Meet the Editor: Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction

The Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction publishes articles about practical solutions to structural design problems and construction challenges of interest to practitioners and researchers. Soliman Khudeira, Ph.D., P.E., S.E., spoke with ASCE Publications on his editorship and his passion for engineering. Dr. Khudeira is an Adjunct Professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology and Section Chief of Major Projects with CDOT- Division of Engineering.

ASCE Publications: What separates the Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction (PPSDC) from others in the field?

Soliman Khudeira: The papers published in the PPSDC balances the interest of both practitioners and researches. Generally, we publish articles that will appeal to a significant number of practicing engineers, researchers, and contractors. Articles reporting on small and medium-sized projects are accepted, and we publish research topics that have practical applications.

We need to continue to bridge the gap between academics and industry practitioners. The need for increased collaboration between academia and the industry could be bridged through the Practice Periodical.

ASCE Publications: Tell me some of the hot topics being covered in your journal.

Soliman Khudeira: Structural health monitoring – This is relatively new and important application used to improve safety of structures, increase life-span, and reduce maintenance costs. There has been research on installation of sensors in the structure during construction. This was not widely implemented previously due to high cost of installation and monitoring. However, with the advancements in communication / computer technology, it is becoming more common to design and install structural health monitoring systems.

Earthquake resistance – We have been receiving more submittals which deal with how existing structures can be modified to withstand earthquake forces. In some regions, the area may not have been seismically active when these structures were constructed. Innovative and cost effective methods are needed to retrofit these existing structures.

ASCE Publications: Describe changes have you seen in your field during your time with the Journal.

Soliman Khudeira: Higher material: Higher material strength (including steel and concrete) requires changes to codes and design parameters and methods.

Sustainable design and construction methods are now included in all areas of civil engineering. We cannot continue to design and build structures that aren’t sustainable. The population of planet earth is increasing by around 75 million annually, and constructing sustainable structures is clearly needed.

Academics face the challenge of maintaining a balanced research portfolio of both basic and applied research. Both types of research are dependent on each other. What and how we teach students must keep pace with industry changes.

Changes in the design and construction processes: This includes the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM), Accelerate Bridge Construction (ABC), and other tools used by both engineers and contractors.

ASCE Publications: What drew you to civil engineering?

Soliman Khudeira: I started my civil engineering education overseas, where civil engineering was one of the top, highly-respected fields of study among all engineering and non-engineering disciplines. Naturally, I aspired to study a top field, and civil engineering was the clear choice for me.

I was always fascinated by high-rise buildings, skyscrapers, bridges, and roadways; and curious about who builds these. Civil engineers of course. A structure is something that you can feel and see, and that people can use. It’s gratifying when people appreciate your work, and see the benefits it can provide.

ASCE Publications: Thoughts on being Chief Editor?

Soliman Khudeira: My experience as an editor has been very rewarding. It is an effective way of giving back to the profession. I recommend it for anyone who wants to be up to date on the latest global research and application in civil engineering.

As an editor, you get to be the first to read papers on the latest technologies and the most current practical research and application.

ASCE Publications: Aspirations for the future of the journal?

Soliman Khudeira: I’d like to increase the number of submitted papers. With more content, we can further improve the overall quality of the journal.

I have been working on expanding the number of associate editors and reviewers. Having more associate editors and reviewers will help spread the work load, and provide diversified area of expertise.

Continue to use the journal to bridge the gap between academics and industry practitioners. Collaboration between academia and the industry could be bridged through this Practice Periodical. We need to continue to improve the ranking of the journal.

ASCE Publications: Any advice for new civil engineer?

Soliman Khudeira: Be active in your professional engineering society (ASCE and others). As a member, you will receive up-to-date information, and you will always stay current in your field.

Obtain professional licenses (PE and SE). Your license will distinguish you and shows your commitment to the profession.

Improve your communication and leadership skills. Attending seminars, webinars, and conferences, will help improve your skills.

Double check your work. We often focus on performance, rather than accuracy. This is not always a recommended balance.

Volunteer in an engineering association. Volunteerism contributes greatly to the advancement of the profession and society, as well as to your own personal and professional growth and satisfaction.

Learn more about contributing to the Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction.