Welcome to the 2nd Global Buried Asset Management Congress (GBAMC) Student Chapter Review page!
The GBAMC brought together students, academics, and industry leaders to engage in meaningful discussions about the challenges and innovations in underground asset management. The UCA/NASST Student Chapter members participated in the congress, where they had the opportunity to introduce themselves, ask insightful questions, and interact with professionals across the industry.
From active participation during sessions to networking with experts, the students gained exposure to real-world practices and emerging trends in asset management.
Here, we proudly share their reflections and experiences. Join us in revisiting this impactful 3-day event and celebrating their engagement and enthusiasm for learning!
Student Reflections and Experiences
1. Carly Wilkerson
- Background: Undergraduate in Construction Engineering (Expected Graduation: May 2026)
- Key Highlights: Insights into the panel discussion on energy decarbonization, networking experiences, and the importance of collaborative problem-solving.
I attended the Global Buried Asset Management Congress because I wanted to better understand asset management, particularly the benefits of asset management and the growth of the use of asset management over time. I was optimistic that the attendees and guest speakers would help me to understand the importance of asset management, but was more than impressed with the many ideas, issues, and passions that were discussed concerning the topic. The speakers addressed both foundational principles and emerging trends in asset management, with a particular focus on the unique challenges and opportunities in underground infrastructure. Attending the conference opened my eyes to much more than just asset management but also the importance of discussing issues and relating to others to help improve the way assets are managed and found.The presentations were the most important part of attending the asset management congress. The were multiple different presenters as well as multiple different styles of presentations. One style that I appreciated the most was the panel discussions. The debate styled discussion encouraged those in the audience to participate and be engaged. This was beneficial as the ideas that were being discussed continued to be explored and developed as many people had their opinions and experiences, they were willing to share. The debate and panel discussion I found to be the most interesting was the Energy Decarbonization Solutions moderated by John North with panelists Michael Peters, Cory Kreutzer, Savanna Speciale and Greg Zoeller. This panel discussed innovative approaches to energy decarbonization, focusing on cleaner energy, efficiency, and carbon emission reduction. Topics include repurposing pipelines for cost-effective infrastructure adaptation, and the role of asset management in modernizing systems like pipelines and grids. The panel also touched on Health and Risk Monitoring Systems for Buried Asset Management to ensure infrastructure safety and environmental protection. This discussion took place on the first day I attended and had a lot of audience engagement as focusing on cleaner energy is becoming more important.
While I attended the conference, I was also given the chance to volunteer and help check guests in. This was another great opportunity to network and learn from industry leaders. It was eye opening to see how far guests had come from to share their ideas and experiences. My shift was on Saturday, so I had a chance to hear certain guests speak the day before. When I checked them in the following day, I made sure to ask questions if I had any about their presentations and get to them better on a more personal level. This was a great opportunity as I could compare where people were from and the challenges they faced pertaining to asset management and how their careers have brought them to this field. Each guest I met was more than willing to discuss their experiences. One guest in particular informed me that his passion took many years to find and build up. He gave me the advice to continue following and exploring ideas that interest me and to continue to be inspired by others. He also said it was important to listen to others’ ideas because they could always help you better understand how to face your own challenges, which felt like a great summary of the conference and how each guest was listening to each other and helping each other with their challenges by sharing their own experiences. Overall, I will remember the impactful ideas that were presented and will be inspired to find my own passions and challenges to solve, just as the guests speakers were.
2. Drew Beveridge
- Background: Undergraduate in Civil Engineering (Expected Graduation: May 2026)
- Key Highlights: Human aspects of asset management, overcoming challenges in communication, and learning to value details in professional work.
The UCA/NASST chapter at Purdue University has offered many incredible extracurricular experiences, and the Global Buried Asset Management conference was no exception. The professors and executives have been exceptionally kind to organize our attendance at this conference. I was excited at the prospect of hearing professionals’ thoughts on issues relevant to today’s underground world, since having a broad understanding of numerous perspectives will make me a stronger asset to the world of Civil Engineering.
The technical presentations were very engaging and interesting, but what especially stood out to me were many of the human aspects of asset management. Hearing of how residents are often nervous to let inspectors into their homes, or how managers don’t always see the value in asset management programs, or how small cybersecurity overlooks can pose serious threats to asset information, instilled in me the importance of developing asset management programs that are robust and can adapt to different people and ideas.
