Autonomous technology is changing the infrastructure game.
From eVTOLs to autonomous vehicles to smart infrastructure systems, autonomy has demonstrated the capacity to radically transform society as we know it. And civil engineers have taken notice.
So, it’s no surprise that “autonomous and smart tech frontiers” is one of seven key themes for ASCE2027: The Infrastructure and Engineering Experience.
ASCE2027 will bring together subject-matter experts from all civil engineering disciplines to share ideas and shape the future of the built environment. The first-of-its-kind event will take place March 1-5, 2027, in Philadelphia.
Registration for ASCE2027 opens later this summer. For now, here’s a “Further Reading” list so you can learn more about how civil engineers are embracing autonomy.
Are eVTOLs ready for takeoff? Engineers say infrastructure is the key
Electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, known as eVTOLs, offer an environmentally friendly option for air travel with significantly less noise pollution than traditional aircraft. Their place in the market is evolving, and many use cases are already being tested. But there are still infrastructure hurdles that must be overcome.
Autonomous vehicles are here. But where are they going?
Autonomous vehicles have gotten a surge in publicity in recent years with the rise of autonomous taxis and autonomous trucks. AVs aren’t necessarily a new concept, but complete autonomy – and the infrastructure to support it – is still a work in progress.
Automated aerial firefighting drones to provide faster responses
The pieces for automated wildfire suppression are coming together with new technology. Drone aircraft, both purpose-built and retrofitted, promise to bring resources on-site sooner and safer than their human-piloted counterparts, buying time for human crews to arrive and contain fires.
Smart sewer technologies are on the rise – new study helps utilities adapt
Advances in smart sewer systems have been enabled by innovations in sensor technologies, cloud computing, and machine learning. A new study will help utilities identify opportunities for optimizing their systems and determining whether investment in sensors, communications, and real-time controls would be a better approach.
Digital twins show great promise in civil engineering. But what’s next?
For civil engineers across disciplines, digital twins have the potential to unlock more efficient and effective construction and maintenance operations. They also hold enormous potential as part of smart cities, and municipalities are already exploring the use of large-scale models.
Feed Your Brain
ASCE2027: The Infrastructure and Engineering Experience is a first-of-its-kind event bringing together subject-matter experts from all across the infrastructure space, March 1-5, 2027, in Philadelphia. So, yes, we know you’re excited about the Philly cheesesteaks, but ASCE2027 also is the perfect place to satisfy your appetite for learning.
Technical deep dives. Infrastructure expertise. Come feast!
Learn more about ASCE2027: The Infrastructure and Engineering Experience.
