Newsletter Volume 10, Issue 3 September 2025

 

1. What is your background or area of expertise?

   My academic journey has been focused on understanding soil behavior, foundation systems, and site investigation techniques, which are crucial areas in geotechnics. During my undergraduate studies, I completed a project on the Cone Penetration Test (CPTu) under the supervision of Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Adnan Bin Zainorabidin in my final year. The project involved analyzing subsurface soil conditions using CPTu data to assess soil stratification and bearing capacity, which deepened my understanding of in-situ testing methods.

2. How did you first learn about IPA?

   I first learned about the International Press-in Association (IPA) during the class on foundations, where Ts. Dr. Nor Azizi Bin Yusoff introduced the concept as part of our Geotechnical Engineering discussions. He explained how IPA promotes advanced piling technologies, especially in terms of sustainable and low-impact methods. This sparked my interest in learning more.

3. What motivated you to join IPA?

   My main motivation to join IPA is to gain exposure to international projects, technical papers, and experts who are driving innovation in the field of Geotechnical Engineering. As a master’s student with a strong interest in foundation systems and sustainable construction, I see IPA as a valuable platform to deepen my knowledge beyond the classroom. I’m particularly interested in how the Press-in method is applied in real-world scenarios to address challenges like limited space, environmental sensitivity, and urban development.
   Additionally, being part of IPA allows me to expand my professional network, connect with like-minded engineers and researchers, and stay informed about the latest advancements in piling technologies.

 Expectations & Aspirations

4. What do you hope to gain from being a member of IPA?

   As a student, I’m also looking for opportunities to connect with professionals, researchers, and engineers who are actively applying IPA technologies in the field. I’m interested in contributing to discussions or student activities within IPA to build both my confidence and industry exposure. I want to apply what I learn from IPA to future projects, helping me become a more responsible and forward-thinking civil engineer.

5. What are your future goals or aspirations in your field?

   I am especially interested in offshore piling, particularly in relation to infrastructure like offshore wind farms, bridges, and any other marine structures. I’m curious about how press-in technology can be applied in coastal and flood-prone areas, particularly with rising concerns about climate change. I’m highly interested in innovative foundation techniques, especially how press-in piling can solve construction challenges in dense urban areas. Offshore projects present unique challenges such as harsh environmental conditions, deep water, and the need for high precision, making advanced piling techniques like press-in technology valuable.

 Looking Ahead

6. What are your thoughts on the future of press-in technology?

   • As a master’s student in Civil Engineering, I believe the future of press-in technology is highly promising, particularly considering the global shift toward sustainable and low-impact construction practices.
   • Press-in methods already provide notable benefits such as being silent, vibration-free, and space-efficient, which make them ideal for use in urban environments and areas sensitive to environmental disruption. With growing regulations on construction-related noise and vibration, this technology offers a practical solution for foundation work near existing structures, critical infrastructure, and in active urban settings.
   • Looking ahead, I see significant opportunities in integrating press-in technology with digital tools like Building Information Modelling (BIM). When combined with IoT sensors and AI-based analysis, press-in systems could evolve into fully automated, intelligent foundation solutions. This synergy between advanced machinery and digital innovation positions press-in technology as a key driver in the development of smarter, greener, and more efficient infrastructure.

   
   

7. Do you have any message for IPA Newsletter readers or the younger generation entering this field?

   • To the readers of the IPA Newsletter and aspiring engineers entering the field, I believe this is a truly exciting time to be part of the Civil and Geotechnical Engineering community.
   • Innovations such as Press-in piling go beyond technical advancement; they reflect a broader shift toward more sustainable, community-conscious, and responsible construction practices. I encourage young engineers and students to stay curious, continuously seek knowledge, and embrace digital tools like BIM, real-time data monitoring, and specialized engineering software. These skills will be essential in shaping the future of our industry.
   • IPA provides an excellent platform to explore global perspectives, access cutting-edge research, and engage with professionals dedicated to smarter and more resilient infrastructure. Most importantly, always remember that as engineers, we’re not just constructing buildings. We are helping create safer, cleaner, and more livable communities for generations to come.