Meet Vicente Gonzalez-Moret: A construction engineer with a passion for generating boundary-pushing new knowledge

Tell us about your current role and the work you are involved in.

I'm a professor of construction engineering and management within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Alberta. I also hold a Tier 1 Canal Research Chair in Digital Lean Construction. I’m the instructor for the Smart Digital Systems and Processes in Construction course for the new online master’s of engineering with a specialization in construction engineering and management.

What led you to pursue a career in your field?

To be honest, I was always strong in mathematics and physics and I enjoyed everything related to those fields. That natural interest led me to pursue an engineering degree in Chile. Over time, I developed a particular passion for construction and structural engineering, which ultimately drew me into this field.
 

Was there a particular moment or influence that sparked your interest?

Before joining academia, I worked in structural and construction management. During that time, I realized that many challenges existed in the management of construction projects. I also discovered that several academics were applying the scientific method to address these management issues, which deeply intrigued me and captured my interest in pursuing research in this field.

How does your work contribute to the high-level goals of your department?

I work in the field of construction engineering and management, which truly represents the convergence of multiple disciplines — psychology, sociology, engineering, mathematics, computer science and operations research. Together, these areas contribute to the effective management of infrastructure and building projects within the broader domain of civil and environmental engineering. For this reason, I believe my research and professional work are highly relevant to, and well aligned with, the objectives of this department.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

The aspects I find most rewarding — and that make me feel I have the best job in the world — are first, the opportunity to explore, discover and develop methods, methodologies and technologies that help solve real problems affecting people in construction projects. This is my greatest motivation for working in academia. Second, and equally important, is the privilege of collaborating with exceptionally bright students, colleagues and partners in Canada and around the world. These two elements truly define the highlights of my career.

Can you share a project or initiative you are particularly proud of? What was its impact? Why is an online MEng specializing in construction management valuable?

Over the years, I have led and contributed to many projects that I truly value, but the initiative I’m most proud of is Lean Construction 4.0. It represents the convergence of several schools of thought I’ve been exploring for many years: lean construction, digitalization and automation, and, at the core, a human-centred perspective. I believe this approach has the potential to profoundly transform how we conduct research and develop practical solutions to address real-world challenges in the construction industry.

This vision also underpins why students choose the master of engineering in construction management. Our program delivers state-of-the-art knowledge that bridges engineering theory with real-world practice. Students learn to translate advanced concepts into tangible, implementable solutions that engineers and practitioners can apply to the everyday problems they face in industry. That practical, research-driven impact is what makes this program — and this field — so exciting.

What skills or experiences have been most valuable to you in your work?

It’s difficult to single out one specific skill that has made me the professional I am today, but several factors have played a defining role. First, the influence of my family, who taught me how to face both the challenges and the joys of life, has been fundamental. My academic journey — spanning from my bachelor’s degrees to my PhD — across different universities also shaped my mindset and expertise. Equally important has been the opportunity to interact with generous, humble and brilliant people throughout my career. As the saying goes, it takes a village to become who you are; no one grows in isolation. Finally, the diverse environments and institutions where I’ve worked have allowed me to explore and develop my ideas — from structural and digitalization projects to construction management and beyond. All these experiences together have equipped me with the skills and perspective that define my professional path today.

How do you stay current with advancements and new trends in your field?

That’s essentially what we scientists do. We are constantly reading, reviewing and engaging with the latest developments in our fields and related disciplines. Staying current also happens naturally through collaboration — working closely with PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and colleagues in my group, who bring fresh ideas and diverse perspectives. In essence, our role as scientists is to generate knowledge that doesn’t yet exist — to push the boundaries of what is known. That’s what makes research at a university like the U of A so exciting: We’re continuously developing cutting-edge, globally relevant work.

What is one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

I used to be an amateur musician — I play guitar, bass and drums. At home, I’m happily surrounded by girls: my wife, our two daughters and our dog, Polly. We often play music together as a family. I also enjoy football weekly in different leagues, and, back in the day, I played second- and third-division football in New Zealand.