ISU Professor Honored by American Society of Civil Engineers

An Idaho State University professor is being recognized by his field’s largest professional organization in the United States.

Recently, Mustafa Mashal, professor of civil engineering and associate vice president for research and innovation partnerships at ISU, was named a Fellow by the American Society of Civil Engineers. ASCE Fellows are members who “have made celebrated contributions and developed creative solutions that change lives around the world.” An honor held by only about three percent of ASCE's membership, Fellow status represents one of the Society's highest professional distinctions. Candidates must be nominated and complete a rigorous application process that includes at least three references from ASCE members, two of whom must be ASCE Fellows. Elevation to Fellow is granted only upon the unanimous approval of ASCE's Membership Application Review Committee.

“Earning the American Society of Civil Engineers Fellow designation is especially meaningful to me because it reflects a professional journey that began during my doctoral studies in New Zealand, where I was the only ASCE student member in the country and helped establish the ASCE New Zealand Section alongside other ASCE members,” Mashal said. “Being named an ASCE Fellow is a tremendous honor and a recognition of both my service to ASCE and my contributions to the civil engineering profession. I am deeply grateful to the mentors, colleagues, collaborators, and students whose support, guidance, and partnership have shaped my career. This distinction inspires me to continue advancing the profession through impactful research, dedicated committee service, meaningful collaboration, and leadership while supporting the next generation of civil engineers and serving the ASCE community.”

Mashal is an internationally recognized expert in structural and earthquake engineering. In 2023, he was elected a Fellow of the ASCE Structural Engineering Institute and was recognized as one of the Idaho Business Review's Accomplished Under 40 honorees. In 2025, he was named Idaho State University's Distinguished Researcher in recognition of his contributions to research, innovation, and the engineering profession. 

“Being named a Fellow of ASCE is a significant honor and a testament to Dr. Mashal’s efforts in advancing the goals of the organization through his expertise and service to his profession,” said Jim Widmann, dean of ISU’s College of Science and Engineering. “We are proud of all Dr. Mashal has accomplished and grateful for his work that enhances the reputation of engineering at ISU and provides cutting-edge research experiences for our students.” 

Recently, a test pad of Sweetcrete, an innovative concrete blend invented by Mashal and his colleagues, was poured in Burley, Idaho. Sweetcrete uses less cement and is cheaper to produce, yet is as strong as conventional concrete. Another project led by Mashal at ISU for the Idaho Transportation Department was applied in the design and construction of the Fort Hall Interchange Bridge over Interstate 15 in southeastern Idaho. The project received a 2024 High Value Research Award from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.

Started in 1852, the ASCE now represents more than 160,000 members of the civil engineering profession in 177 countries.

For more information on Idaho State University’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, visit isu.edu/cee.