U.S. Civil Engineer, International Cooperation and Soviet Union

Abstract

The major conclusion of this paper is that ASCE should embark on a major program of cooperation with the engineering profession of the Soviet Union. The Soviet civil engineers exhibit high technical competence and are well versed in theory. However, they have not been exposed to the basic principles of profit motivation and concern for the financial performance of a project. Ineffective use of materials and labor has led to poor quality on many projects. Accordingly, an agreement has been reached with the USSR Union of Scientific and Engineering Societies whereby engineering organizations in the United States will invite engineers from the USSR to work in their offices in the United States for periods of one to two years. The exchange can occur in both directions. The concept is that the USSR engineers will learn U.S. management techniques and develop skills in the management of engineering enterprises. This program is now under way.