Klaiber recognized for bridge work Bridges both old and new are a source of constant interest for one ISU professor.

Wayne Klaiber, distinguished professor of civil and construction engineering, was recently elected a fellow of the American Society of Civil Engineers for his extensive contributions to education and research in the bridge structures field.

Terry Wipf, professor of civil and construction engineering, said he is working with Klaiber on several projects.

“He’s been dedicated to the organization for many years,” he said. “He’s deserving.”

Overall, Klaiber said he is humble about the distinction.

“I’m honored,” he said. “A lot of people had to do with this.”

Klaiber earned his bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees from Purdue University. He currently teaches structural analysis, reinforced concrete design and prestressed concrete design.

After teaching at Iowa State for 32 years, Klaiber said he has spent the majority of those years advising graduate students, many of whom remain in the bridge research field.

“I get a lot of enjoyment seeing [my students’] successes,” he said.

He said his research has benefited Iowa’s bridges. Klaiber said Iowa has the fifth highest number of bridges in the country, each of which are aging.

As part of the Iowa Department of Transportation sector of the National Cooperative Highway Research Program, Klaiber and his team are studying how to save bridges and money. The program is nationally organized and has international ties in Europe.

“We’re trying to get more life out of existing bridges,” he said.

As part of the project, Klaiber said he is leading research efforts in reinforcing deteriorating wood and concrete bridges with composite materials.

Klaiber has written more than 100 technical papers and reports and five textbook chapters during his bridge research.

He said bridges have become a family affair with his son-in-law, a structural engineer.

“When we start talking shop, we can empty a room pretty quick,” he said.

Klaiber said he hopes his interest and research will bridge another generation with his grandson, Matt. Although he is only one year old, Klaiber said he will come to like bridges too.

“We’ll warp him,” he said.