Fred’s commitment to excellence is reflected in his dual certifications from the American Meteorological Society (AMS), as both a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) and a Certified Consulting Meteorologist (CCM) —distinctions held by fewer than 25 active meteorologists nationwide. These credentials not only affirm his technical and analytical skills but also highlight his exceptional communication abilities, honed through years of sharing complex weather data with television audiences and, later, juries. His testimony work since 2015 illustrates his seamless ability to translate technical weather analysis into courtroom evidence, enhancing client confidence in his conclusions.

Continuous learning defines Fred’s career. As a long-standing member of the AMS, he stays current with the latest advances in meteorological research and technology. This commitment, paired with hands-on experience in weather pattern analysis, strengthens his ability to adapt and grow within the evolving field of forensic meteorology. With advancements in weather data density and technology on the horizon, Fred is particularly excited about how these tools will enhance the accuracy and depth of future weather reconstructions. He envisions forensic meteorology as crucial for managing risk in rapidly developing areas, with his team providing precise reconstructions for claims and risk assessment amid climate challenges.

When not engaged in his work, Fred finds balance through family time and competitive running. As a former soccer player, he has transformed his athletic drive into running, striving to be among the fastest in his race category.

A key example of Ben’s ability to lead and adapt in complex, high-stakes environments was his response to a vehicle impact assignment with structural collapse potential. Within 24 hours, he assembled a team of engineers, architects, and construction personnel, mobilized 3D scanning equipment and high-reach lifts to respond to the developing public safety concerns. His swift actions led to a same-day letter identifying the imminent collapse danger and the need to cordon off the area. When the structure partially collapsed the following weekend, Ben coordinated a second rapid response. He addressed the potential dangers of collapse progression, ensured safe debris removal, and facilitated further inspection and remediation efforts.  His quick thinking and ability to mobilize resources underscores his leadership in urgent response scenarios.

Innovation is central to Ben’s approach to forensic engineering. In a fire-damage loss case involving a building next to a collapsed structure, he developed a phased investigative methodology to address safety concerns during inspection. Using 3D scanning technology, Ben assessed the structural deformation of a formerly shared wall from nearby rooftops, then used the data to plan safe entry for further analysis from the inside out. This methodical, data-driven approach not only allowed for a safe inspection but also prevented further collapse. His strategic use of technology and phased investigations exemplifies his ability to provide precise, adaptive engineering solutions for both assessments and remediation.

Collaboration is a cornerstone of Ben Irwin’s work, particularly when tackling complex claims and client assignments. He leads cross-functional teams with a clear understanding that no two assignments are alike—each investigation requires a tailored approach that reflects the unique challenges presented. Ben believes in engaging collaboratively with clients from the very beginning, helping them refine their needs and align their expectations with scientifically reliable investigative methodologies. This proactive collaboration sets the stage for more effective investigations, ensuring that clients are empowered and informed throughout the process.

The internal collaboration among the team is just as critical. Ben strategically builds teams that can leverage individual strengths while avoiding unnecessary overlap in efforts, all with the goal of delivering the highest-quality investigation and reporting. His ability to organize, plan, and direct complex investigations, along with his willingness to step back and let others on his team shine, exemplifies the collaborative culture he fosters.

Ben’s leadership and accomplishments have earned him notable recognition, including being named Project Leader of the Year in 2021. His work spans a diverse range of projects, from large-scale commercial and residential developments of complex buildings to high-rise skyscrapers and even bridges. Ben’s experience in addressing post-collapse, fire-related damage, and high-risk structural failures makes him an invaluable asset in forensic investigations.

Looking ahead, Ben is excited about the future of forensic engineering, particularly in the development of new ways to distill complicated in-field data, even when acquired at large scale by teams of experts, into clear, concise, and meaningful visualizations that are easier and faster for clients to understand. His passion for advancing the field and his commitment to excellence make him an exceptional figure in the industry.

To stay abreast of the latest developments in forensic engineering, Ahmad relies on esteemed publications like Structure Magazine and regularly attends conferences hosted by the Structural Engineering Association and the American Concrete Institute. His involvement with professional peers has been instrumental in keeping him updated on industry advancements. Ahmad’s presentation to the ASCE’s Structural Engineering Institute on construction defects in March 2022 and his role on the Committee on Practices to Reduce Failures highlight his dedication to sharing knowledge and improving industry standards most critical to life safety. Recently, he has also navigated the complexities brought about by the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in engineering, demonstrating his adaptability and critical thinking in addressing AI-related challenges in the commercial use of the technology.

Continuous learning is a cornerstone of Ahmad’s professional philosophy. He holds dual degrees in civil engineering and physics from the University of Virginia, complemented by postgraduate work in computer science. Currently, he is pursuing a master’s degree in structural engineering at Auburn University, set to graduate in December 2024. Ahmad emphasizes the importance of developing soft skills, which he believes are crucial for success in the engineering field. His advice to aspiring professionals underscores the necessity of a well-rounded skill set, combining technical expertise with effective communication and problem-solving abilities.

Balancing work and personal life is essential for Ahmad’s productivity and well-being. He advocates for a work environment that supports personal well-being, challenging the outdated notion that excessive pressure leads to better performance. He prioritizes time with his wife, with whom he shares a passion for bouldering, a hobby that they enjoy together. Ahmad also dedicates time to volunteering with Penny Appeal USA, coaching youth wrestling, and reading the works of Edward W. Said and Antony Lowenstein.

Looking ahead, Ahmad is excited about the future of engineering, particularly the increasing complexity of codes and the growing emphasis on prescriptive design allowances. This evolution allows engineers to focus on solving intricate problems, such as designing bridges for vessel impacts. Ahmad is enthusiastic about offering non-destructive evaluation services to address building failures, leveraging his extensive expertise to contribute to the field’s advancement. His forward-thinking approach and commitment to excellence position him as a valuable asset to the engineering community.

Ahmad Elhajj, P.E., is a forensic engineer based in Baltimore, Maryland. In his forensic practice, Mr. Elhajj applies meticulous attention to detail, delivering comprehensive scientific analysis and reporting to educate clients with answers to their technical questions.  He brings the big picture into focus with thorough scientific data and analysis to qualify its soundness.  His capabilities extend well beyond traditional origin and cause determinations to include wraparound services like cost estimating and remediation design, as applied to the built environment, temporary construction supports and structures, and construction materials.  Structures of all types, bridges and buildings, from the ground to the sky, are carefully analyzed under the applied sciences governing their physical behavior.  This is Ahmad’s craft—Investigative Sciences, Applied.