Lessons Learned: The 1999 Aggie Bonfire Collapse
On November 18, 1999, the traditional Aggie Bonfire, an iconic annual event at Texas A&M University, suffered a devastating structural failure that led to the death of twelve people, while injuring twenty-seven. The Aggie Bonfire was more than a mere bonfire; it was a towering structure of log stacks reaching nearly sixty feet high, an emblem of Aggie spirit and camaraderie. The collapse, which occurred during construction, was a shocking tragedy that deeply affected the University and the broader community.
Lessons Learned: The Denver International Airport Automated Baggage-Handling System
The Denver International Airport (DIA) is renowned for its iconic tent-like structure, but it is also infamous in engineering and project management circles for its ambitious yet flawed automated baggage-handling system. This system, which was intended to revolutionize the airport industry, instead became a case study in the pitfalls of over-ambitious engineering and poor project management.
Westwego Grain Elevator Explosion
The Westwego explosion was one of the deadliest grain-dust explosions in history, and it had a profound impact on the industry and the community. In the aftermath of the disaster, investigators worked tirelessly to determine the cause of the explosion and to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Tropicana Casino Resort Parking Garage Collapse
The Tropicana Casino Resort was one of Atlantic City’s premier gambling destinations, drawing thousands of visitors each year. As part of a major renovation effort, the Tropicana embarked on an ambitious construction project to build a nine-story parking garage.
The Silver Bridge: America’s Deadliest Bridge Failure
Point Pleasant Bridge, which opened on May 30, 1928, was a 1,460-foot suspension-type bridge that spanned the Ohio River to connect Ohio and West Virginia. This unique bridge incorporated many first-time applications
The PEPCON Disaster: Manmade Earthquake and Inferno
A PEPCON employee was on the loading dock on May 4, 1988 when a thick cloud began moving through the facility. There were no flames in sight, but a sudden explosion rocked the plant.