Intro to Building Forensics

tHURSDAY, jULY 30 @ the Pendo Building

4:30 pm - 5:00 pm Networking I 5:00 pm- 6:00 PM Session 

This is a free event, registration is required : 1 HSW Credit 

Join the BEC - Research Triangle Chapter and WIA for a special educational session on building forensics led by Rachel Palisin, PE, LEED AP, Principal and Managing Director of Walter P. Moore. 

Discussion Summary

Building enclosure failures provide some of the most valuable lessons for improving design, detailing, and construction practices. Aligning with Henry Petroski's observation that design progress is often rooted in understanding failure, this session draws on forensic investigations of enclosure systems, translating real-world examples of how systems fall short into practical guidance for architects, engineers, and construction professionals. Rather than viewing failure as an endpoint, we can consider it a critical feedback loop to inform better decision-making, more resilient detailing, and more constructible designs. Through case-based examples, attendees will examine common enclosure issues—such as water intrusion, air leakage, and material incompatibility—along with the diagnostic methods used to identify root causes and develop effective repair strategies. The session highlights how insights gained from existing buildings and active construction sites can be applied proactively to reduce risk, improve constructability, and enhance overall project outcomes. Additionally, the session addresses the role of field engagement and multidisciplinary collaboration in building enclosure practice. It will provide perspective on building confidence in construction site environments and navigating complex project dynamics, including establishing a technical presence as a female within a traditionally male-dominated area of the industry. Participants will leave with practical technical takeaways as well as strategies to strengthen their effectiveness in the field.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe typical enclosure performance issues, the associated failure mechanisms, and understand their root causes based on forensic case studies.
2. Explain key investigation techniques and apply a forensic mindset proactively during design and construction to anticipate and mitigate potential enclosure issues.
3. Compare common remediation strategies and assess how lessons learned from repairs can improve the durability and resilience of new designs.
4. Implement practical “do’s and don’ts” for enclosure detailing, material selection, and trade coordination to improve constructability and long-term performance.
5. Develop strategies for effective participation in construction and existing building environments, including communication, observation, and decision-making, with particular relevance for women advancing in the AEC industry.

Meet the Speaker

Describe typical enclosure performance issues, the associated failure mechanisms, and understand their root causes based on forensic case studies. Rachel Palisin, PE, LEED AP, Principal and Managing Director at Walter P Moore, brings over 20 years of experience as a female professional in the AEC industry to this presentation on building enclosure and performance design. Rooted in forensic practice, her session analyzes lessons learned from firsthand field investigations, focusing on common failures, diagnostic approaches, and repair strategies to provide clear 'do's and don'ts' for detailing, materials, and construction coordination. Beyond these technical insights, she highlights strategies for building confidence and navigating complex site dynamics, offering perspectives on establishing a strong field presence as a woman in the industry.

Tickets

$0.00 Member Ticket

$0.00 Non-Member Ticket