IRF Fellowship and Road Scholar Programs Includes Class of 2017 Fellow Profiles
Photo: Class of 2016 IRF Fellows at The World Bank
Message from the IRF Chairman 1
Paving the Way for the Next Generation of Transportation Leaders For 68 years the IRF Fellowship Program has been the “crown jewel” of the International Road Federation. Since 1949, IRF members and donors have helped fund the education of 1,400 transportation professionals from 118 countries. The Fellowship Program identifies students with outstanding potential, and once identified, helps nurture them as they take their place as the next generation of transportation industry leaders. As chairman of the IRF, I am proud to say that alumni of the IRF Program have returned home to become heads of state, ministers, chief executive officers, university professors and chief engineers — all of whom are highly regarded transportation professionals. What makes this Program unique is not just the scope of countries involved, or the amount of financial support provided to the IRF Fellows over six decades, but it is a combination of those factors plus a leadership program especially designed for the Fellows after they graduate. The IRF Road Scholar Program is designed to build relationships with transportation leaders from around the world, while the IRF Fellows Alumni Association (IFAA) maintains the bonds between alumni. Due to the amazing impact of this Program, and knowing that it changes people’s lives and the countries in which they work, one of my top goals as IRF chairman is to increase the endowment of the International Road Educational Foundation (IREF), which is the permanent funding mechanism of the IRF Fellowship Program. As chairman, I ask you to join me in support of the Foundation — contributions can be made through our website at www.IRF.global, or by calling the IRF office. Please be assured no gift is too big or too small. In closing, I am proud to present you with the profiles of the IRF Fellows - Class of 2017.
Abdullah A. Al-Mogbel Chairman International Road Federation
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About the Programs
IRF Fellowship Program The IRF Fellowship Program for graduate engineers and transportation managers has been a cornerstone in the work of the International Road Federation for 68 years. Founded in 1949, the program enhances the professional curriculum of graduate students in fields related to the development of better and safer roads, and their ability to meaningfully improve transportation in their home countries. Every year, one-time financial grants are awarded by the International Road Educational Foundation (IREF) to a select group of applicants. IRF Members and IRF Fellow alumni have the opportunity to nominate a student; however, any graduate-level student may apply. Each candidate’s credentials are reviewed by a committee comprised of members of the IREF Board of Directors. The committee awards financial grants to selected students based on a strong academic background, professional qualifications and leadership potential. As a prerequisite, candidates must provide evidence of intent to return to their home countries upon completion of the IRF Fellowship.
IRF Road Scholar Program The IRF Road Scholar Program is an annual program, spanning more than a week, which brings together the new class of IRF Fellows in Washington, DC. The Program is designed to enhance Fellows’ leadership skills and provide valuable insight into the transportation industry through visits to prominent regional and international organizations, as well as transportation research centers. Moreover, team-oriented activities allow participants to form long-lasting professional and personal bonds with their current class, as well as with past and future Fellows via the IRF Fellows Alumni Association (IFAA). Furthermore, Fellows are afforded the opportunity to meet and interact with successful business leaders who work for IRF member organizations. For IRF members, the Road Scholar Program is the perfect opportunity to connect with the Fellows, many of whom have gone on to remarkable careers spanning all transport disciplines.
IRF Member Universities To further its goal of educating tomorrow’s transportation leaders, the IRF works with a network of Member Universities to disseminate industry best practices and innovative solutions. Arizona State University (ASU) Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR), University of South Florida
Northwestern University, Transportation Center
University of Costa Rica
Ohio State University
University of Florida - Transportation Research Center
Penn State University
University of Delaware
Chonbuk National University
Purdue University
Escuela de Graduados Ingeniería de Caminos
Qatar University
University of Maryland Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Ryerson University
University of Massachusetts
Saint Louis University
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
George Mason University Georgia Institute of Technology
Texas A&M University Institute of Police Technology and Management, University of North Florida Texas Southern University Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) Iowa State University - Institute for Transportation (INTRANS) The University of Texas at Tyler
University of Padova – DICEA
Istanbul Technical University
Umm Al-Qura University
University of Texas at El Paso
Louisiana State University
University of Alabama
University of Washington
National Central University, Institute of Construction and Management
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University
National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences (KUAS) New Mexico State University
University of Bahrain University of California Pavement Research Center University of Central Florida
University of Southern California University of Tennessee University of Texas at Austin
Wuhan University of Technology, Center for Advanced Technology of Road Engineering (CATRE)
IREF Leadership 3
IREF Board of Directors The International Road Educational Foundation Board of Directors is comprised of individuals and representatives of organizations who have been elected based on their commitment to the goals and objectives of the Foundation.
