Nick Hudyma was recently honored by the Idaho Academy of Science and Engineering for his outstanding contributions to the field of civil engineering. The organization recognized him as a trailblazing researcher in geotechnical engineering at their annual closing banquet.
Hudyma is known for his pioneering research that delves into the behavior of rock, both in controlled laboratory settings and in the field. Utilizing cutting-edge imaging techniques such as CT scanning, photogrammetry, and LiDAR, along with geophysical measurements like acoustic emission and ultrasonics, he bridges the gap between theory and practice to unravel the mysteries of rock mechanics.
Some notable areas of investigation include fracture characterization of cortical bone, identifying early signs of rock failure, and understanding how rocks interact with their environment to inform protective measures against rockfall hazards.
Apart from his research endeavors, Hudyma has an extensive publication record with over 120 papers published in esteemed scientific venues. His research has received support from prestigious organizations like the National Science Foundation and the Florida Department of Transportation.
In addition to his academic work, Hudyma has served as an expert witness for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Justice. He has also provided his expertise to complex construction projects and served as the chair of the civil engineering department at Boise State from 2019-2022.
To learn more about Nick Hudyma and his achievements, you can visit the College of Engineering website.