As an intern in asset management over the summer of 2024, I gathered and organized most of my work the way my bosses told me. I didn’t understand how to think critically about why the company organized things a certain way, but this conference opened my eyes. I can now see the value in details I used to glance over or disregard. I believe that a number of the human issues facing asset management stem from this difficulty seeing the value of details and connections, so I believe that I can contribute to the world of asset management by helping others understand its importance too.
- Background: Undergraduate in Construction Engineering (Expected Graduation: May 2026)
- Key Highlights: Key takeaways from John Norton’s presentation on utility research partnerships and the importance of teamwork in professional settings.
I attended the Global Buried Asset Management Congress to gain a deeper understanding of asset management, particularly its benefits and how its use has evolved over time. I hoped the speakers and attendees would shed light on the importance of asset management, but I was thoroughly impressed by the wide range of ideas, challenges, and enthusiasm shared on the subject. The speakers covered both core principles and emerging trends in asset management, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities related to underground infrastructure. The conference not only expanded my understanding of asset management but also highlighted the value of open discussions and collaboration in improving the management and discovery of assets.
The speaker that I found to be the most impactful to my own learning was John Norton. John had a high amount of energy and was very engaging. He is the Director of Energy, Research, and Innovation at GLWA, a combined water and wastewater utility serving Southeast Michigan. GLWA provides more than 40% of the state’s water and 30% of its wastewater treatment. Norton leads the organization’s research initiatives aimed at improving and extending both linear and process infrastructure. His projects cover areas such as source water monitoring, water quality in distribution systems, and energy extraction from biosolids. John gave his presentation on the challenges and benefits of working together on research in the utility sector. I enjoyed how he discussed how partnering with utilities, universities, and businesses can lead to new ideas, better services, and solutions to important issues like water quality, efficiency, and the strength of infrastructure.
The main take-away from the conference that I feel will impact on me the most was seeing each and every group interact and share their ideas. Working with others to accomplish goals and meet deadlines will always be a part of my future career and teamwork was a key highlight that multiple speakers touched on. The use of teamwork and coming together to share important ideas and discoveries was an important aspect of the conference as well. Another takeaway that I will remember is respecting others and listening to their ideas. This was seen during the conference as the audience was actively engaged in each speaker’s presentation. Not only were speakers presenting their ideas and being open about what they have seen or done, the audience felt encouraged to relate their ideas and you could tell they were actively listening because of what they shared.
4. Andi Flittner
- Background: Undergraduate in Construction Engineering (Expected Graduation: May 2026)
- Key Highlights: Inspiration from Michell Beason’s presentation on advanced inspection technologies and career-building advice.
I went to the Global Buried Asset Management Congress in order to learn more about asset management, namely its advantages and the ways in which its use has changed over time. I was genuinely amazed by the diverse range of perspectives, difficulties, and excitement expressed on the topic, even if I had hoped that the speakers and attendance would clarify the significance of asset management. The presenters addressed both fundamental ideas and new developments in asset management, with an emphasis on the particular difficulties and possibilities associated with subterranean infrastructure. My knowledge of asset management has grown as a result of the conference, which also made clear how important candid conversations and teamwork are to better asset discovery and management.
Although each guest speaker had ideas and different topics to discuss with the audience, there was one main person that I felt was the most impactful for myself. This speaker was Michell Beason. Michell Beason received a BS in Civil Engineering from Purdue University, and is a registered Professional Engineer in California, Nevada,
Oregon, and Arizona; with over 30 years of water and wastewater asset management and construction experience.
She has worked as a Project Engineer Capitol Engineering (Indianapolis) and Black &Veatch (Kansas City), as an Asset Management Engineer with the East Bay Municipal Utility District, she owned her own Engineering & Construction firm for 5 years, and for the last 14 years has specialized in multi-sensor inspections and trenchless rehabilitation of sewer, storm, and water assets. In her presentation, she discussed four methods by which system owners can use new technology to better manage their systems. These included High Definition (HD) CCTV video to record pipeline defects, using multi-sensor inspection robots (using HDCCTV, LiDAR, sonar) to determine remaining useful life and when rehabilitation is necessary, using drones in sewer smoke testing, and how GIS applications are simplifying data collection in the field from handheld devices.
Michell’s experience really showed throughout her presentation and it made me feel excited to start my own career and build my own confidence through experiences. She felt even more relatable as her career journey started with a civil engineering degree from Purdue University. I will forever be inspired by her passion for asset management and how she used her experiences in the field to think of ways to better develop a process for managing and assessing pipelines for companies to use and improve their quality of work. Overall the Global Buried Asset Management Congress showed me how important it is to continue to use your passions to improve old systems and help others by sharing these ideas. It is important to work with others and respect their ideas, which was easily seen throughout the conference.