OFFICERS
Chairman Essam Radwan
University of Central Florida
Treasurer
Lester Yoshida
Parsons Corporation
Secretary
Fazil T. Najafi
University of Florida
President & CEO
C. Patrick Sankey
IFAA Chairman
Taylor Lochrane*
IRF Chairman
Abdullah A. Al-Mogbel
IREF Immediate Past Chairman
Michael G. Dreznes
International Road Federation FHWA Turner Fairbanks Research Facility Ministry of Transport, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (formerly) International Road Federation
DIRECTORS Margaret Akofio-Sowah* WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff Mahsa Ettefagh* Booz Allen Hamilton Akio Kasuga Sumitomo Mitsui Construction Company Masato Matsumoto* Nexco-West USA, Inc. Gregg Mitchell Trinity Highway Products Shafik Nasser SABER Investment Company L.L.C. Kadri Parris* Ohio State University Fuad Rihani Saudi Binladin Group T. Peter Ruane ARTBA William F. Troxler, Jr. Troxler Electronic Laboratories
COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Development Committee Essam Radwan Finance Committee Lester Yoshida Nominating Committee Michael G. Dreznes
EMERITAS MEMBERS
Jeffrey R. Reed
Valley Slurry Seal Company
* Denotes individual is an alumni of the IRF Fellowship Program.
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Agenda: 2017 Road Scholar Program
SUNDAY, JANUARY 8 Morning
Fellows Arrival
12:30 — 13:30
Lunch
13:30 — 15:00
Introduction to IRF
15:00 — 15:15
Break
15:15 — 18:00
Leadership Presentations
18:00 — 18:30
Wrap-up and Roundtable Discussion
MONDAY, JANUARY 9 08:00 — 12:30
Visit to The World Bank
14:00 — 18:00
Attend TRB Activities
TUESDAY, JANUARY 10 07:00 — 08:30
IRF Committee on Asset Management IRF Committee on ITS
10:00 — 13:45
Attend TRB Activities
10:00 — 11:30
IRF General Assembly Meeting
12:00 — 14:00
IRF / IREF Board Member Luncheon
13:30 — 14:00
Fellows Meet with IRF President & CEO, Mr. C. Patrick Sankey
14:30 — 14:45
Bridge Building Instructions
14:45 — 15:45
Fellows Begin Design Plans and Go Shopping for Materials
15:45 — 18:00
Bridge Building Competition
15:45 — 19:30
IRF Reception
18:15 — 19:15
Judging for Bridge Building Competition
19:30 — 21:30
Fellows Reunion Dinner
21:30
Fellows Depart for Hotel
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 08:00 — 09:30
IRF Member Presentations
Class of 2017 5
10:30 — 12:00
Visit to Federal Highway Administration
13:30 — 15:00
Visit to American Council of Engineering Companies
15:00 — 19:00
Attend TRB Activities
19:15 — 22:00
Reception and Hat Exchange Dinner
THURSDAY, JANUARY 12 09:00 — 11:00 13:00 — 15:00
Visit to American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Visit to Turner-Fairbank Research Facility
18:00 — 23:00
Final Exam
FRIDAY, JANUARY 13 08:00 — 09:30
Graduation Ceremony
10:00
Hotel Check-out
IRF FELLOWS ALUMNI REUNIONS
2016 REUNION: WASHINGTON, DC
2015 REUNION: WASHINGTON, DC
17TH IRF WORLD MEETING REUNION: RIYADH
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Fellow Profiles
Emmanuel (Kofi) Adanu Civil Engineering
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? I hope to work with any global institution that works in low and middle income countries in the areas of planning and policy development to promote sustainable and resilient transportation systems, with particular interests in roads and highways.
