Sustainability In Concrete: Decision-Makers, Dismissal Points, And A Framework For Implementation,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Sustainability In Concrete: Decision-Makers, Dismissal Points, And A Framework For Implementation, Max Dennison
Construction Management
Concrete is essential to modern infrastructure, but is also one of the largest sources of embodied carbon, with cement production alone responsible for a significant share of global CO₂ emissions. Although low-carbon and otherwise “sustainable” concrete technologies are growing, their use in everyday projects remains limited. This research investigates why sustainable concrete options are most often dismissed during the project lifecycle, who drives these decisions, and what conditions are needed to enable broader adoption. Using a combination of literature review and semi-structured interviews with professionals in contracting, life-cycle assessment, sustainability consulting, and materials production, the study maps decision points from …
Building Services Engineering January/February 2026,
2026
Technological University Dublin
Building Services Engineering January/February 2026
Building Services Engineering
No abstract provided.
Scheduling As An Organizational Capability,
2026
Florida Institute of Technology
Scheduling As An Organizational Capability, Felix Delmonte
Mechanical and Civil Engineering Faculty Publications
This study synthesizes evidence on schedule governance as an organizational capability integrating Lean practices, BIM, Digital Twin, and AI to convert scheduling into continuous, data driven decision making that links front line observations to executive risk appetite and funding choices, showing how 4D/5D BIM, clash detection, automated material takeoff, and IoT enabled twins shorten planning horizons, reduce design errors by up to 80%, improve timeline adherence by 20%–30%, and, when AI is applied, further cut delays by about 18% and procurement costs by approximately $2.5 million; a four layer Integrated Lean–Digital Framework is proposed to align strategic intent, collaborative digital …
Failure Of Infrastructure Systems: A Multilevel Network Analysis Of Decision-Making And Influential Behavioral Constructs,
2026
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Failure Of Infrastructure Systems: A Multilevel Network Analysis Of Decision-Making And Influential Behavioral Constructs, Tamima Elbashbishy, Radwa Eissa, Islam H. El-Adaway, Jeffrey S. Russell
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works
High-profile failures of infrastructure systems are often attributed to design flaws. However, these incidents can also stem from a broader set of interconnected decisions made by stakeholders involved in the planning, management, and operation of these systems. While ethical guidelines and professional codes are designed to prevent such failures, cognitive biases may undermine adherence. Previous research efforts, primarily focused on ethical violations using case studies, have overlooked how behavioral ethics constructs and professional conduct could drive these breaches. This paper addresses this knowledge gap by (1) conducting an analysis of three system failure cases at the micro, meso, and macro …
Residential Boundary Fence Installation In Oceano, Ca,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Residential Boundary Fence Installation In Oceano, Ca, Ulysses Beas
Construction Management
This Senior Project focuses on the planning and execution of a residential boundary wooden fence for an elderly homeowner located in Oceano, California, alongside a partial front yard renovation that was an appreciation gift from her grandson. Prior to construction, the front yard was divided by a small ornamental iron fence, which provided very little privacy. This fence installation was designed to improve privacy, security and overall safety while working alongside hired concrete laborers. Not only was the goal to improve safety but also the aesthetics of the home. This Project includes a project scope statement, site measurements, fence layout, …
Slo Botanical Garden Lean-To Carport,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Slo Botanical Garden Lean-To Carport, Saul Gracian, Sergio Gonzalez
Construction Management
This paper documents the planning, design, funding, and construction of a lean-to carport for the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, completed as a student-led Construction Management senior project by Saul Gracian and Sergio Gonzalez. The purpose of the project was to provide a functional storage structure for garden equipment while applying construction management principles in a real-world, nonprofit setting. The project methodology included site evaluation, collaborative design development, cost estimating, funding acquisition, regulatory review, and hands-on construction. Design decisions were informed by site constraints, county code requirements, budget limitations, and stakeholder input, resulting in a final 10’ x 12’ structure …
Risk Management Strategies Used By Project Leaders In Construction Projects On The East Coast,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Risk Management Strategies Used By Project Leaders In Construction Projects On The East Coast, Dylan David Decuffa
Construction Management
Construction projects are often defined by their visible outcomes, structures completed on time, within budget, and built to the required standards. Yet beneath these outcomes lies a less visible force that quietly shapes whether success is achieved or compromised. Uncertainty is present in every phase of construction, influencing decisions, performance, and ultimately the trajectory of the project. The ability to recognize and respond to this uncertainty may separate projects that proceed with stability from those that experience delays, escalating costs, and diminished quality. Project managers, superintendents, project engineers, and other related fields play a central role in navigating this uncertainty …
An Analysis Of Injury And Fatality Trends In The U.S. Construction Industry,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
An Analysis Of Injury And Fatality Trends In The U.S. Construction Industry, Ryan Dutt
Construction Management