5. Sihan Zhou
- Background: Ph.D. Student in Construction Engineering (Expected Graduation: May 2027)
- Key Highlights: The integration of advanced pipeline inspection tools into academic research and real-world applications.
Attending GBAMC 2024 provided a unique opportunity to deepen my understanding of cutting-edge asset management practices and explore innovative solutions for infrastructure challenges, particularly in the water and wastewater sectors. As a researcher passionate about urban systems and sustainable infrastructure, the conference’s focus on resilience, regulatory compliance, and financial sustainability aligned perfectly with my academic and professional goals – advancing the practice of pipeline condition assessments (PCA) in water and wastewater systems.
The insights gained from the presentation “Utilizing New Technologies to Make Better Asset Management Decisions” by Michell Beason provided invaluable knowledge on advanced pipeline inspection technologies, which will greatly influence my academic endeavors. Learning about High Definition (HD) CCTV for detailed defect recording, multi-sensor inspection robots incorporating LiDAR and sonar for evaluating remaining useful life (RUL), and drones for sewer smoke testing has expanded my understanding of how utilizing the tools you have around you to transform into pipeline condition assessments. This approach strongly aligns with my advisor, Prof. Iseley’s perspective, focusing on developing innovative PCA technologies by leveraging available tools and techniques to change industry practices to be the most cost-effective.
This knowledge will directly enhance my academic coursework, especially in urban informatics and smart cities, by integrating advanced pipeline inspection technologies into case studies and project simulations. I plan to mentor peers by sharing these technological advancements, emphasizing their applications in sustainable urban infrastructure management. During internships, I will advocate for adopting tools like multi-sensor robots and GIS-based data collection to improve operational efficiency and decision-making. In my future career, these insights will guide me in designing innovative asset management strategies that leverage these advanced technologies to ensure the long-term reliability and sustainability of critical pipeline systems in urban environments.
6. Venkata Jaydheer Naidu Chapala (Jay)
- Background: Graduate Student in Construction Management Technology (Expected Graduation: Dec 2024)
- Key Highlights: Transition from participant to organizer, leadership growth, and bridging academic learning with real-world challenges.
The Global Buried Asset Management Congress (GBAMC) is more than just a conference, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the underground construction and asset management industry at its finest. Not only does it showcase outstanding research presentations, but it also provides invaluable time to grasp information from real-time scenarios and industry challenges.
Being part of the organizing team for GBAMC 2024, hosted in Indianapolis, has been an extraordinary experience. From attending presentations by top industry experts to networking with leading professionals, GBAMC offers a unique platform to bridge academic knowledge with practical insights.
I am incredibly grateful to Professor Tom Iseley and Liao Wei for trusting me with this opportunity. Through my involvement, I’ve gained invaluable organizational leadership and project management skills. Setting up the conference, hosting attendees, and interacting closely with industry professionals and professors were responsibilities that shaped my professional growth.
Starting as an attendee at GBAMC, I never imagined I would one day be part of its organizing team. This transition taught me the value of seeing the event from both perspectives, learning as a participant and contributing to its success as an organizer. These experiences have been instrumental in developing my expertise and building connections that will last a lifetime.
GBAMC is not just about knowledge; it’s about creating impactful relationships and gaining firsthand exposure to the real-world challenges in water, underground, and asset management. As someone who thrives on challenges, I find it exhilarating to immerse myself in these dynamic environments.
As I prepare to graduate from Purdue, I am eager to take the insights, skills, and relationships gained from GBAMC into my professional career, ready to tackle the complexities of the construction and asset management world head-on. Even after graduating from Purdue, I would gladly extend my support to BAMI and GBAMC because every time, it’s new and as fresh as the morning dew on a spring day, brimming with possibilities and inspiration.
7. Bhavesh Kumar Sharma
- Background: Graduate Student in Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Key Highlights: Strategic asset management insights, technological advancements like optical fiber sensors, and professional networking opportunities.
Why I Attended the GBAMC 2024
As a graduate student specializing in civil and environmental engineering, I attended the Global Buried Asset Management Congress (GBAMC) 2024 to gain insights into the latest advancements in buried asset management. The event provided a unique opportunity to engage with industry experts, explore cutting-edge technologies, and network with professionals dedicated to addressing challenges in infrastructure sustainability.