GHANA University of Alabama Email ekadanu@crimson.ua.edu
What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career? I wish to help governments in the development of evidence-based policies to tackle transportation problems such as congestion, pollutions, traffic crashes, and maintenance of transportation infrastructure. I also wish to be able to work with many transportation stakeholders to help develop sound strategies to achieve transport sustainability and resilience to promote socioeconomic growth. Finally, I hope to become a university professor where I can transfer the rich knowledge I would have accrued from the industry and across the world to my students. This will ensure that my students are groomed to solve real-life problems when they graduate.
How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/ advance road development around the world? It is a rare privilege to become an IRF Fellow. This will give me the opportunity to learn the inner workings of the the federation. I am very passionate about promoting sustainable and resilient transportation systems across the globe with particular interest in low and middle income countries. I hope to collaborate with and help bring many of the IRF programs to many of these countries. With my expertise in data analytics, I hope to work with the IRF so as to promote evidence-based programs that will have positive impacts in the road sector. Finally, I wish to work with the IRF to seek funding to expand the fellowship program so that many more future applicants can benefit.
What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? I hope to gain insights into the workings, past projects/programs and future plans for the Federation. I believe that this program will expose me to the resources and opportunities available at the IRF. It is my expectation that the program will help hone my analytical, decision-making, and leadership skills. I believe this is an opportunity for me to gain great practical knowledge from experts working in the field. I also hope to get the opportunity to interact with the staff and the other fellows. This will give me the opportunity to learn, share ideas with them, and even explore the chances of future collaborations. I hope the program will eventually positively influence my future work as a transportation engineer.
Sponsored by:
Class of 2017 7
Tania Ávila Pavements and Materials
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? Research in materials for pavement construction and developing technical specifications for construction of pavements.
What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career? I work as an engineer in the National Laboratory of Materials and Structural Models of the University of Costa Rica (LanammeUCR), which is acknowledged as the best laboratory of materials and bituminous mixtures in Central America and one of the best in Latin America. By working at LanammeUCR I’ll be able to generate applied research and technical manuals in the area of construction and maintenance of roads and also execute technology transfer to the public, which at the end will make me able to help my country.
COSTA RICA Universidad de Costa Rica Email tania.avilaesquivel@ucr.ac.cr
How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/ advance road development around the world? By attending the IRF Executive Leadership Program I’ll be able to interact with international leaders, which will help me build important connections for life that would improve the work I’ll do in my country. I also want to be that person for other IRF Fellows and help them by sharing the knowledge gained throughout my life. I’ll also have the opportunity to host future IRF programs, as my employer has previously done by offering IRF workshops and thus providing the opportunity to other colleagues to update their knowledge in the road and transport industry.
What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? Being able to participate in the IRF Executive Leadership Program this year is an opportunity to gain professional experience by attending the Transportation Research Board Annual Metting where there will be more than 12,000 transportation professionals from around the world addressing topics of interest to policy makers, administrators, practitioners, researchers, and representatives of government, industry, and academic institutions. It will also enhance my professional development, create connections with people in the industry where I work, and learn about new techniques and processes that are taking place around the world. Yet, the most important thing is to have the opportunity to improve transportation in my home country.
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Fellow Profiles
Deog Sang Bae Transportation Infrastructure Financing
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? Infrastructure financing, Public Private Partnership Planning, Asset Secularization and Evaluation. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career?
