The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is raising alarm over the Trump administration’s recent decision to remove all members of the National Science Foundation (NSF) board, warning that the move could have far-reaching consequences for infrastructure safety, innovation and resilience.
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In a statement released Tuesday, ASCE President Marsha Anderson Bomar said the dismissal threatens the advancement of “American innovation, resilience and safety.” The organization emphasized the critical role the NSF plays in supporting engineering research that informs how infrastructure is designed, built and maintained across the United States.
The administration removed all members of the National Science Board on April 24, according to Reuters, prompting concern from industry leaders and engineering professionals who rely on NSF-backed research to address evolving challenges such as climate change and aging infrastructure.
ASCE underscored that the NSF has long served as a cornerstone for funding “independent, competitive and peer reviewed research” that benefits national health, defense and welfare. This research has been instrumental in advancing technologies and methodologies that improve infrastructure performance under stress.
“Dismissing the entire leadership branch of an organization whose work spans many complex disciplines threatens the viability of their operations, which benefit all of us,” said Bomar in the statement. “The world witnessed the United States’ transformation into a global superpower through investments in research and innovation. As we near the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, we must make decisions that continue that legacy.”
The organization pointed to NSF-supported studies that have driven improvements in seismic performance, flood mitigation and resilience against extreme weather events. These advancements have directly influenced building codes, engineering standards and construction practices nationwide.
ASCE also warned that disruptions to NSF leadership could slow progress in understanding how infrastructure systems respond to long-term wear, environmental stressors and natural disasters. The group tied NSF-backed research to critical gains in safeguarding the built environment.
“Our understanding of how to safeguard buildings, roads, bridges and more against seismic events or how these structures will fare over many years of use is largely the result of NSF support,” Bomar said. “Our workforce, public safety, and global competitiveness depend on continued support of NSF and its contributions to U.S. excellence.”
Industry observers note that the NSF’s role extends beyond academic research, influencing workforce development and innovation pipelines that are essential to maintaining the nation’s competitive edge in construction and engineering.
The sudden removal of the board raises questions about continuity in funding priorities and oversight, particularly as the construction sector faces mounting pressures from climate risks, population growth and infrastructure modernization needs.
ASCE’s statement signals broader concern within the engineering community that policy decisions affecting research institutions could have cascading effects on project delivery, safety standards and long-term infrastructure planning.
Originally reported by Sebastian Obando, Senior Reporter in Construction Dive.
