Newsletter Volume 11, Issue 2 June 2026

 

1. What is your background or area of expertise?

   I am a Zambian International student in my second year of Civil Engineering at Tongji University. I am currently researching on Zambia’s hydro/renewable energy sector under Associate Professor Chen Wang’s supervision, with a growing focus on sustainable construction foundations.   

2. How did you first learn about IPA?

   I was first introduced to press-in technology by my supervisor Associate Professor Wang, who guided me to learn about the International Press-in Association (IPA) as the leading global body for this innovative construction technology. 

3. What motivated you to join IPA?

   I joined IPA to deepen my understanding of press-in piling and learn from global industry and academic experts. I look forward to exploring how this sustainable technology can be applied in my research and future projects. 

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

   I look forward to connecting with professionals in the field, in order to get in-depth knowledge of new technologies that will be beneficial for the future of engineering. With the access to IPA’s technical resources, industry case studies and expert networks, I hope to build knowledge to apply press-in technology to sustainable foundation works. 

5. Are there any specific topics or areas you are particularly interested in (e.g., offshore wind, press-in technology, sustainability, etc.)?

    I have particularly gained interest in press-in piling applications for hydro related civil projects and its adaptability for sustainable project foundations in developing regions. I would like to look further into how the durability and stability of press-in piles can be an advantage in withstanding challenging environmental conditions such as water-induced corrosion and heavy loads from water pressure. 

 Looking Ahead

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

   Press-in Technology offers a tenable alternative to traditional piling methods as it minimizes vibration, noise and ground disturbance. I believe the future of press-in technology will also see greater integration with smart construction and automation, making it more efficient. The Gyropress method, for example is designed to penetrate hard ground and reinforced concrete obstructions without needing to remove them first. This makes it adaptable for the diverse ground conditions found in different regions. Press-in technology prioritizes low-impact, eco-friendly construction which aligns with global sustainability goals.

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

   A message for IPA Newsletter readers or the younger generation entering this field is that our work as Engineers is about more than building structures, its about building resilient futures for our communities. As a new member entering this field and exploring press-in technology, I urge you to stay curious, learn from academic networks and always connect the cutting-edge technologies to local challenges. Our generation has the ability to build infrastructure that is both functional and environmentally friendly, press-in technology is a fantastic starting point for that mission.