SOUTH KOREA Texas A&M Transportation Institute Email d-bae@tti.tamu.edu
Transportation infrastructure development requires a tremendous budget so always finding a source is challenging. As a transportation financing specialist, I would like to contribute to this world by introducing optimized fiscal tools. To reflect the complexity of infrastructure construction, this optimization will include aspects ranging from financial to political. Developed countries could benefit from this tool due to cost savings. Additionally, developing countries could benefit from this tool due to an increase in available resource utilization. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? The IRF has an extensive global road professionals network. Such a massive network could provide me with chances to be exposed to a variety of road financing issues. Within the network, by helping each other, our members could address global issues and make great strides. As an IRF Fellow, I would like to actively share knowledge with other IRF members and participate in IRF events. By sharing my construction financing knowledge and experiences, I would like to contribute to the organization and, if possible, I would like to find business opportunities through the connections created by the IRF. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? The IRF Road Scholar Program is a wonderful curriculum that provides many academic and professional sessions. Among these, I am delighted to visit the World Bank and meet with its staff. The World Bank is a central organization that manages international aid and provides policy consultancy to developing countries. Road infrastructure is essential for economic growth but needs extensive funds in a short time. I hope to listen to road planning intiatives from the professionals at the World Bank. In addition, I am excited to meet the other IRF Fellows. They are highly competitive students and future scholars. Having a discussion on a specific topic as well as hearing their cultural uniqueness will be a wonderful experience for me.
Sponsored by:
Class of 2017 9
Dirk BeGell Transportation Materials
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? I aspire to work as a pavement engineer and possibly work as a professor with a concentration on pavement engineering. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career? I am trying to incorporate the concepts of 3D printing into the paving industry. I am currently researching several possible applications including improved base layer designs. Currently, very few applications for 3D printing have been identified for pavements and pavement related challenges. Many challenges faced by traditional techniques can be addressed by incorporation of 3D printing, including; Educational; Evaluation techniques; Maintenance; Rehabilitation; Material Testing. In addition I would like to create a 3D printer that uses cement as a printing material for use in laboratory experiments at Arizona State University. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? I am willing to work with the IRF in any capacity required to assist in pavement design, evaluation, maintenance, rehabilitation, and preservation. Improving the quality and safety for pavement structures while extending their lifespans is very important for the future of society. Development of cost saving techniques and exploration of new materials for roadway design and maintenance can assist countries around the world improve road conditions and provide a longer lasting pavement. It is also important to concentrate on sustainable options such as recycled materials which will reduce harmful emissions released by the paving process. Together we can help make cleaner, safer, better quality roadway networks. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? I hope to learn more about current paving technologies and make valuable contacts with industry professionals that share the same concerns about the future of pavements. There is a vast wealth of knowledge to be gained from political policies, pavement engineers, contractors, consultants and industries that provide materials and equipment used in the paving process. The opportunity to communicate with these groups of individuals will be an invaluable asset to an up and coming pavement engineer like myself. Armed with academic knowledge as well as knowledge that can only be attained from years of working in the field, future pavement engineers can help improve the transportation industry.
Sponsored by:
USA Arizona State University Email dbegell@asu.edu
Fellow Profiles
Josie Bianchi Civil Engineering - Transportation
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? I hope to work in the transportation sector, either public or private. I want to work as a researcher or in a development team as part of a transportation agency. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career?
Email josie.bianchi@upr.edu
How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? As a transportation expert I will focus all my efforts in being an active IRF member and conduct research in important areas of road development like sustainable transportation systems, ITS systems, road safety improvements and performance, among others. I want to make a contribution to transportation systems through the design and development of better roads for commuting. This involves integrating principles of sustainable and complete roads, including the design of livable communities around transportation systems and the development of innovative strategies to maximize road safety and minimize road hazards. I hope to be available to make a difference in my community and the world through the development of better and safer roads and transportation systems. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? I hope my participation in the IRF Executive Leadership Program will be an excellent learning and networking experience, including familiarizing myself with other road and transportation systems, as well as strategies and perspectives from other countries. I expect the IRF Executive Leadership Program to provide a better understanding of the road and transportation agencies in the USA and across the IRF global membership. I want to develop my professional career within the road and transportation sector; therefore, I recognize the opportunity the IRF has given me to participate in the program and TRB Conference. I expect to learn and network about the road industry as much possible.
