Adam Kaplan

Dr. Adam Kaplan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Construction Engineering at Kennesaw State University, where he also serves as the ABET coordinator for the department. He earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Colorado Denver, specializing in geotechnical earthquake engineering. His doctoral research focused on the seismic stability of soil-concrete interfaces in composite dams, utilizing advanced three-dimensional parametric nonlinear finite element analyses. His work contributed valuable insights into the seismic behavior of structures such as the Folsom Dam.

With over two decades of academic, research, and industry experience, Dr. Kaplan has led numerous impactful projects. His collaborations with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and other organizations have produced practical solutions, such as guidelines for drilled shaft excavation inspections and recommendations for full-depth reclamation pavement performance. Notably, his research with the Colorado Department of Transportation influenced the design and construction of roadside barriers and explored the mechanisms of airborne sand particles, addressing windshield damage concerns in Colorado winters.

Dr. Kaplan's teaching expertise spans undergraduate and graduate courses in geotechnical engineering, foundation design, and computational geotechnics. As an ABET Program Evaluator since 2012, he has contributed extensively to accreditation efforts, ensuring high academic standards in engineering education. He has also spearheaded innovative instructional technologies, including integrating virtual and in-person laboratory learning.

In addition to his academic endeavors, Dr. Kaplan is dedicated to humanitarian projects, such as the "Rubble House" initiative—a sustainable housing solution for Haitian families affected by the 2010 earthquake. This project, involving full-scale construction and testing on the KSU-Marietta campus, showcased his commitment to blending education, research, and community service.

Dr. Kaplan’s ongoing research interests include finite element analysis, geotechnical modeling, nondestructive testing methods, and sustainable construction practices. His work has been recognized in peer-reviewed publications and professional conferences, and he continues to mentor students, guiding them toward impactful careers in civil and construction engineering.

For more information about his projects, please visit Dr. Kaplan's Research Initiatives.