Michael J. Drerup has more than 20 years of structural engineering and building technology experience, with an emphasis on the performance, maintenance, repair, and retrofit of existing buildings and structures. He has planned and directed field and laboratory studies to evaluate the performance and durability of a variety of building systems, components, and materials, including structural systems, facades, and flooring.
Mr. Drerup often works closely with specialists in other disciplines to assemble and manage teams tailored for larger and more complex assignments. He has also investigated numerous damage claims resulting from a variety of natural and man-made causes, including earthquakes, weather events, explosions, fire, impact, construction activities, and defective design or construction. Mr. Drerup has served as an expert witness in numerous cases, and has testified at deposition, trial, and mediation.
He has served on ASCE's Forensic Engineering Division for more than 15 years, including a term as Division Chair. During that time, he has led the development of continuing education seminars for engineers and architects, chaired ASCE's Fifth Congress on Forensic Engineering in Washington, DC, and served on the steering committees for several other conferences and symposia. Mr. Drerup has also represented ASCE internationally, including sponsored trips to forensic engineering conferences in India and Guatemala, and collaboration with the Institution of Forensic Engineers in the United Kingdom.
He has served as a reviewer for ASCE's Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities for more than 10 years, and was guest editor for a special topic issue on non-destructive evaluation of existing buildings and infrastructure. Mr. Drerup regularly publishes and presents on a range of topics including technical issues, professional practice, and architectural and engineering history.