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University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez
As a transportation researcher I want to develop better transportation systems, including but not limited to sustainable development and construction of highway infrastructure, sustainable roads, transit systems, traffic systems and vulnerable user systems, among others. I want to improve transportation urban planning systems through new and innovative strategies focusing on user safety and the implementation of new technologies. My main goal in my career is to become a leader in the transportation industry in order to make positive changes and to move forward with the new generation.
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Class of 2017 11
Georges (George) Bou Saab Transportation Systems Engineering
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? I am planning to work in academia starting as an assistant professor. I also aim to continue working in the research field and become a prominent scholar. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career? Education is a substantive asset that enables students to realize and achieve their potential. The aspiration and primary purpose of becoming a prominent educator is to promote the excitement in knowledge, expression of innovative and creative ideas, and exploration of new horizons. I am hoping to leave a positive trace in the lives of all students during their educational journey and make them passionate about the field of transportation engineering. I want to set a great example to the students and always make them look forward to the next class. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? Transportation is considered to be the most critical sector of the economy. Cities around the world are aiming to become more dynamic which requires effective planning with regards to managing urban growth, improving transportation safety and developing innovative energy and environmental solutions. I certainly believe that the International Road Federation is a gateway for all professionals and pioneers to assemble, share ideas and propose solutions. We are constantly striving to connect the world, enhance service and make roads a safer infrastructure for travel. Therefore, I will make sure to interact with IRF members, and attend conferences and workshops to stay updated in my specific research domain of traffic safety and transportation air quality. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? Participating in the prestigious the IRF Executive Leadership Program will expose me to the immense opportunity of meeting with leaders, mentors and scholars in the field of transportation that are contributing to the advancement and development of better roads around the world. I am eager to learn from their personal and professional experiences to improve my leadership skills that will help shape my future career. I am also looking forward to the team building exercises which will allow me to interact with other fellows and that can potentially lead to future collaborations on various research efforts or workshops. I am hoping to establish a robust network of peers and professionals.
Sponsored by:
LEBANON Iowa State University Email gbousaab@iastate.edu
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Fellow Profiles
Radhameris (Radha) Gomez Gabriel Transportation Engineering/Human Factors
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? I plan on working in the international road safety sector. I am very passionate about traffic safety, particularly as it relates to understanding the impact of driver behavior in road deaths. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career?
USA University of Massachusetts Amherst Email radhameris.gomez@ fulbrightmail.org
One of the main goals in my career is to help facilitate the incorporation of technical procedures in the context of the safety culture in which these procedures are taking place instead of enforcing rules and measures which may not be suitable for the country or region at hand. More specifically, as a native of the Dominican Republic, one of my personal goals is to improve road deaths in the Dominican Republic, particularly for Vulnerable Road Users (VRU’s). Helping the Dominican Republic establish a robust driver’s education program is a milestone I hope to achieve in my career. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? The IRF is a wonderful network that I hope to tap into throughout my professional career. Whether it is in the area of advocacy or training, I hope to not only promote the work the IRF does, but to incorporate various IRF training and advocacy components into my future projects. Knowing that there is an extended family of professionals who understand the challenges and implications of road safety at the international level, gives me peace of mind in knowing that these practice-ready resources are within reach. I would also like to remain involved in the future development of young road safety professionals by providing my time and knowledge to prepare upcoming professionals in the increasingly interdisciplinary world of road safety. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? I hope to gain further insight into who the various key players of road safety are at the international level and how their collaborative work shapes the way countries address road safety. I also hope to gain a better understanding of the IRF’s role in international road safety and the continuous support it provides Executive Leadership Program Alumni. Lastly, the opportunity to learn from my peers is sure to be the highlight for me. Being able to work with people from different backgrounds is always an opportunity to learn, teach and enhance my understanding of my role in improving the world around me.