Key Learnings from GBAMC 2024
Presentations
The conference featured several impactful presentations from industry leaders and researchers. A standout session by Dr. Tom Iseley, a pioneer in buried asset management, explored the development of strategic asset management plans (AMPs) to address aging infrastructure. His emphasis on proactive management and tools like GIS mapping was particularly enlightening. Another notable presentation demonstrated the integration of optical fiber sensors into pipe resins to monitor flow rate and pressure head, offering real-time data for condition assessments. This session highlighted innovations from companies specializing in pipeline technology and asset monitoring solutions.
Engagement and Networking Opportunities
Engaging with industry professionals was a significant highlight of the event. Conversations with engineers implementing optical fiber technologies for buried pipelines provided valuable insights into their practical applications. Networking sessions also facilitated discussions about potential career paths, collaborative research opportunities, and trends in water and wastewater asset management. These interactions underscored the importance of building professional relationships to advance both academic and industry pursuits.
Volunteer Opportunities
The conference offered unique volunteer opportunities to support event operations and engage directly with panelists and organizers. Participating in these activities allowed me to gain behind-the-scenes insights into the event’s planning and execution, further enhancing my understanding of the buried asset management sector.
Applications to Academic and Career Goals
Attending GBAMC 2024 has provided valuable takeaways for my academic and professional journey:
- Academic Coursework: The knowledge of advanced pipeline condition assessment methods, such as the use of optical fiber sensors, will inform future research projects and classroom discussions. Additionally, I will be taking an Asset Management course next semester under the guidance of Dr. Tom Iseley to further develop my understanding of this field.
- Expanded Perspectives: Starting next semester, I will also be taking Construction Management courses to gain a broader perspective on infrastructure projects. These courses will help me analyze challenges from different angles, thereby enriching my approach to asset management.
- Mentorship: Insights from the event will be shared with peers and younger students to promote awareness of asset management practices and career opportunities.
- Internship and Career Pathways: Networking with industry leaders has expanded my professional connections and provided clarity on how to align my career goals with emerging trends in buried asset management.
The integration of case studies, technological innovations, and expert insights from GBAMC 2024 will significantly enhance my contributions to the field of civil and environmental engineering.
8.Sayali Chavan
- Background: Graduate Student in Construction Engineering (Expected Graduation: Dec 2025)
- Key Highlights: Volunteer experience, exposure to innovative technologies, and meaningful interactions with industry leaders.
Attending the 2nd Global Buried Asset Management Congress was a defining moment in my journey as a graduate student. It was an incredible opportunity to step out of the classroom and into a vibrant space where academia met industry, offering me a fresh perspective on the critical role of buried asset management in modern infrastructure. The event was an inspiring mix of cutting-edge innovation, meaningful discussions, and invaluable networking, all of which reinforced the real-world impact of the concepts I study daily.
One of the most impactful sessions was Michell Beason’s presentation on “Utilizing New Technologies to Make Better Asset Management Decisions.” This session introduced revolutionary tools such as HD CCTV, multi-sensor robots, drones, and GIS, all of which are transforming how infrastructure is inspected and managed. Equally compelling was “Strategic Water Audits: Driving Sustainability and Efficiency in Utility Management” by Adam Hershberger and Chad Reynolds, which demonstrated how data-driven strategies can identify inefficiencies and foster long-term sustainability. The panel discussion on “Energy Decarbonization Solutions” was another highlight, presenting innovative ideas on transitioning to cleaner energy and modernizing infrastructure through cross-industry collaboration.
Volunteering at the congress added a unique dimension to my experience, particularly through my role in technical support. Through this, I gained valuable experience in quickly troubleshooting issues, managing time effectively, and ensuring smooth event execution through communication and attention to detail. Additionally, engaging in discussions with industry leaders provided firsthand insights into groundbreaking projects and emerging technologies, whether it was exploring advancements in polymer technologies through discussion and polymer samples or delving into AI-driven threat detection and blockchain solutions for secure data management, the experience was both educational and inspiring.
This experience offered me practical knowledge, professional connections, and a deeper appreciation for the importance of asset management. The opportunity to discuss emerging technologies and strategies with professionals broadened my perspective and enriched my academic journey. It has inspired me to think beyond textbooks and equipped me with the tools and ideas that will shape my future in this exciting and essential field.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Professor Iseley, Professor Abraham, and Wie for giving me the opportunity to volunteer and be a part of this meaningful event. Their support and encouragement enabled me to gain invaluable hands-on experience, interact with industry leaders, and contribute to the success of BAMI. I am truly grateful for this opportunity, which has significantly enhanced my academic and professional development.
