What is the Geo-Institute?

The Geo-Institute (G-I) is a specialty organization focused on the geo–industry. Created by the American Society of Civil Engineers in October 1996, our 10,900+ members and 48 Organizational members include scientists, engineers, technologists, and organizations interested in improving the environment, mitigating natural hazards, and economically constructing engineered facilities.

Our organization pools the talents and perspectives of its members to enhance a geo-professional's career development through technology transfer via specialty conferences, journals and practice-oriented publications; educational programs; networking and coalition-building; and leadership on emerging issues. The G-I's numerous award programs, such as the Karl Terzaghi, Ralph B. Peck, and Wallace Hayward Baker offer members numerous opportunities to be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the geotechnical engineering profession.

The G-I's numerous networking events, technical committees,and state-of-the art annual conferences and exhibitions also provide members some of the best forums in which to tackle today's toughest geotechnical challenges. Geo-Strata, the official bi-monthly magazine of the Geo-Institute, is enjoyed by members at no additional charge. It features articles written by and for engineering professionals covering timely topics such as the use of new technologies, construction techniques, business management, unique projects, and industry news. The magazine is recognized by industry experts as providing leadership on educational, professional and public policy issues.

The G-I also serves as the United States of American member society of the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE).

The Geo-Institute Strategic Plan

G-I 2007-08 Objectives

G-I Polices and Procedures Manual

The Geo-Institute Governance

The Geo-Institute is led by a Board of Governors, consisting of seven to nine members. At least five governors are elected for three-year terms; the Board of Governors may appoint up to three additional Governors for two-year terms; one Governor will be appointed by the ASCE Board of Direction every other year for a two-year term. Serving on the 2008 Board of Governors are:

Arthur G. Hoffmann, Jr., P.E., M.ASCE, President
Jean-Louis Briaud, Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE, Vice-President
Edward Kavazanjian, Jr., Ph.D., P.E., L.S., M.ASCE, Treasurer
John E. Anderson, Ph.D., P.E., G.E., M.ASCE, Past President
Craig H. Benson, Ph.D., P.E., M.ASCE
Philip G. King, P.E., F.ASCE
Larry P. Jedele, P.E., M.ASCE
Jay A. Padgett, P.E., F.ASCE
Robert D. Holtz*, Ph.D., P.E., Hon.M.ASCE, International Secretary
Carol W. Bowers*, P.G., Secretary

* Non-voting member

The Geo-Institute Staff

Carol W. Bowers, P.G., CAE, IOM , Director, (703) 295-6352 
Linda Bayer, Manager, (703) 295-6162 
Lauren E. Tighe, Board and Meetings Specialist, (703) 295-6313
Elizabeth Cuscino, Administrative Specialist, (703) 295-6017  

Code of Ethics

1. Using their knowledge and skill for the enhancement of human welfare;
2. Being honest and impartial and serving with fidelity the public, their employers and clients;
3. Striving to increase the competence and prestige of their profession; and
4. Supporting the professional and technical societies of their disciplines.

1. Hold paramount the safety, health and welfare of the public in the performance of their professional duties.
2. Perform services only in areas of their competence.
3. Issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner.
4. Act in professional matters for each employer or client as faithful agents or trustees, and shall avoid conflicts of interest.
5. Build their professional reputation on the merit of their services and shall not compete unfairly with others.
6. Act in such a manner as to uphold and enhance the honor, integrity, and dignity of their profession.
7. Continue their professional development throughout their careers, and shall provide opportunities for the professional development of those professionals in the geo-industry under their supervision.

Geo-Institute Membership Benefits

• Services targeted to geo-professionals
• Technology transfer via specialty conferences, journals, and practice-oriented publications
• Relevant professional development programs
• Networking and coalition-building opportunities
• Leadership on emerging issues

• Geo-Strata magazine
  
• International Journal of Geomechanics
  
• Journal of Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental Engineering
  
• Manuals of Practice and other technical publications
  
• Geotechnical Special Publications
  
• Speakers Bureau
  
• Terzaghi, Peck and Seed Lectures
  
• Annual specialty conferences
  
• Awards program to recognize geo-industry excellence
  
• High-quality continuing education courses
  
• Increased interaction with ASCE Section Geotechnical Groups and other local
  geo-professional groups.