Construction work is one of the most dangerous industries in the United States, with different trades and work types showing various risk levels for injuries and fatalities. This paper’s objective is to identify the safety trends in construction over the past 10 to 20 years and understand the trades, accident types, and construction sectors with the highest safety risks. All of the data was obtained from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and the National Safety Council (NSC) databases, broken down by trade, accident …
Thousand Hills Pet Resort Ada Compliant Access Ramp And Connecting Deck: Preconstruction Activities,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Thousand Hills Pet Resort Ada Compliant Access Ramp And Connecting Deck: Preconstruction Activities, Sonya Nahama Wijoyo
Construction Management
This paper presents the design and preconstruction of an ADA-compliant access ramp and connecting deck system for two mobile homes located at Thousand Hills Pet Resort. The primary objective was to enhance accessibility and safety for residents by providing code-compliant, durable, and functional access to the mobile homes on site. This project is interdisciplinary between construction management and architectural engineering. The project began with a site evaluation to assess existing conditions. Field measurements and site observation guided planning decisions and helped identify potential challenges. Following the site evaluation, the project proceeded into the design phase, where the ramp and deck …
Assessing The Current Experiences With Electrically- Powered Construction Vehicles Within The Heavy Civil Industry,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Assessing The Current Experiences With Electrically- Powered Construction Vehicles Within The Heavy Civil Industry, Matthew Joseph Beauchesne
Construction Management
Heavy machinery, such as cranes, trucks, dozers, and more, are a necessity to build dams, bridges, highways, and all the other types of projects within the Heavy Civil Construction industry. Traditionally, such machinery is powered using fossil fuels - gas or diesel - which in turn affects both the efficiency and emissions of these vehicles. This study focuses on the prospects of using alternative energy - namely electricity - to power such vehicles, and these electric variants differ from their fossil fuel using versions. The methodology of this paper involved seeking out construction contractors within the Heavy Civil sector who …
Case Study: The Benefits Implementing Azure 3d Printed Homes Onto Dignitymoves Project In San Luis Obispo,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Case Study: The Benefits Implementing Azure 3d Printed Homes Onto Dignitymoves Project In San Luis Obispo, Lucy E. Heimer
Construction Management
California is actively addressing the challenges of housing shortages and climate change. These challenges have shifted the construction industry, steering the market into finding more sustainable means of construction. This case study evaluates the sustainable benefits of modular construction fabricated by Azure Homes. The focused project is a DignityMoves project in San Luis Obispo where modular units are factory built in El Segundo, CA and set on site. DignityMoves is a nonprofit organization that aims to provide housing for unhoused individuals throughout California. Thus far, DignityMoves has opted to use prefabricated modular units as their primary means of construction on …
Impact Of Regional Heat Differences On Construction Productivity: A Comparative Study Of California’S Central Valley And Central Coast,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Impact Of Regional Heat Differences On Construction Productivity: A Comparative Study Of California’S Central Valley And Central Coast, Berthalidia Acosta
Construction Management
Construction productivity is influenced by many environmental conditions, particularly extremely high temperatures. In regions where high temperatures are normal, workers experience increased fatigue, require additional safety controls, and can even lead to scheduling conflicts. This senior project evaluates how heat differences in two parts of California affect productivity by comparing two projects managed by the same general contractor: one located in California’s Central Valley (Sacramento) and one located on the Central Coast (San Luis Obispo). Throughout the study, there will be two data sources seen: weekly labor recap reports focusing on a particular task (Concrete) and semi-structured interviews with industry …
Slo Garden Guy: Applying Construction Management Principles To A Residential Woodworking Business,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Slo Garden Guy: Applying Construction Management Principles To A Residential Woodworking Business, Carson Smith
Construction Management
This senior project applies construction management principles to evaluate the launch, performance, and future direction of SLO Garden Guy, a small-scale residential woodworking venture operating in San Luis Obispo. The project implemented structured estimating, standardized workflows, financial tracking, and risk analysis to assess real market demand, operational efficiency, and long-term scalability. Over the course of operation, the business completed numerous customer orders and demonstrated consistent seasonal demand patterns, particularly during peak gardening months. Analysis of production capacity, cost structure, and regulatory considerations provided insight into both the strengths and limitations of a niche, product-based service model. While the operation proved …
Analysis Of Construction Trends On California’S Central Coast,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Analysis Of Construction Trends On California’S Central Coast, Erik G. Asplund
Construction Management
The California Central Coast experiences sustained housing demand and infrastructure pressure, yet it lacks the visible concentration of construction firms found in larger markets. This study examines why construction activity in the region appears limited despite a strong demand. Using a qualitative, interview-based approach, four construction companies who operate across Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties were interviewed to identify recurring themes related to labor, environmental regulation, housing feasibility, technology adoption, and future outlooks. The study concludes that structural constraints rather than lack of opportunity limit the scalability of construction on the Central Coast.
