David B. Steinman: A Bridge Builder Professional and Technical Legacy

Includes a Live Web Event on 06/24/2026 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

Overview
Speaker(s)

Photo Courtesy of Parsons

Experience Level: Any level of experience

David B. Steinman (1886–1960) stands as one of the foremost American structural engineers of the twentieth century, whose work fundamentally advanced the theory and practice of suspension bridge engineering. This paper presents a comprehensive examination of Steinman’s life and professional legacy, with particular emphasis on his pioneering suspension bridge projects, including the Mackinac Bridge (Michigan), the St. Johns Bridge (Portland, Oregon), and his influential analytical work related to the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. These projects exemplify Steinman’s rigorous application of structural analysis, aerodynamic stability, and aesthetic integration, helping to establish modern design principles for long-span suspension bridges.

Beyond his technical achievements, Steinman played a critical role in elevating the engineering profession. As a founding member of the New York State Society of Professional Engineers (NYSSPE), he was a leading advocate for professional licensure, ethical responsibility, and public accountability, shaping policies that continue to guide engineering practice today.

David B. Steinman’s legacy to the engineering profession continues in the current suspension and long-span bridge design practice at Parsons, the firm that acquired Steinman’s consulting engineering firm. The presentation will discuss recent projects that rehabilitate and maintain the bridges designed by Steinman, as well as the design of new cable-suspended bridges. By linking Steinman’s historical contributions to modern suspension bridge practice, this paper underscores the lasting relevance of his work to both the profession and the infrastructure it serves.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify the motivation and objectives of the National Society of Professional Engineers and the reasons that led to its foundation.

2. Identify major technical challenges in the field of suspension bridge design, and some techniques used in the 20th century to design record spans using the technologies available at that time.

3. Identify major maintenance requirements of suspension bridges and how effective techniques can extend the service life.

1 PDH

Pricing:

NSPE Members: FREE

Non-members: FREE (Join NSPE today and save on webinars.)

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Maria G. Bruschi, PE, Envision SP

VP - Program Manager

Parsons

Maria Grazia Bruschi is a structural engineer and project manager with experience in the design, rehabilitation, and inspection of major bridges. She has managed major rehabilitation projects in the New York City metropolitan area, such as the deck replacement for the Henry Hudson Bridge upper and lower levels and portions of the Williamsburg Bridge reconstruction project. She has also developed and
coordinated the preparation of contract documents for the rehabilitation of main suspension cables on major bridges such as the Williamsburg Bridge in New York City and the Bear Mountain Bridge over the Hudson River. Maria’s international experience includes participation in specialized studies for the Messina Straits Bridge in Italy and a deck replacement and widening design for the Las Americas Bridge in Panama. She is currently the Chair of the USA Group of the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE).

Nicole Melendez, PE

Senior Project Manager

Parsons

Nicole Melendez is the currently serving as Deputy Project Manager for the replacement of Newark Bay Bridge. Her 20 years of experience have focused on the design, rehab, inspection, and management of long-span bridge projects including Goethals Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, Mackinac Bridge and Thousand Islands Bridges.