Overview
Dirk Kestner, PE, SE, LEED AP BD+C, ENV SP, Principal and Director of Sustainable Design at Walter P Moore, has been selected as a Fellow by the American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) Structural Engineering Institute (SEI). The announcement was made during SEI’s Structures Congress 2023 in New Orleans.
“Dirk Kestner’s unwavering dedication and leadership in sustainable design has been an invaluable asset to our firm,” says Blair Hanuschak, Executive Director of Structures at Walter P Moore. “We are thrilled that the SEI has recognized Dirk’s expertise and passion by awarding him this prestigious fellowship. Amidst a distinguished career of accolades, awards, and industry activities, this achievement will stand out as a testament to Dirk’s tremendous contributions. We firmly believe that no one is more deserving of this honor than Dirk.”
According to the ASCE, a Fellow is an individual who has made “celebrated contributions and developed creative solutions that change lives around the world.” It is a prestigious honor held by only three percent of ASCE members.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition as a Fellow of the Structural Engineering Institute,” shares Kestner. “I am grateful to have been part of the SEI Sustainability Committee from its inception and to have contributed to the launch of SE 2050. Throughout my career, I have been guided by the importance of supporting and sharing knowledge with others and working toward the advancement of the industry. I hope to continue inspiring and supporting the next generation of engineers in pursuing sustainable design solutions.”
As the Director of Sustainable Design, Kestner plays a crucial role in ensuring that Walter P Moore’s designs incorporate sustainable strategies. He guides the firm’s teams through a client inquiry process to establish bespoke sustainability goals for each project and leads them to achieve those goals. With his training and experience as a structural engineer, Kestner applies his passion for environmental accountability to elevate the knowledge and expertise of his colleagues, creating better outcomes for clients and projects.
Kestner is a nationally recognized expert in life cycle assessment and embodied carbon of construction materials, serving on various committees and presenting at regional and national conferences. He previously chaired the USGBC’s LEED Materials and Resources Technical Advisory Group and was named to Engineering News-Record Texas and Louisiana’s Top 20 under 40.
Kestner is one of 14 SEI members who were named a Fellow in 2023.
