Christopher Shearer

Dr. Christopher Shearer is an Associate Professor and William V. Coyle Professor in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. He holds a B.S. from Ohio Northern University and M.S. and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology. Prior to his academic role, he worked as a structural engineer and conducted research at DOE National Laboratories. His research focuses on sustainable infrastructure materials, including cement-based and alternative materials' chemical, physical, and mechanical properties, with an emphasis on durability and environmental impact. He also explores pedagogical approaches in engineering education, particularly active and service learning.

Dr. Shearer serves on ACI committees, including ACI 232: 'Fly Ash in Concrete,' and was president of the ACI Dakota Chapter. He advises the Concrete Canoe Team and ASCE at South Dakota Mines. His work bridges academia and industry through consulting on materials-related issues. Notable contributions include advancing fly ash utilization, improving concrete durability, and enhancing engineering education through initiatives like service learning. His research has been published in over 30 peer-reviewed articles, addressing topics ranging from material characterization to sustainable construction practices.

He is an ASCE ExCEEd Fellow, recognizing excellence in engineering education. His teaching spans materials and structural engineering courses such as Mechanics of Materials and Concrete Theory & Design. Outside academia, he engages in hiking, music, and travel, reflecting a balance between professional and personal passions.