Sponsored by:
Class of 2017 13
Eleftheria (Ria) Kontou Civil Engineering
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? My interests lie in the fields of transportation energy and emerging vehicle technologies. My PhD research focuses on managing operations of plug-in electric vehicles to achieve higher energy efficiency and reduce the environmental impacts of the passenger transportation sector. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career? I look forward to working on projects that will enable sustainable transportation systems through applied research, partnerships with government and industry stakeholders, and community outreach. I hope that throughout my career I will be able to contribute to advancing the existing knowledge on sustainable transportation technologies and solve real-world problems at the transportation/energy nexus. After my graduation from University of Florida’s graduate program in transportation systems, I envision myself as a researcher at a National Laboratory. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? The welfare of our communities heavily relies on transportation systems and effective land use planning. Improving mobility is crucial for achieving societal equity and economic development. By serving as a member and alumna of the IRF community I hope to promote IRF’s contributions towards safer mobility, efficient asset management, intelligent transportation systems, and effective policy making. I also plan to work with my university to increase the visibility of the IRF’s Executive Leadership Program and encourage other talented graduate students to apply. Last but not least, I am looking forward to my participation in future IRF events and sharing my research findings with IRF members What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? As an IRF Fellow, I am looking forward to interacting with academicians and professionals, who are members of the IRF network, and learning from their experiences. By meeting the rest of the IRF Fellows, as well as prospective leaders of the transportation industry, I hope to exchange ideas on the future of the transportation sector. In addition, I welcome the opportunity to be exposed to IRF’s mission and their work around the world. The Executive Leadership Program will help me figure out the role that I can play as a researcher to promote the IRF and contribute to its legacy.
Sponsored by:
GREECE University of Florida Email ekontou@ufl.edu
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Fellow Profiles
Stephanus (Stefan) Louw Geotechnical Engineering
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? Recyclable technologies in pavement engineering, gravel roads in local counties and sustainable infrastructure development in developing countries. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career?
SOUTH AFRICA University of California, Davis Email sjlouw@ucdavis.edu
My passion lies in developing and improving methods to construct pavements using sustainable methods, and to give people access throughout their communities to improve their livelihoods. The goals I wish to achieve are: to contribute positively to the infrastructure of developing countries; develop and incorporate sustainable methods for constructing and maintaining roadways; to educate engineers and industry members on the latest methods to rehabilitate existing pavements; and to contribute to the current knowledge of pavement engineering. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? I hope to build a positive relationship with the International Road Federation to build a partnership where I can influence new and young engineers from around the world to pursue pavement engineering and to understand the value that pavements have on the world. I hope that having an international foundation will open doors to reach members of different backgrounds and different experiences, where I can both contribute and learn how to solve problems that societies experience around the world. In collaboration with the IRF, I will strive to reach safe and cost-effective solutions in underdeveloped and limited resourced countries by interacting with local communities and governments to invest in sustainable technologies for pavements. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? I hope to gain a network which has a common focus of developing safe and sustainable pavement technologies around the world. A strong network is key to sharing knowledge in recent development, new technologies, and unique experiences which are critical to solve global challenges in pavements. I also hope that being part of this group would open up opportunities that would allow me to pursue my passions of getting hands on experience in assisting developing countries where my experiences and passions may be useful. The network of people would be the reward for my participation; however, to be a part of a group with the same focus is invaluable and can be fruitful to the field and to society.
Sponsored by:
Class of 2017 15
Yuki Ohmichi Structure
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? I work for Metropolitan Expressway company in Japan. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career? I want to be a specialist who can provide appropriate treatment for damaged structures. I work for Metropolitan Expressway Company, which is responsible for the construction and management of the expressway network in the Greater Tokyo area where 95% of the network is taken up by structures such as viaducts and tunnels and many of these are getting older and have a lot of damage. Therefore, we need a specialist who can provide appropriate treatment for damaged structures. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? In order to improve or advance road development around the world, we need to cooperate with each other. To do that, first of all, we need to understand the current status around the world. However, it is still difficult to obtain the latest and useful information, even though most information can be obtained relatively easily through the internet. In other words, in order to obtain useful information, we need to get information from people directly. However, international information cannot be obtained so easily, if you do not have international contacts. I think IRF Fellows are invaluable resources with useful information to address global challenges. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? This is my first experience in such an international program. For one thing, I will meet a variety of people and agencies as part of this program, and I think it will be a very valuable experience for me, because I can learn what people around the world are thinking and doing for road development. Secondly, I think leadership development is very important for my career goals, because in order to accomplish something we need help from others, and in order to accomplish those goals, leadership skills are essential. I hope to widen my viewpoint further through this program.
