In this episode, we talk with Adedeji Disu, Ph.D., Aff.M.ASCE., Senior Geotechnical Engineer at ABNA Corporation, about the power of geo-structural engineering, what it is, why it’s critical to the future of infrastructure, and how he’s mentoring the next generation of engineers to go beyond the technical, think bigger, act with purpose, and lead with impact.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Adedeji:
- Can you explain what geo-structural engineering is and why it’s important in today’s infrastructure projects?
- What are some common misconceptions engineers have about how soil behaves and how it affects the structure above it?
- Can you share a geo-structural challenge you’ve faced that helped you grow as both an engineer and a mentor?
- How do you help young engineers go beyond just doing calculations and start thinking about the bigger picture in their designs?
- How do you encourage engineers to be curious, communicate well across teams, and think beyond their own discipline?
- What final piece of advice would you give to engineers who want to become confident and effective technical mentors in their field?
Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Geo-Structural Engineering Explained for Modern Infrastructure Challenges:
- Geo-structural engineering brings together geotechnical and structural knowledge to ensure that buildings and foundations work effectively with the ground beneath them. It plays a critical role in creating safe and resilient infrastructure that responds to changing soil conditions and environmental demands.
- Many engineers believe that soil behaves like concrete or steel, with consistent properties, but soil is highly variable and unpredictable. Structural failures are often linked to soil movement, moisture changes, or settlement rather than flaws in the building itself.
- On a tall building project, going deeper with piles than originally planned ensured long-term stability despite added costs. By standing firm on quality and safety, the engineer gained valuable experience that strengthens confidence in high-stakes decisions.
- Young engineers are encouraged to understand both why a design is needed and how it will be constructed in the field. Real impact comes from connecting calculations to the actual process of building safely and efficiently.
- Engineers build stronger teams by showing respect for other disciplines and asking thoughtful questions. Patience, open communication, and a willingness to learn help them gain perspective and contribute more meaningfully.
- Engineers who spend time in the field develop deeper insight into how their designs perform in real conditions. That understanding helps them guide others more effectively and contribute with both technical skill and practical judgment.
More Details in This Episode…
About Adedeji Disu, Ph.D., Aff.M.ASCE.
Dr. Disu is a seasoned geo-structural engineer, educator, and researcher with over 15 years of demonstrated expertise in the design and analysis of deep foundations. He holds a Ph.D. in geotechnical engineering from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, with research interests spanning geopolymer-stabilized soils, dynamic soil-structure interaction, and deep foundation systems.
An advocate for precision in technical communication and construction management, Dr. Disu possesses a keen attention to detail. His scholarly contributions include numerous peer-reviewed publications in leading international journals, such as those of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and Springer. He also serves as a reviewer for the journal of Geotechnical and Geo-environmental Engineering and the journal of Rock Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering.
Dr. Disu maintains active professional affiliations with the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the Structural Engineering Institute (SEI), the Deep Foundations Institute (DFI), and the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE).
About the Hosts
Mathew Picardal, P.E., SE
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.
Sources/References:
ABNA Corporation
Connect with Adedeji Disu, Ph.D., Aff.M.ASCE., on LinkedIn
AEC PM Certification
AEC PM Connect
Project Management Accelerator™
Engineering Leadership Accelerator™
Keynote Speaking
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