Emad Najmi Sarooghi, a Ph.D. student in the Haskell and Irene Lemon Division of Construction Science, and Dr. Tamera McCuen, a Professor of Construction Science, recently presented their research on smart cities’ strategies for contractors at the 58th Annual International Associated Schools of Construction Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.
Emad’s paper aims to identify the construction-related strategies in smart cities that could assist contractors in disrupting traditional construction processes using new technologies and processes. Emad conducted a thematic analysis was conducted to categorize the construction-related strategies used by twenty-four smart cities in the United States and around the globe. Six different themes were identified, including 1) Modern Infrastructure, 2) Livable Climate, 3) Efficient Mobility, 4) Education/Training, 5) Inclusive Economy, and 6) Affordable Housing. While several smart cities have implemented some construction-related action plans, others have no strategies related to the construction industry.
The results of Emad and Dr. McCuen’s research could be helpful for further research to identify the future direction of construction in smart cities and define the knowledge and requirements needed for contractors to implement the action plans in smart cities.
Robert L. Wesley, a pioneering architect and beloved mentor, has died at age 88. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Wesley joined Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in 1964 and became the firm's first Black partner in 1984. Throughout his career, he contributed to significant architectural projects while maintaining a strong commitment to civic engagement and professional mentorship.
The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture is proud to celebrate a series of recent accomplishments by Dr. Jim Collard, Professor of Practice in the Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture, and Design, whose work continues to shape conversations around Indigenous economic development nationally and internationally.
University of Oklahoma Gibbs College of Architecture Dean Hans E. [PA1.1]Butzer returned to one of his most significant works on December 15, joining survivors and past and present board members for the groundbreaking of a $15.8 million expansion of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.