The Robert B. Harris Award and Lecture

U-M CEE honors the legacy of Professor Robert B. Harris through the Robert B. Harris Award and Lecture.

Robert B. Harris

Professor Harris served the department for 40 years, from 1947 to 1987, and was a pioneer in Construction Engineering and Management (CEM). He played a foundational role in developing the field, both at Michigan and internationally, establishing the world’s first graduate program in CEM in 1954. Known for his groundbreaking work in construction scheduling, materials, and management, Professor Harris authored influential texts and served as the longest-standing editor of the ASCE Journal of Construction Engineering and Management.

His commitment to education and innovation shaped generations of engineers and established Michigan’s leadership in CEM. Through this award and lecture series, we continue to celebrate his profound impact on the profession and his enduring contributions to the department, the University of Michigan, and the global engineering community.

Upcoming Lecture:

DateSpeakerTopicAdd to Calendar
Wednesday, April 9, 2025 1:30PM – 2:30PMJeffrey Russell – University of Wisconsin-Madison“Toward Ethical Professional Practice”Link