Accomplished bridge engineer Frank Russo, PE, PhD, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Steel Bridge Task Force’s Richard S. Fountain Award, which recognizes leadership in steel bridge research and outstanding efforts to advance AASHTO specifications.
"Frank's contributions to steel bridge engineering have been nothing short of extraordinary," said Dan Snyder, vice president of construction for the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). "His advancements in forensic investigations, design provisions, and girder standards have improved the way we approach bridge design and construction. His dedication to education and mentorship--through the development of curricula and his extensive teaching of National Highway Institute courses--has strengthened the knowledge base of the industry and shaped countless engineers."
Russo started Russo Structural Services in 2021 and has worked as a full-time bridge engineer since 1995. He spent 11 years at Michael Baker International before leaving to start his firm and had earlier stints at HNTB and URS Corporation. He began his career as a design engineer with the Iowa Department of Transportation. In 2023, he received an AISC Lifetime Achievement Award.
“Frank has made so many significant contributions to our steel bridge industry and is most deserving of the Fountain Award,” said AISC vice president of bridges Brandon Chavel, PE, PhD. “His efforts in the development of design specifications and recommendations, including the new AISC/NSBA Standard Plans for Steel Bridges, have had a substantial impact on advancing steel bridge design. His continued willingness to always educate and mentor others through his teaching efforts, committee work, and personal relationships is unmatched. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to work with Frank, including myself, will be forever grateful for his time and dedication to our industry.”
Russo also has an extensive teaching background in academia and professional development. He has lectured on bridge design, structural analysis, and engineering principles at leading institutions and has taught over 150 NHI courses. His ability to translate complex engineering concepts into practical applications has made him a sought-after instructor and mentor in the industry.
Russo holds a PhD in civil engineering from Iowa State University, where he conducted research on bridge column performance and retrofitting for seismic loading, as well as the impact resistance of beam bridges. He earned bachelor's and master's degrees in civil engineering from Temple University. For more on Russo's career and accomplishments, see "A Bridge Lifer" in the October 2023 issue of Modern Steel Construction.
The Steel Bridge Task Force comprises AISI, the National Steel Bridge Alliance (NSBA), and the AASHTO Steel and Metals Technical Committee. The Richard S. Fountain Award was established in 2001 and is named for the task force’s founder.