Sponsored by:
JAPAN University of Utah Email y.ohmichi145@shutoko. jp
Fellow Profiles
Ibukunoluwa (Ibukun) Oyelade Transportation Planning and Management
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? With my Bachelors in Civil Engineering, I plan to work in the private sector of Transportation Engineering all around the world, with focus on highway/traffic. This puts me in good shape to achieve the goals I set for myself. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career?
Email ibukun.oyelade@yahoo. com
How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? First, I will make sure that I am up to date with the Global Training Curriculum of the IRF. With that, I will be able to train transportation professionals around the world especially in my country. I will also take part in workshops, seminars or activities of the IRF on road safety at various places around the world. It is important to be involved in improving the IRF network, and to do this I will continue to tell young and upcoming professionals of my great experiences in this program to reinforce the growth of IRF. Finally, I will make sure to include the IRF’s research needs into my own future research work, either as a private consultant or an academic researcher. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? Through the Leadership program I hope to meet leaders and policy makers in the field of transportation/road industry, to learn from their experiences, and inputs — all to help shape me for the task ahead. It is equally very vital to develop relationships with Fellows and colleagues, so I look forward to meeting with other IRF Fellows and develop a very good and long professional relationship with them. Finally, I hope to learn more about the mission, vision, and goals of the IRF and to gain a clearer understanding of how I can advance these goals.
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Texas Southern University
My career goal is to become a successful transportation engineer, contributing greatly to the profession through my active participation with multi-disciplinary teams around the world by providing a safe and reliable road transportation system for society. Also, I hope to become a licensed transportation engineer so that I can utilize the benefits that come with this license to start a company of my own with the ultimate aim of impacting the community. Finally, I intend to go back to my home country to apply the wealth of experience to create safer roadways.
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Class of 2017 17
Matthew (Matt) Reed Construction Management
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? I am currently working in Washington State for Perteet, an infrastructure consulting firm, and hope to grow my career working with a variety of professionals to complete projects that enhance the quality of life for our communities through roadway construction. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career? I have already worked in equipment maintenance, materials testing, business accounting, equipment procurement, data management, and project management from a contractor’s perspective. Recently I have been working with Perteet on construction administration for infrastructure projects. In the short term, I hope to gain a holistic view of road construction and rehabilitation projects, and in the long term, I hope to use that experience to work as part of a firm that cooperates with all partners to provide lasting infrastructure value to end users. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? I would like to develop business relationships with other IRF fellows, so that I will be able to learn and share with the greater IRF community throughout my career. The road industry is one with a plethora of different techniques and materials chosen based on the geology around the location, the climate, the local suppliers, the testing available, the government, and many other actors that come together to provide roads to the wider public. Each member of the IRF community will have experience to share that will better improve the work that we do, and I will help facilitate and act on those experiences at home and abroad. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? I look forward to gaining additional insight about my industry from experienced mentors and colleagues throughout the world. I hope to develop relationships with my mentors and colleagues that will enable us to achieve our goals of inexpensive, accessible, comfortable, quick, reliable, safe, and sustainable transportation. I expect that the colleagues that I will meet will be among those that possess the aptitude and attitude necessary to be some of the foremost leaders in our industry. The IRF Executive Leadership Program has an impressive cadre of graduates, and I will be honored to help carry on that legacy into the future.
Sponsored by:
USA University of Washington Email matt.reed@reed.net
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Fellow Profiles
Berenice Salaices Civil Engineering
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? I would like to continue working in the area of transportation. After completing my graduate studies I hope to get involved in other areas of transportation to continue expanding my knowledge in this field. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career?
