary structures used for celebratory activities and for other public events cause confusion for design professionals and building officials enforcing public access. Until recently, structural loading requirements for temporary structures have been lacking in US building codes. This session will discuss the reasons for creating the new load provisions for temporary structures in the IBC and the need and planned process to migrate these provisions into ASCE/SEI 7.

Speakers: TBD

Cross Laminated Timber - Design to Manufacturing

This presentation will cover the responsibilities of the Structural Engineer of Record for cross laminated timber projects with both the SEOR taking full responsibility of all structural design elements or a mixed approach with deferred approval structural items. Specifications, connections, structural gravity, lateral and fire design, and successful coordination with the manufacturer during the shop drawing detailing phase will be reviewed. This presentation will also cover the benefits of specifying domestic timber to support rural economies and to meet sustainability goals including embodied carbon, carbon sequestration, and responsible forestry.

Speaker: Marc Rivard

Getting Started with AI in Structural Engineering: A Workshop with the AI Grant Team

Dive deep into practical applications and overcoming hurdles for using the AI within structural engineering. This workshop will be a hands-on activity format exploring the tactical strategies and innovations from the NCSEA AI Grant Team. The goal of the workshop is for each participant to take home a list of action items for their own firm in terms of developing strategy, policies to enable use of AI, understanding AI technology and applications, and making the most of your own data. Attendees will receive the newly unveiled AI in SE Roadmap and other resources to immediately develop and implement AI into their daily structural engineering practices.

The workshop will be geared towards a beginner level, and expects that each participant will have general familiarity with AI and is interested in using currently available AI tools.

Participants at an advanced level who are interested in detailed policy issues, creating AI tools, implementing customized workflows, and AI research would benefit from stopping by the NCSEA AI Grant Team’s Exhibit table for a more in-depth discussion.

Speakers: John-Michael Wong, Sheng Zheng, Emre Toprak, Dave Martin, Andrew Sundal, Ayush Singhania, and Aditya Kaushik

Break

Design Criteria and Design Constraints for Sustainability and Embodied Carbon

This presentation will introduce important and emerging design criteria and design constraints that engineers should be considering on their projects relative to sustainability and embodied carbon. Detailed guidance will be provided on how general notes, specifications and design workflow are likely to be affected when incorporating these considerations into the design process. Work beyond traditional code driven criteria and begin to explicitly address sustainable material sourcing, performance-based specifications, and global warming potential.

Speakers: Michael Lyons and Jessica Martinez

Understanding Seismic Design Across all Seismic Design Categories

Presentation will cover requirements in ASCE 7 and associated materials standards and how they vary across different SDC.

Speaker: Seth Thomas

Unveiling the Courtroom Chessboard: Legal Advocacy for and Against the Steel Fabricator

This program will take you into the courtroom where attorneys for the steel fabricator, general contractor, and engineer of record will argue factual and legal positions concerning the scope of work issues and cost impacts to a steel fabricator caused by design and project delays.

The audience will participate in this interactive presentation by responding to questions via text messaging following the presentation of an issue, similar to what a judge or jury would have to decide. Jason Copley

Speakers: John Godwin Tawresey, Paul Burmeister, George Pallas, Jason Copley, Matthey Skaroff and Ed Seglias

Understanding and Using the New ACI 563-24 Repair Specifications - What Structural Engineers need to Know

This presentation will educate structural engineers on how to use the new ACI 563-24 repair specifications on common concrete repair projects. Understanding the ACI 563 repair specifications will help engineers improve the quality of their projects, improve communication with repair contractors, and reduce costly change orders.

Speaker: John Lund

Break

The June 24, 2021, partial collapse of Champlain Towers South (CTS) in Surfside, Florida was one of the most tragic structural failures in US history. On June 30, 2021, NIST announced the formation of a National Construction Safety Team (NCST or Team) to investigate the failure. The unique goals of the CTS NCST investigation are to determine the likely technical cause or causes of the failure and make recommendations for changes in codes and standards of practice to avert future similar disasters and loss of life.

Using advanced technologies and a highly integrated, interdisciplinary approach, the six projects of the CTS NCST investigation involve study of the history of the site, the building, and relevant codes and standards; collection, preservation, and analysis of evidence; social science; remote sensing; data visualization; materials science; geotechnical engineering; and structural engineering.

This presentation will describe the NCST’s systematic approach to analyzing its hypotheses of the causes of the failure through investigation at the collapse site, examination and testing of physical evidence extracted from the collapsed building, collection and analysis of documents, scans and other imagery, interviews and focus groups of eyewitnesses and other stakeholders, reconstruction of the condition of the structure at the time of collapse, laboratory testing of full-scale replicas of components of the building, and advanced computer simulations of the collapse initiation and progression. Preliminary results of analyses to date will be presented.

Learn more here.