The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) will honor Amit Varma, Karl H. Kettelhut Professor in Civil Engineering and Director of Bowen Laboratory, and CE alumnus Ron Klemencic, PE, SE (BSCE '85) with the Special Achievement Award at the 2020 NASCC: The Steel Conference (April 22-24 in Atlanta).

The Special Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated notable achievements in structural steel design, construction, research, or education. It honors those who have made a positive and substantial impact on the structural steel design and construction industry.

Amit Varma is recognized for his groundbreaking work in developing and promoting SpeedCore, a concrete-filled composite plate shear wall system that is revolutionizing the speed at which steel-framed buildings are constructed. His research and lab tests on tall shear walls significantly contributed to the successful implementation of the system. Varma received AISC’s Special Achievement Award in 2017 and Milek Fellowship Award in 2003.

Ron Klemencic is recognized for his groundbreaking work in developing and promoting SpeedCore, a concrete-filled composite plate shear wall system that is revolutionizing the speed at which steel-framed buildings are constructed. He led the development of the system, working with AISC, MKA engineers, steel fabricators, and university researchers.