In this episode, I talk with Shawn Lapain, P.Eng, senior geotechnical engineer at AECOM, about the groundbreaking innovations in pavement design and rehabilitation that keep roads resilient in the harshest environments, from scorching deserts to icy tundras.
***The video version of this episode can be viewedย here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Shawn:
- What challenges do you face when designing and rehabilitating pavements in varying climates?
- How does client service shape your approach to project management and engineering design?
- How do you bring together teams from different disciplines to manage complex infrastructure projects effectively?
- What recent advancements in pavement design and engineering have you observed, and how are they transforming the industry?
- How do you ensure the success of pavement rehabilitation projects when dealing with unknown subgrade conditions?
- What is the role of falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing in pavement investigations, and how do you apply the data?
- How has working across Canada and the U.S. influenced your approach to geotechnical engineering?
- What is one key leadership lesson from your career that continues to shape how you lead today?
- What final piece of advice would you give to engineers starting their careers in geotechnical and pavement design and engineering?
Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Tips to Advance Pavement Design With Outstanding Results:
- Designing and rehabilitating pavements in diverse climates requires addressing unique challenges such as frost-susceptible clay, extreme temperature swings, and complex soil conditions. Climate change and environmental considerations also demand sustainable solutions that respect cultural and ecological values.
- Client service in engineering projects emphasizes tailoring communication to the clientโs understanding, supporting asset management, and aligning technical solutions with expectations and budgets. Clear communication and delivering value help build strong, long-term client relationships.
- Leading multidisciplinary teams on complex projects depends on clear and proactive communication, encouraging teamwork, and addressing issues early. Viewing engineering as a service-oriented field strengthens relationships and ensures efficient project execution.
- Advancements in pavement design and engineering include using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) for efficient data collection, falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing for load assessments, and low-carbon concrete for sustainable construction. Drone technology further improves surveying capabilities in challenging areas while minimizing disruptions.
- Ensuring the success of pavement rehabilitation projects involves robust risk management strategies, optimizing designs, and budgeting for contingencies. Acknowledging unknowns between data points and planning for surprises protects both the client and project outcomes.
- Falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing enhances pavement investigations by complementing borehole data, assessing load transfer efficiency, and evaluating subgrade strength. This method provides valuable insights for asset management and design optimization, particularly in high-traffic areas and airfields.
- Working across Canada and the U.S. shapes engineering approaches by emphasizing the need for site-specific adaptations, thorough research, and hands-on involvement. Drawing on diverse experiences improves understanding of local conditions and enables better-informed design recommendations.
- Effective leadership focuses on listening to team members and recognizing the value of ideas from all experience levels. Mentoring, teamwork, and a collaborative mindset are essential for successful project management and team growth.
- Aspiring engineers in geotechnical and pavement design and engineering benefit from embracing travel opportunities, prioritizing continuous learning, and approaching their careers with curiosity and passion. Finding joy and meaning in their work leads to impactful and rewarding careers.
More Details in This Episodeโฆ
About Shawn Lapain, P.Eng
Shawn Lapain is a senior geotechnical engineer with over 15 years of diverse experience in foundation and pavement engineering. Mr. Lapain has experience with the design, construction, and site supervision of numerous projects ranging from simple to extremely complex both in Canada and the United States.
Lapain has been involved in the planning, execution and supervision of numerous field investigations and provided technical engineering support for pavements and foundation engineering projects, including research and development. He has experience and expertise in the execution of design-build projects, project planning, development of alternative designs, cost and schedule control, project management, policy development, advisory services, forensic assessment, and overall project delivery.
Examples of project types Mr. Lapain has participated in have included building development, rehabilitation of dam structures, structural culvert renewal, bridge rehabilitation, slope stability, infrastructure renewal (integrated road and sewer assignments), construction liaison, investigation and design of new road alignments, Roadway improvements, and Highway widening and pavement rehabilitation.
About the Host: Jared M. Green, PE,ย BC.GE, F.ASCE
Jared, originally from southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduated from Syracuse Universityโs College of Engineering in 2001 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He later went on to attain his M.S. in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Focus) from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Campaign, in 2002. In 2003, he began working in the New York City office of Langan. He has since become a Principal / Vice President and is one of the owners of this international land development engineering consulting firm. After 15 years at Langan, Jared moved to the Philadelphia office and is one of the geotechnical practice leaders in that office.
Jared is a consultant and team leader who also enjoys mentoring young engineers and first-generation college students. He has been instrumental in increasing the number of pre-college students who are interested in STEAM majors and fields. He strives to make complex engineering topics relatable and understandable to people new to the field and to people who are completely unfamiliar with engineering. Jared and his family currently reside in Flemington, New Jersey. He and his wife have three energetic, inquisitive, and awesome children. You can connect with Jaredย here.
Sources/References:
AECOM
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD)
Low-carbon Concrete
Nuclear Densometer
Delaware River Bridge
Connect with Shawn Lapain, P.Eng, on LinkedIn
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