In this episode, I talk with Kevin Gorman, MSCE, PE, CCM, vice president at Robson Forensic, Inc., about forensic engineering in civil engineering and how it connects the worlds of civil engineering disputes and the legal system. We cover what drives construction claims analysis, how delivery methods shape outcomes, and the skills engineers need to succeed in expert witness engineering.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Kevin Gorman, MSCE, PE, CCM:
- How would you explain forensic engineering in civil engineering to someone unfamiliar with it?
- What are the most common issues that cause civil engineering disputes or delays in infrastructure projects, and what strategies can help minimize them?
- How do public and private project delivery methods differ when it comes to construction claims analysis, quality control, accountability, and project outcomes?
- What skills are essential for engineers who provide expert witness engineering testimony or prepare legal engineering reports for court cases?
- How has new technology, such as AI and advanced simulation tools, changed the way forensic engineering in civil engineering analyzes data or presents evidence?
- In complex infrastructure failure investigation cases with multiple stakeholders, how do you ensure effective communication and collaboration for a fair and thorough investigation?
- What emerging trends or challenges do you see shaping the future of forensic engineering in civil engineering?
- What advice would you give civil engineers interested in pursuing a career in forensic engineering in civil engineering, and which skills should they focus on developing?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Forensic Engineering in Civil Engineering Resolves Project Disputes:
- Forensic engineering in civil engineering is the investigation of technical issues that result in legal disputes, such as crashes, contract conflicts, or questions of quality. It involves analyzing events, determining causes, and providing expert witness engineering opinions that can be used in court.
- The main causes of civil engineering disputes include unexpected site conditions, design errors, unclear contract language, and quality concerns. Clear specifications, early communication, and fair resolution methods help reduce delays and strengthen project outcomes.
- Both sectors rely on quality control and accountability, but public projects often use the lowest-bid process, which increases the likelihood of construction claims analysis or poor performance. Private projects allow more flexibility in contractor selection, frequently resulting in stronger outcomes based on qualifications and experience.
- Engineers need strong writing, clear communication, and confident public speaking skills in addition to technical expertise. These abilities allow complex findings to be explained in simple terms that judges and juries can understand.
- AI creates both opportunities and challenges, as courts require confirmation that legal engineering reports and opinions are the expert’s own work. While advanced tools improve analysis, credibility still depends on transparent and expert-driven methods.
- Forensic engineering in civil engineering cases typically involves limited cooperation between opposing sides, making credibility and process vital. Effective investigations depend on clear internal communication, reliable scheduling, and strict adherence to the Federal Rules of Evidence.
- The standard for expert witness engineering quality and analysis continues to rise, with courts and juries expecting increasingly detailed and reliable work. At the same time, the role of AI in expert practice presents new challenges across the industry.
- Engineers should take the FE exam early, pursue varied experiences, and gain hands-on field exposure to understand real-world conditions. Earning a PE license and building both depth and breadth of knowledge are essential for long-term success in forensic engineering in civil engineering.
More Details in This Episode…
About Kevin Gorman, MSCE, PE, CCM
Kevin Gorman, MSCE, PE, CCM, serves as vice president and civil engineering & highway expert at Robson Forensic, Inc. With nearly two decades of experience spanning public-sector roles at PennDOT, consulting with state DOTs, and construction oversight, Kevin brings an unmatched depth of expertise in roadway design, inspection, maintenance, failure analysis, and bridge and intersection reconstruction.
Before his engineering career, Kevin spent nearly ten years as a police officer, where he investigated vehicle crashes and pedestrian incidents. This unique combination—as both a certified accident reconstructionist and professional engineer—gives him exceptional insight into how infrastructure performance can influence the cause and outcome of traffic incidents. He holds a BS in civil engineering from Cornell University, an MS in civil engineering from the University of Pittsburgh, and an MS in criminal justice from Nova Southeastern University and is certified as a construction manager (CCM) through the CMAA.
Books Mentioned in This Episode:
Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds
The 5 Levels of Leadership: Proven Steps to Maximize Your Potential
PPI PE Civil Reference Manual, 16th Edition, A Comprehensive Civil Engineering Review Book
Sources/References:
Robson Forensic
Cornell University
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)
Michael Baker International
U.S. Army
Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam
Professional Engineer (PE) License
Federal Rules of Evidence
Connect with Kevin Gorman, MSCE, PE, CCM on LinkedIn
AEC PM Certification
AEC PM Connect
Project Management Accelerator™
Engineering Leadership Accelerator™
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