Utility Engineering

Texas A&M Transportation Institute
1100 NW Loop 410
Suite 605
San Antonio, TX 78213
(210) 321-1240
[email protected]

Dr. Harshit Shukla is an Assistant Research Scientist at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) with a Ph.D. in Construction Engineering and Management from Clemson University, completed in 2020. Dr. Shukla specializes in advancing infrastructure resilience and efficiency through cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), digital delivery, geospatial tools, and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). His research work focuses on developing innovative solutions for pipeline systems, utility investigations, construction inspections, and risk management.

Dr. Shukla has extensive experience leveraging AI and machine learning models for complex engineering challenges, including developing algorithms to classify utility-related change orders, predict utility failures, and create 3D models of underground infrastructure using geophysical data. His expertise also encompasses designing methodologies for condition assessment, predictive analysis, and real-time data collection in transportation and utility projects. Dr. Shukla has applied advanced techniques for 3D construction inspection using low-cost GNSS antennas, mobile devices, and UAS, enabling accurate and efficient geospatial mapping and documentation of construction activities.

Dr. Shukla is actively involved in several research projects focusing on utility conflict management, construction and utility inspection, geophysical investigation of utility facilities, and developing requirements to support digital delivery programs. As a licensed remote pilot, he has utilized UAS to conduct construction and utility relocation inspections and has developed 3D models and digital as-builts for various construction projects across Texas. Additionally, he has extensive experience using multi-channel ground penetrating radar for utility investigations.

In his work on pipeline systems, Dr. Shukla has developed sustainable leakage detection techniques for water distribution networks and explored energy harvesting technologies for powering sensor systems. His research has also included evaluating stormwater pipeline vulnerabilities during extreme weather events providing actionable insights to enhance infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness.

Dr. Shukla is active on several committees and organizations. At ASCE, he contributes to committees on the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Manual of Practice for Infrastructure Planning and certification of electronic modeling data and digital twins. He serves on the Board of Governors for the Utility Engineering and Surveying Institute (UESI) as a Governor, Young Member. Additionally, he is a friend of the Standing Committee on Utilities at the Transportation Research Board (TRB).

Dr. Shukla is actively involved in several TxDOT research projects focusing on utility conflict management, utility and construction inspection, geophysical investigation of utility facilities, and developing requirements to support the digital delivery program. Dr. Shukla is a licensed remote pilot and has used UAS to conduct construction and utility relocation inspections. He has developed 3D models and digital as-builts for various construction projects across Texas. Dr. Shukla is also experienced in using geophysical instruments for utility investigations.