Derek B. Boland

Derek B. Boland has always been interested in how things work.  

“I have never shied away from working hard, and I have always enjoyed collaborating with others to accomplish a goal that would benefit more than just myself,” Boland says. “Building transportation infrastructure has allowed me to do just that. Working with teams of vastly different backgrounds, experiences and expertise, I have been able to serve communities throughout Arizona.”

In spring of 2025, Boland will begin a new role as a professor of practice and Beavers-Ames Chair of Heavy Construction in the Del E. Webb School of Construction in the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, part of the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University.

Boland hopes to give back and contribute to the heavy civil construction industry and the engineering community at ASU. He looks forward to helping to maintain and improve the bridge between ASU and the local heavy civil construction communities.  

“This industry has allowed me to grow as an individual and a professional, and there is much work ahead to maintain the safe and reliable infrastructure we enjoy today,” Boland says. “I am excited to leverage the experience and relationships I have built over the past two decades and share them with others, contributing to their growth and curiosity.”

Prior to joining the Fulton Schools, Boland served as transportation engineering manager with the project management group at the Arizona Department of Transportation.

“Several of the projects I have worked on have received local and regional recognition, either for partnering to complete a challenging construction project or for unique design aspects,” Boland says. “However, what I am most proud of in my career are the relationships I have built as an engineering professional.”

Boland will teach courses in heavy construction equipment, methods and materials and construction project management starting in January 2025. 

“I am excited to engage with the engineering and construction management student clubs and organizations that could benefit from faculty support and professional guidance,” Boland says.

Students in his classes should be prepared to participate and engage with their fellow students and professionals in the engineering and heavy construction industries.

“Getting to know your fellow students and the professionals in the industry is just as important as the coursework,” Boland says.

Outside the classroom, Boland loves to travel and experience new places, especially those with warm weather and water. 

“Currently, many of my hobbies revolve around activities with my 3-year-old son and owning Casa Salon, a small business in Central Phoenix with my wife,” Boland says.

Meet the newest faculty members of the Fulton Schools of Engineering here.

Written by Lisa Irish