Paving the Way for Future Engineers

Recognizing Dr. Steven Sachs’ commitment to teaching and to civil engineering, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Pittsburgh Section has named him the 2024 Professor of the Year. The award highlights remarkable teachers whose mentorship, research, publications, and engagement advance the field, and it will be presented at the ASCE’s Engineers Week Award Banquet on February 22, 2025.

An assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Pittsburgh’s Swanson School of Engineering, Sachs focuses his research on concrete and pavement. As part of Pitt’s Pavement Engineering program, he collaborates with researchers from around the world to help develop stronger roads and infrastructure and to find the most effective ways to repair them.

Beyond his research, collaboration, and publications, Sachs serves as the department’s Director of Undergraduate Studies, helping students find their right pathways and progress successfully toward graduation.

“Steven plays a vital role in guiding the undergraduate program,” said Radisav Vidic, Nickolas A. DeCecco Professor and Chair of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Pitt. “This recognition from the ASCE reflects his commitment to our students. Steven serves as a valuable mentor to so many young engineers and is a tremendous asset to the school.”

Said Sachs, who earned his B.S. and PhD degrees from Pitt, “Having been an undergraduate and a graduate student here in the Swanson School, I am honored to have this unique opportunity to help prepare and support students as they pursue their passion for engineering.”