Inspiring Future Engineers: ECI’s Shane McFadden Speaks at Iowa State
On February 24, Shane McFadden, CEO of ECI, spoke with engineering students at Iowa State, delivering his presentation, Groundbreaking Solutions: Innovation in Dam/Hydro, Geotech, Tunneling, and Pipeline Repair. He introduced students to the world of specialty construction, highlighting the industry's unique challenges and opportunities.
Bringing Specialty Construction to the Next Generation
During the presentation, Shane highlighted the specialized nature of ECI’s work, showcasing how the company tackles complex infrastructure projects that go beyond traditional construction. He discussed the five core service areas that define ECI’s expertise:
Geotechnical Construction – Strengthening foundations, stabilizing soil, and improving ground conditions for major infrastructure projects.
Pipeline Rehabilitation – Extending the life of critical water, sewer, and industrial pipelines using trenchless methods like the BulletLiner System®.
Dam & Hydro Construction – Restoring and constructing dams, spillways, and hydroelectric infrastructure to support water resource management.
Underground Construction – Tunneling, shafts, and below-ground infrastructure that require precision engineering and execution.
Specialty Construction – High-skill, complex projects that demand innovative solutions, from marine operations to large-scale structural projects.
Connecting Students with Real-World Experience
Beyond discussing ECI’s technical expertise, Shane also shared insights on entrepreneurship in the construction industry, highlighting the importance of hands-on learning, innovation, and industry experience. He shared insights into the growing demand for skilled construction engineers and how students can prepare for careers in specialty construction through internships and industry partnerships.
Want to gain real-world experience? Learn more about our internship program here: ECI Internship Program
College professors: Interested in partnering with ECI to provide students with career-ready experience? Learn more here: ECI Education Partners
At ECI, we’re committed to not only building infrastructure but also investing in the future of engineering and construction. Events like these help bridge the gap between education and industry, inspiring the next generation of construction professionals.
About ECI
ECI is a premier engineering and construction firm specializing in geotechnical construction, water resources infrastructure, hydro/marine construction, specialty construction, and tunnels & shafts. For 25 years, we’ve delivered high-quality, sustainable solutions tailored to our clients’ unique needs. Learn more about our Leadership Team and our Mission, Vision & Values in the About section.