Magner earns Ph.D. degree in Civil Engineering

Kerry Allen Magner, son of Rose Magner and James Magner of Waukon, was conferred a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical Engineering Emphasis from the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) in Rolla, MO December 17, 2021.

Magner is a Waukon High School graduate and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Iowa State University (ISU) in Ames, a Master of Science degree in Geological Engineering from Missouri S&T, and a second Master of Science degree in Explosives Engineering from Missouri S&T.

His doctoral research and dissertation “Hydromechanical Stress and Internal Erosion under Earthen Structures” focuses on exploring seepage through earth dams and levees. This research increases the body of knowledge on the roles that soil type, stress, strain and seepage play in earth dam and levee failures. His research will be used to help improve dam and levee safety along the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers and throughout the Midwest.

While at Missouri S&T, he was awarded the distinction of Chancellor’s Fellow for his exceptional research and leadership activities.  Earlier while at ISU he was selected to be part of the ISU Presidents Leadership Class due to his exceptional academic performance, leadership experience, service and contribution to the ISU community.

During his time at Missouri S&T, Magner was active as a Graduate Teaching/Research Assistant, Instructor and Graduate Student Council Representative. He instructed courses in Civil Engineering, Foundation Design, Soil/Rock Mechanics, Pavement Design, Geological Engineering, Earth Dams and Engineering Communications. His research assistant work supported Missouri Department of Transportation (DOT) and National Transportation Institute funded projects that focused on improving bridge foundation design and safety on state and federal bridges.

He is currently a Senior Geotechnical Engineer and Technical Advisor with NewFields Mining Design and Technical Services in Elko, NV and a Licensed Professional Engineer in many states. He oversees projects in the metals and minerals mining industry both domestically and internationally, with ongoing projects in the U.S., Canada, Central America, South America and Africa.