MEXICO The University of Texas at El Paso Email bsalaicesgomez@ miners.utep.edu
I would like to become a subject matter expert in areas such as: transportation, pavement design, urban development, master planning, and continue working in research. As a young woman in engineering I would like to become a leader and mentor to help other female engineers develop and grow into well-rounded young civil engineers. I will be a dedicated professional and I will try my best to make a positive impact for other young engineers. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? I would like to contribute to the organization and to its mission of promoting the development of better, safer and more sustainable roads. I would like to learn from the organization and use this knowledge to influence the infrastructure and transportation network of highways in my home country, Mexico. I would also like to help promote the importance of research in my country in order to improve infrastructure management practices. In general, I believe there is plenty of room for improvement in the field of transportation and I am hoping to be able to contribute to the innovation and development of new techniques and processes. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? Being able to participate in the IRF Executive Leadership Program will help me connect with other professionals, learn and share experiences about other research projects and their impact on transportation. The interaction with individuals from all over the world and knowing about their research will help me better understand the importance of transportation in our society. I am also excited about the opportunity of attending the Transportation Research Board (TRB) for a third consecutive year. Being able to attend TRB has been a great experience that encourages me to continue my studies and inspires me to become an exemplary professional in the future.
Sponsored by:
Class of 2017 19
Moataz Soliman Civil Engineering
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? Transportation and Geotechnical Engineering. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career? My main goal is to complete my academic career successfully and to be a professor of civil engineering whose research has a considerable impact and influence not only in his field of study but also helpful to the whole community. Also, I want to enhance my knowledge in both geotechnical and transportation engineering as I believe that connecting these two areas together can come out with great results and significant impact in civil engineering research. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? I aim to apply the knowledge gained from the IRF in my academic career to enhance research in the road development. This knowledge gained from the IRF should be transferred to other colleagues and students so that it can help in raising awareness for future transportation leaders of the importance of road development around the world. Also, within my academic career, I may help in the future in training and giving seminars to the next generation of IRF award recipients or at least sponsoring them as I believe that progress in road development research will never stop and its importance will keep rising with the increase in population around the world. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? I strongly believe in the mission of the IRF Executive Leadership Program, which is investing in the next generation of transport leaders. Also, I believe that enhancing my knowledge and background in the field of transportation engineering and road development will have a great impact on my academic career. Being a PhD student with a geotechnical engineering background could help me understand the road development problem from a different point of view. I am trying to make use of the relationship between geotechnical engineering and transportation engineering in helping road development around the world in the near future.
Sponsored by:
Essam Radwan &
EGYPT University of Central Florida Email moatazhs@knights.ucf. edu
20
Fellow Profiles
Pedro Zavagna Transportation Engineering
In what sector do you hope to/plan on working? I hope to work for a department of transportation, studying and developing better pavements in the United States, and in the future, in my home country Brazil. What are the main goals you wish to accomplish in your career?
BRAZIL University of Texas at Tyler Email pzavagna@patriots. uttyler.edu
The main goals I wish to accomplish in my career are: to make a difference, by studying and developing something unique, that will cause a huge impact in everyone’s lives; by returning back all the support that has been given to me throughout the years; and by working and developing a safe and accessible road network in order to connect as many people as possible, starting in the United States and later on in my home country Brazil. How will you work with the IRF throughout your career to improve/advance road development around the world? As I advance in my career, I will be in contact with other IRF members and road experts to exchange knowledge, experiences, research, and new ideas related to road systems development. I will also inspire students to follow in my steps, advising them to join the IRF Fellowship Program, and in this way, develop future transportation engineers. It is also important to actively contribute with input when attending congresses around the world. I strongly believe that the International Road Federation is a unique source of knowledge and experience, which will develop the necessary skills within each person to improve road development around the world. What do you hope to gain from your participation in the IRF Road Scholar Program? My main goal by participating in the IRF Executive Leadership Program is to gain experience, expand my knowledge by learning different engineering methods used internationally, and expand my network by making new friends and meeting other engineers. The International Road Federation Program is the perfect opportunity for me to meet with transportation engineering professionals, and be filled with excitement about improving transportation infrastructure around the world. I would also enjoy the opportunity to attend the Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting to learn about new research being developed in different countries in order to be updated on the latest methods in road development.
Sponsored by:
GLOBAL
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Better Roads. Better World. www.IRF.global
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