James Ernzen

James Ernzen is an Associate Professor at the Del E. Webb School of Construction within the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment at Arizona State University (ASU). With over 22 years of experience in construction management, project engineering, and civil engineering education, he has been a pivotal figure in advancing ASU’s construction programs since joining the faculty in 1996.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, University of Texas at Austin
• M.S. and B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame

Research and Teaching Focus:Ernzen specializes in project delivery methods, concrete materials, and construction operations. He has developed nationally recognized curricula, including in concrete industry management, and leads the Project Delivery Methods Taskforce sponsored by the Alliance for Construction Excellence at ASU. His teaching spans courses like Structural Design and Honors Directed Study, emphasizing hands-on learning and industry engagement.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions:

• Lifetime Membership Award, Arizona Chapter of the American Concrete Institute
• Recognition from the Design Build Institute of America
• Recognition from the American Institute of Steel Constructors

Grants and Research Activities:His research includes projects such as the Arizona Registrar of Contractors Claims Analysis (2008–2009), Superstition Freeway Design-Build Project Study (2000–2008), and Procurement Process Documents for the City of Phoenix Lake Pleasant (2000–2001). These efforts have secured funding and enhanced the school’s national reputation.

Labs and Teams:Ernzen previously served as deputy director of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Concrete Laboratory and currently co-advises the ASU American Concrete Institute student chapter and the Fulton Schools student military veterans organization. His leadership roles, including director of the Del E. Webb School of Construction (2005–2009), underscore his commitment to academic and industry collaboration.