
ENGINEERING MECHANICS INSTITUTE
About US
EMI is the premiere interdisciplinary organization of engineering mechanics that promotes research and the application of scientific and mathematical principles to address existing and emerging engineering and societal issues.

Our HISTORY
Created on October 1, 2007, the Engineering Mechanics Institute (EMI) replaces the former ASCE Engineering Mechanics Division.
Our Mission
To serve the engineering community through the development and application of engineering mechanics by anticipating and adapting to new challenges that will face tomorrow's engineers;
To create an environment that facilitates professional growth to ensure that these future challenges will be met;
To establish a presence at the forefront of new thrusts of mechanics by promoting the most innovative developments in the field, regardless of the discipline of the ultimate user;
To provide a home not only for those involved in the traditional disciplines, but also for those involved with emerging areas of mechanics; and
To promote the interdependence of engineering mechanics and other disciplines by providing an interdisciplinary forum for researchers, practicing engineers, industry representatives, citizen groups, public officials and others.
Our OBJECTIVES
The objective of this Institute shall be to serve the needs of the engineering community by advancing the knowledge and improving the application of engineering mechanics and related sciences, and by contributing across a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary areas to address the needs of the 21st century.
Our VISION
To be a premier organization representing engineering mechanics by effectively serving the needs of the worldwide engineering community and promoting both research and application of scientific and mathematical principles to address a broad spectrum of existing and emerging engineering and societal problems.
Meet the Board

EMI Co-Chair
Laura Rubio, AM.ASCE

SEI Co-Chair
Alvaro Martinez, P.E., AM.ASCE

G-I Co-Chair
Roberto Rodriguez, P.E., M.ASCE

EWRI Co-Chair
Ernesto Fernandez, P.E., M.ASCE

EMI Co-Chair
Grecia Rodriguez, AM.ASCE

UESI Chair
Amy Romeo-Garcia, AM.ASCE

T&DI Chair
Jessica Garcia, P.E., M.ASCE

SEI Co-Chair
Alexandra Ocampo, P.E., M.ASCE

G-I Co-Chair
Colin Henderson, P.E., M.ASCE
EWRI Co-Chair
Melanie Dorta, AM.ASCE

COPRI Chair
Vanessa Benzecry, Ph.D., P.E

CI Co-Chair
Ki-Ana Moody, A.M.ASCE

CI Co-Chair
Jose Rafael Castro, P.E., M.ASCE

AEI Chair
Kenneth Waller, AM.ASCE
Kenneth Waller Jr., a native of Hartford, CT, is a skilled civil engineer and construction management professional whose career began in 2014. He is proud to be the first and only STEM degree holder within his immediate and extended family, encompassing Millennials, Generation X, and Generation Alpha. Kenneth's academic journey includes an Associate's Degree in Engineering Science from CT State Community College, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with a Minor in Engineering Management from Old Dominion University.
After launching his career in New England, Kenneth relocated to South Florida in 2022, where he now serves as Sr. Project Manager and Construction Manager within the Engineering & Construction Bureau at the South Florida Water Management District. In addition to his role at the district, Kenneth is the 2024 AEI Chair for the Miami-Dade Branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), actively contributing to the advancement of industry standards and supporting professional development in his community.
Dedicated to continuous professional growth, Kenneth is preparing to sit for his Professional Engineer (P.E.) license and is on track to earn his Certified Construction Manager (CCM) certification in early 2025, coinciding with his Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Kenneth founded KEWCOM & Associates, LLC, an engineering consulting firm focused on delivering premier infrastructure improvement solutions. KEWCOM specializes in Project and Construction Management, Inspection, Constructability Review, Cost Estimating, Scheduling, Document Controls, and Quality Assurance, providing client-centered services for both public and private sector projects.
Guided by the values of Keen Engineering with Construction Operations & Management, KEWCOM emphasizes precision, collaboration, and streamlined project execution. This diverse expertise and adaptability position KEWCOM as a trusted leader in infrastructure projects across multiple regions.
Kenneth’s dedication to his profession, family, and community continues to inspire others to pursue excellence in STEM fields. His achievements, leadership, and commitment to lifelong learning reflect his passion for making a positive impact, both personally and professionally, serving as a powerful example for future generations.
