When construction abruptly stopped at the former Pfizer headquarters redevelopment in Midtown Manhattan after workers discovered buckled steel columns and floor sagging, public attention quickly turned to one question: What happened?

But before investigators can determine why a structural failure occurred, engineers must answer a different question: How do they stabilize a damaged building and safely determine what went wrong?

In this special edition of the ENR Critical Path Podcast, host Bryan Gottlieb speaks with Christopher Raebel, vice president of engineering and research at the American Institute of Steel Construction, about the engineering response to structural emergencies.

Rather than speculate about the ongoing investigation, Raebel explains how engineers assess structural damage, stabilize compromised buildings, investigate potential causes and determine whether damaged structures can be repaired.

Whether you're an engineer, contractor or simply curious about how complex structural emergencies are managed, this conversation offers an inside look at the process that begins long before investigators reach their conclusions.

Polysiloxane coatings are redefining long-term protection for water storage and treatment assets. In this episode, learn how these advanced systems outperform traditional epoxy and polyurethane coatings with superior UV resistance, durability and reduced maintenance needs. Explore how the smooth, non-porous surfaces of polysiloxanes help minimize biofilm and algae growth, supporting cleaner assets and improved water quality. You’ll also gain insight into lifecycle cost savings and why utilities and operators are turning to polysiloxanes as a smarter, more sustainable solution.

Speakers:
Steve Roetter, Market Segment Manager for Water Infrastructure
With more than 40 years of experience in the water and wastewater industry, Steven helps customers solve their most critical asset protection challenges as a Market Segment Manager for Water Infrastructure for Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine.

Charles Kucherka, Principle, Treatment, Transmissions and Utilities – Central Division
As a Principal at Freese and Nichols, Charles is the engineering and environmental services firm’s senior technical professional in water storage tank design, rehabilitation and coatings.

Sponsored by: Sherwin Williams Protective & Marine

Alquist 3D Chariman and Founder Zach Mannheimer talks to ENR Senior Editor Jeff Yoders about housing, the journey of 3D printing concrete homes and commercial products and how his company made additive manufacturerd Wal-Mart Supercenters.

In a multimedia podcast, the CEO of GISI Consulting Group discusses how the collective utilizes a roster of A-list firms under one platform, with 10,000+ employees advising on megaprojects across the globe.

What does it take to build a lasting career in construction? Three senior women leaders from J.E. Dunn, Austin Industries, and Findorff share hard-won perspectives on resilience, navigating burnout, and earning a seat at the table.

Sponsored by: CMiC

The author and engineer chat with Aileen Cho, who accompanied McNichol on a cross-country infrastructure tour in 2015, about chronicling the messy and mesmerizing history of the New York City megaproject.

The CEO of Embrace Partners and CEO of the Minority Business Development Institute talks with Deputy Editor Aileen Cho about helping small contractors achieve business acumen and bonding capacity.