Robert D. Wolff, Ph.D., SES (Ret.), Dist.M.ASCE, former executive director of SAME and current chairman of the board of Project S.E.R.V.E., has been honored with inclusion by ASCE in its 2026 class of distinguished members. He was selected for eminent leadership in the civil engineering profession and ASCE, establishing professional association partnerships to advance the interests of the civil engineering profession, strengthening bonds between the Society and government leaders, and creating and leading initiatives to develop aspiring engineers.
ASCE will honor Wolff and the 2026 distinguished members at the 2026 OPAL Gala, Thursday, Oct. 15 in Reston, Virginia
Wolff’s career can be described by way of three distinct and stellar phases: military, civil service, and the nonprofit sector. His accomplishments in each sphere have been exemplary. His ability to lead has elevated the standards of organizations dedicated to the advancement of engineers, military, and civilian alike. Throughout his 60-year career, he has been recognized as an extraordinary engineer and leader.
Wolff’s military service included combat engineering in Germany and commanding an engineering construction company in Vietnam that included work on a military airfield and replacement of a civilian bridge.
Wolff’s commitment to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was showcased in supporting senior leadership in strategic direction for the Corps, developing planning and regulatory policy for the Civil Works program, strengthening project management, and fostering an effective environmental ethic. As chief of engineering for USACE’s Baltimore District, one of its largest and most complex, he established new benchmarks of excellence and delivered projects of enduring quality. His performance reflected not only his technical competence but also his ability to lead large teams toward engineering solutions of national significance. His appointment as the most senior civilian engineer for the U.S. Air Force Civil Engineers was a remarkable recognition of his credentials, and his position at SAME testifies to the same high esteem in which he is held.
His initiatives at SAME have given rise to highly regarded programs such as STEM-focused summer camps that attract outstanding students, joint engineer training conferences that draw top professionals and the engineering and construction industry, and professional development and mentoring programs.
He served on the ASCE Committee on Leadership and Management as secretary and vice chair for annual selection of ASCE government engineer awards and nominated several recipients of the prestigious OPAL Award. In 2024 and 2025, he established endowments with ASCE and West Point to support participation in Society events by early-career and civil engineering students. His current dedication to mentoring young professionals, supporting Project S.E.R.V.E., and his lasting contributions to West Point, including support for the Jewish Chapel, reveal the depth of his character and service to others.
Nominations for the 2027 class are due Dec. 15. Email [email protected] for more information.
