July/August 2024 - 89

Reflecting back on his graduate studies, one of his
Gallant and the home team
personal mentors and graduate study advisor, Civil
Engineering Professor Emeritus Richard Finno, Ph.D., P.E.,
BC.GE, states, " I was fortunate to work with Aaron at
Northwestern. He was the ideal graduate student who
operated independently and was more like a colleague than a
student. " Finno recounts playing golf with Gallant and
smilingly adds, " Aaron was smart enough never to beat his
advisor. It would probably be different now. "
Conducting Research Is Central
Gallant's research endeavors cover a wide spectrum of
subjects. He says, " Like most researchers I enjoy the ideation
process, engaging industry and the creativity that you get to
apply during a project. I particularly enjoy the topic of
ground improvement and exploring new foundation types
and concepts. "
Regarding Gallant's research, we have the words of Arash
Khosravifar, Ph.D., P.E., associate professor, civil and
environmental engineering at Portland State University who
has worked with Gallant for several years on a research
project sponsored by the National Science Foundation. " Dr.
Gallant embodies the characteristics of an engineering
professor who is both technically rigorous and practical. Our
research focuses on a bio-based technique for mitigating soil
liquefaction during earthquakes. One aspect of the research
involves solving heavy differential equations. Aaron has the
talent to relate these rather dry topics to engineering and
practical applications, which I can only assume is rooted in
his experience as a practitioner. He is an invaluable member
of our research team, and is an absolute joy to work with. "
The thought is echoed by Michael McGuire, Ph.D., P.E.,
associate professor and department head, Lafayette College. " I
appreciate Aaron's focus on solving practical problems
through his research and his connection to the profession.
Service to the Profession
" He has a sharp mind and a broad set of technical skills
In addition to DFI, Gallant is a member of the American
Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and its Geo-Institute, the
United States Universities Council on Geotechnical Education
and Research, and the Geotechnical Extreme Events
Reconnaissance Association. In 2020, he received the Special
Recognition Award for the DFI Educational Trust Young
Professor Paper Competition. He has authored or co-authored
more than 100 technical papers and research reports, has
made myriad technical presentations at a variety of
conferences, and has garnered multiple prestigious awards
from ASCE, DFI, and Northwestern, Maine and Tufts
universities. As a relatively young professional, his extensive
gained from his academic training and years of professional
experience. "
accolades and contributions already cover the entire
spectrum of that which can be achieved in a full career.
Suffice to say he is an extremely engaged and productive
professional, an understatement to be sure.
Challenges Ahead
As to what challenges Gallant sees confronting the profession
he offers, " Today employers are struggling to find geotechnical
engineers or civil engineers more broadly. The
scope of civil and geotechnical engineering is constantly
expanding, and technologies are always evolving. We need to
do more outreach and get younger generations interested in
civil engineering earlier on. DFI, as an organization, does a
great job in this regard, but we need to do more. "
Aaron Gallant is certainly doing his share in this effort. He
is the ultimate team player, and as a former point guard, who
still makes it to the gym on a regular basis, he is eager to pass
the ball to all who will join in.
In all he does, he is proud to have the support of his " home
team, " which includes wife Marlee, 4-year-old daughter Aila
and 2.5-year-old son Evan. Moving the ball forward is truly a
Gallant team effort.
DEEP FOUNDATIONS * JULY/AUG 2024 * 89
July/August 2024

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