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 10,400+ members and 37 member organizations now include scientists, engineers, technologists, and organizations interested in improving the environment, mitigating natural hazards, and economically constructing engineered facilities. Our organization enhances 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 recognizes outstanding contributions to the geotechnical engineering profession through its award programs, such as the Karl Terzaghi, Ralph B. Peck, and Wallace Hayward Baker honors.

Locally, the G-I's Pittsburgh Chapter hosts numerous events throughout the course of the year. The Chapter strives to provide a venue for speakers with topics of interest to members on both a global and local scale. Traditionally, the program year is a mix of world-renowned speakers, such as the Terzaghi and Seed Lecturers, and engineers with ties to local/regional projects of note. However, the speakers and topics describe only a portion of the G-I experience. G-I events are also a forum for geotechnical professionals to discuss technical and policy issues; they are networking events where peers make contacts and learn more about the region’s geo-industry; and they are opportunities for younger professionals to interact with some of the more prominent local figures in geotechnical engineering in an informal environment.

Planned events for the remainder of this program year include:

• January 2007 Dr. James K. Mitchell presenting the 2006 Seed Lecture (confirmed)
• March 2007 Dr. Ray Krizek presenting the 2006 Terzaghi Lecture (planned)
• April 2007 The Annual Geo-Institute/AEG/PGS Student Night (confirmed)
• May 2007 One-Day Technical Seminar (planned)

For more information regarding the Pittsburgh Chapter of the G-I, please contact Jim James (2006-07 Chairperson) at jjames@gfnet.com, or Don Splitstone (2006-07 Vice Chairperson) at Donald.Splitstone@hdrinc.com.