ASCE has honored J. David Rogers, Ph.D., HGW, P.E., P.G., CEG, C.H.G., F.ASCE, with the 2023 Civil Engineering History and Heritage Award for his 30 years as a recognized expert on the history of dam failures, his significant publications on civil engineering history topics, and his many ASCE conference presentations.
Most of Rogers’ career has been dedicated to serving his nation and his profession. After earning his Ph.D. and starting his own consulting firm, Rogers/Pacific Corporation, he joined the U.S. Navy Reserve and was commissioned an Ensign. Most of his Navy career was as an intelligence officer, reaching the rank of Commander. He joined the Missouri University of Science and Technology as professor and Karl F. Hasselmann Chair in Geological Engineering in 2001.
Rogers’ interest in history prompted a stream of papers, articles, and presentations on numerous civil engineering history topics. He produced over 50 publications and over 80 presentations on civil engineering, many at ASCE Conventions and World EWRI Congresses. In addition to all these, his contributions on a long list of volunteer committees and advisory boards, as well as many awards and honors, attest to his commitment to the profession of civil engineering. He was awarded the prestigious Schuster Medal by the Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists and the Canadian Geotechnical Society in 2022.
During his 10 years on the History and Heritage Committee, Rogers was the committee’s secretary and was a major contributor to the Hoover Dam 75th Anniversary Symposium, the Panama Canal 100th Anniversary Symposium, and the Transcontinental Railroad 150th Anniversary Symposium.
The Civil Engineering History and Heritage Award is presented to those persons who, through writing, research, or other efforts, have made outstanding contributions to a better knowldge of, or appreciation for, the history and heritage of civil engineering.