From Concept To Construction: A Carport For The Slo Botanical Garden,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
From Concept To Construction: A Carport For The Slo Botanical Garden, Trent A. Denholm
Construction Management
This paper documents the design, budgeting, procurement and construction of a timber framed carport with architectural shingle roofing at the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden (SLOBG). The Botanical Garden, a nonprofit organization dependent on community support and volunteer labor, identified the need for covered storage and a dedicated charging station for its golf cart, a vehicle central to daily operations across the property. Without permanent shelter, the cart was exposed to the elements year-round, which contributed to equipment wear and reduced operational efficiency. Working simultaneously as project manager and lead builder, Trent coordinated stakeholder relationships, developed a project budget, secured …
Developing And Commercializing Large Language Model Applications For Automated Construction Submittal Review Requirements,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Developing And Commercializing Large Language Model Applications For Automated Construction Submittal Review Requirements, Ryan Cracolice
Construction Management
The construction industry faces persistent challenges in document management, quality assurance, and project coordination. Despite advances in project management software, critical workflows such as submittal review, drawing interpretation, and specification compliance remain predominantly manual processes that consume significant project management resources and introduce risk through human error. Point Construction is an entrepreneurial venture that applies artificial intelligence and advanced imaging technologies to automate and enhance construction document intelligence. The platform integrates directly with industry-standard project management systems to provide AI-driven submittal review, automated drawing analysis, intelligent specification cross-referencing, and natural language querying of project documents. This paper details the conception, …
Factors Impacting Wildland-Urban Interface (Wui) Fires: A Systematic Literature Review,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Factors Impacting Wildland-Urban Interface (Wui) Fires: A Systematic Literature Review, Albert Jimenez
Construction Management
Fires in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) pose a significant danger to communities. The WUI refers to the space where development meets vegetation. Significant research has been conducted into wildfire and WUI vulnerability across the world to help combat vulnerability. These include the identification of factors of vulnerability to create indices that quantify vulnerability, and address scope gaps and inconsistencies within literature. However, existing research seems to be fragmented in finding the WUI vulnerability factors and often it focuses on wildfires and not WUI fires. The objective of this systematic literature review is to synthesize wildfire vulnerability factors identified in the …
Drainage And Pedestrian Access Improvements At City Farms Slo,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Drainage And Pedestrian Access Improvements At City Farms Slo, Benjamin Marc Kocher, Jacob Anthony Booker
Construction Management
This senior project focused on planning, designing, and constructing drainage and pedestrian access improvements at City Farms SLO, a nonprofit in San Luis Obispo that promotes sustainable agriculture and youth education. Prior to construction, the site experienced significant stormwater pooling and erosion in a central area of the farm, making daily operations and visitor access difficult during wet weather. The team excavated an 80-foot trench drain with appropriate slopes, installed a 15-foot corrugated HDPE culvert with proper bedding and backfill, built a seven-foot pedestrian bridge over the trench, and created a 17-foot gravel pathway connecting the bridge to an existing …
A Comparison Of Waste Management Practices In Residential And Commercial Construction,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
A Comparison Of Waste Management Practices In Residential And Commercial Construction, Jayce S. Ford
Construction Management
Construction Waste continues to be a major issue within the construction industry, affecting project costs, schedules, and environmental performance. A large portion of construction and demolition materials/ waste ends up in landfills. This is due to poor planning, limited worker training, and inefficient jobsite practices. This research-based senior project examines waste management efficiency on construction jobsites, while comparing and contrasting residential and commercial construction practices. The study evaluates how contractors manage material separation, recycling, reuse, and disposal of common construction waste. These include wood, drywall, concrete, metals, and packaging. A mixed-methods approach is used combining a review of academic and …
Skip The Grid 25-26: A Safety-Driven Solar Installation Project In The Navajo And Hopi Nations,
2026
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Skip The Grid 25-26: A Safety-Driven Solar Installation Project In The Navajo And Hopi Nations, James R. Wall
Construction Management
Skip the Grid is an interdisciplinary service-learning project that provides sustainable energy solutions to families with school-aged children living in the Navajo and Hopi Nations. In March 2026, a team of 23 students from five academic disciplines at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) partnered with Heart of America, SOLV Energy, and NextPower to complete the fifth year of the program. The project's purpose was to improve quality of life and support educational success by providing reliable access to electricity, lighting, and refrigeration in underserved communities. Participants were organized into five installation teams consisting of Cal Poly students, faculty, industry …
