In this episode, we talk with Alexander Daddow, PE, CDT, senior strengthening solutions engineer at Simpson Strong-Tie, about how composite strengthening systems are revolutionizing structural engineering by enhancing durability, sustainability, and the way we reinforce structures for the future.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Alexander:
- How did realizing you didn’t want to be at a desk all day shape your career path?
- Can you explain composite strengthening systems and their role in engineering?
- What are the biggest misconceptions engineers have about composite strengthening solutions?
- What types of structures and projects typically use composite strengthening systems?
- What has been your most challenging or rewarding project, and what did you learn from it?
- What do you see as the future of composite strengthening and retrofitting in engineering?
- What advice would you give to young engineers looking to explore career paths beyond traditional roles?
Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Composite Strengthening Systems Unlocking A New Era Of Structural Engineering:
- Recognizing that a traditional desk job doesn’t align with personal strengths and preferences leads to exploring roles that allow for more interaction and fieldwork. Finding a position that balances technical expertise with engagement in real-world applications creates a more fulfilling career.
- Composite strengthening systems, such as FRP and FRCM, enhance structural integrity by bonding high-strength materials to existing concrete, masonry, or steel. These systems provide lightweight, effective reinforcement when properly installed with surface preparation and anchoring, making them valuable for retrofitting and repair.
- Many assume composite strengthening systems function as simple adhesive fixes, but their effectiveness depends on proper installation, testing, and engineering expertise. While these solutions enhance structural performance, they are not a universal remedy and require careful evaluation for each application.
- Composite strengthening systems apply to various structures, including historical buildings, infrastructure repairs, and seismic retrofits. Their ability to increase strength without significant weight or architectural modification makes them ideal for preserving existing structures while improving performance.
- Managing structural projects with multiple stakeholders requires extensive collaboration, clear communication, and strategic planning. Effective coordination among engineers, contractors, and regulatory agencies ensures high-quality results and minimizes potential obstacles.
- Advancements in composite strengthening continue to improve retrofitting techniques, with frameworks like ASC 41 providing essential guidelines for evaluating and reinforcing existing buildings. Industry collaboration, study sessions, and expert guidance help engineers apply these evolving solutions effectively.
- Paying attention to personal interests, embracing challenges, and remaining open to new opportunities leads to a more rewarding career. Engineers who actively seek roles that align with their strengths and values find greater success and long-term satisfaction.
More Details in This Episode…
About Alexander Daddow, PE, CDT
Alex Daddow is a registered professional engineer in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, Alaska, Washington, Oregon and Wyoming. He graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in architectural engineering. Before joining Simpson Strong-Tie in 2019, Alex was a consulting engineer working on podium structures, custom housing, bridges, historic retrofits, schools, and advanced foundation systems. He is now a senior strengthening solutions engineer and educates the industry on composite systems throughout the Pacific and Western regions. Alex also works directly with specifiers, installers, contractors, and plan reviewers, assisting them with the technical aspects of designing and building composite strengthening systems.
About the Hosts
Mathew Picardal, P.E., SE
Mathew is a licensed engineer, practicing on structural projects in California, with an undergraduate degree from Cal Poly Pomona and an M.S. in Structural Engineering from UC San Diego. He has designed and managed various types of building structures, including residential wood apartment buildings, commercial steel buildings, and concrete parking structures and towers. He also hosts the new YouTube channel “Structural Engineering Life,” through which he promotes the structural engineering profession to engineering students who are not familiar with the industry perspective.
Rachel Holland, P.E.
Rachel is an experienced R&D engineer, developing and patenting multiple new structural connectors. She also offers her expertise to both the end user and specifiers as a branch engineering supervisor. She represents Simpson Strong-Tie as a deck expert, educating others how to properly build code-compliant decks. Before her career working for a manufacturing company, she spent many years working for engineering consulting companies. She earned her Architectural Engineering undergrad degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from California State University, Monterey Bay. Rachel is a licensed P.E. in California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
Sources/References:
Simpson Strong-Tie
Cal Poly
International Concrete Repair Institute
American Concrete Institute
Division of the State Architect
Army Corps of Engineers
Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development
Connect with Alexander Daddow, PE, CDT, on LinkedIn
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