Insider Tips to Advance Pavement Design With Outstanding Results – Ep 119

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 viewed 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 client’s 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 ...