Auburn civil and environmental engineering students sweep the International Erosion Control Association Conference
Published: Apr 1, 2025 9:55 AM
By Olivia Ballard
Ten representatives from Auburn’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) — including students, faculty and researchers — attended this year’s International Erosion Control Association (IECA) annual conference, walking away with four awards.
The IECA conference in Richmond, Virginia, in February, recognizes the outstanding achievements in the erosion and sediment control industry. Michael Perez, Brasfield and Gorrie associate professor in civil and environmental engineering, said his favorite part of the conference is seeing how well his students represent Auburn.
“Seeing our students present their research, make industry connections and win awards for their work makes me so proud,” Perez said.
Brian Roche, CEE graduate research assistant and four-time attendee of IECA, walked away from this year’s conference with the Paper of the Year Award. Roche attributes his growth as an engineer to Auburn and its dedicated professors, highlighting their significant role in his success.
“Auburn is one of the leaders in driving innovation crucial for environmental protection,” Roche said. “Auburn and my advisor, Dr. Michael Perez, have been great in my professional development. It’s through the research opportunities presented at Auburn that I found myself at IECA as a presenter and moderator.”
Caroline Harrison, CEE graduate research assistant and first-time attendee, debuted as a student presenter and moderator at this year’s conference. With a background in environmental engineering, Harrison found IECA the perfect platform for growth in the industry, and she left with new insight and perspective on the industry’s opportunities.
“My biggest takeaway from the conference was the connections I made with other professionals,” Harrison said. “Connecting with so many new people with shared experiences gave me a newfound appreciation for the opportunity to become involved in my early career.”
Ten representatives from Auburn’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) — including students, faculty and researchers — attended this year’s International Erosion Control Association (IECA) annual conference, walking away with four awards.
