Distinguished Engineering Alumnus
Award Recipient
T. William Lambe — 1982
This outstanding alumnus, who earned his B.S. degree in Civil Engineering in 1942, has made major contributions to the knowledge of earth structures, settlement control, foundation performances, and soil structure and behavior.
He is Edmund K. Turner Professor of Civil Engineering, Emeritus, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and a consultant in geotechnical engineering. He retired from MIT last year, after 36 years on the faculty.
During his tenure he served as Director of the Soil Stabilization Laboratory, Head of the Geotechnical Division, and Professor of Geotechnical Engineering. He developed the Integrated Civil Engineering project concept, combining applied research with engineering practice to improve design and to advance research. He has conducted pioneering research in soil mechanics and is author of Soil Testing for Engineers.
NASA has twice recognized his contributions to the Apollo Program for which he shaped the exploration project of the surface of the moon. He has also received the Norman Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the Society's Terzaghi Award for his geotechnical engineering contributions. He has been honored with election to the National Academy of Engineering.
T. William Lambe