What Not to Ignore - Forensic Engineering Concepts and Case Studies

Thursday, October 22
8:30 am – 12:30 pm

Most failures are understandable—once you know what to look for. Construction failures rarely stem from a single error. More often, they arise from overlooked signals: assumptions left unexamined, constructability challenges treated as secondary, or decisions made under pressure without full appreciation of their long-term consequences. At the same time, many construction successes depend on quiet judgment calls that prevent problems before they fully form, yet are rarely documented or taught. 

This workshop, jointly sponsored by ASCE’s Construction Institute and the Forensic Engineering Division, examines what not to ignore at key stages of design, construction, and early service life. Drawing on forensic investigations and construction case studies, the presenters explore how constructability, sequencing, temporary conditions, material behavior, and human factors interact—sometimes reinforcing robust performance, and other times introducing conditions that later manifest as serviceability or durability concerns. Rather than cataloging defects or assigning blame, the session emphasizes failure literacy: recognizing early warning signs, distinguishing causes from contributors, and understanding how reasonable decisions can compound under real-world constraints. 

The workshop also considers how lessons from construction successes and failures can be carried back into engineering education and early professional development, strengthening judgment, mentoring, and decision-making across the profession.

• Advanced Registration Price: $250
• On-Site Registration Price:$350
• 4PDHs

Best Practices for Expert Witness Testimony

Thursday, October 22
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Expert witnesses play a pivotal role in forensic engineering investigations, particularly during testimony where their credibility, clarity, and professionalism are rigorously tested. This multi-session panel, led by members of the ASCE Committee on Forensic Investigations (CFI), will provide presentation, discussion, and interactive mock testimony of forensic engineers by experienced attorneys. 

The sessions will cover the basics of deposition and trial testimony with advice, tips, and practical knowledge gained from the presenters’ experiences with legal cases, as well as the evolving role of expert witnesses in the context of digital evidence, remote depositions, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Time will be allotted for open discussion, questions, and case studies where the attendees will question the expert acting as the cross-examining attorney. By fostering dialogue between engineers, attorneys, and forensic professionals, this session contributes to the broader mission of ASCE’s Forensic Engineering Division: to advance the integrity and effectiveness of forensic practice. Attendees will leave with practical guidance, enhanced awareness of legal processes, and a deeper appreciation for the expert witness’s role in achieving just outcomes.

• Advanced Registration Price: $250
• On-Site Registration Price: $350
• 4PDHs

Topics to be covered:

• Basic strategy for testimony at deposition and trial
• Common difficulties encountered during testimony and tips to make it easier
• Mock testimony with discussion of good and bad responses
• Mock testimony with attendees questioning the expert.