ASCE has honored W. Allen Marr, Ph.D., P.E., D.GE, F.ASCE, NAE, with the 2019 H. Bolton Seed Medal for his continuous and cumulative distinguished contributions to our understanding of the behavior and interaction of geotechnical materials and to the advancement of research, practice, teaching, and professional service in geotechnical engineering.
Marr is the founder and chief executive officer of the Geocomp Corporation and GeoTesting Express Inc. In about 36 years, his leadership skills along with his efforts in adapting new technologies to underground challenges have led to the growth of the firm to a staff of 100 people and an annual turnover of over $20 million. Today, GeoTesting is one of the largest geotechnical laboratories in the United States and the Geocomp is known nationally and internationally for its high-quality automated laboratory testing equipment, strong capabilities in testing of geomaterials, monitoring of performance of constructed facilities, and analysis and design of complex underground facilities.
Marr is nationally known for his significant technical contributions in the field of geotechnical engineering, his expertise in design and construction of large earthworks (e.g., dams, levees), and for active risk management using real-time monitoring systems. His contribution in the geotechnical field is not limited to the consulting services be has provided. He has continuously identified the emerging trends in research and technology and applied those developments to produce safer solutions to a variety of infrastructure problems. He has also made significant contributions in advanced numerical analysis, laboratory testing to measure engineering properties, monitoring performance during construction to minimize collateral damage, and application of risk management principles to underground engineering.
The H. Bolton Seed Medal recognizes outstanding contributions to teaching, research, and/or practice in geotechnical engineering.
