Wichita Chapter Meetings

Date: Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Location: M6 Concrete Cutting & Coring Facility (1027 S. McComas, Wichita)

Please note the change in meeting location and complete the following online form to indicate your meal choice from Jimmy John’s.  (Bottled water will be provided by our host.) https://forms.office.com/r/8SpN4xKK0W

Presentation Title:

Reinforcing Bar Fabrication/Concrete Cutting and Coring Presentation/Tour

Presentation Abstract:

This presentation will include an overview of the reinforcing bar fabrication process, featuring videos and images from the M6 Concrete Accessories fabrication shop in El Dorado. Attendees will gain insight into the specialized machines used in the fabrication process, including their functions and capabilities in shaping and preparing reinforcing bar for various construction applications.

The primary focus of the presentation will be on Concrete Cutting. This section will highlight the different machines and tools used in concrete cutting operations and include demonstrations of selected equipment. The presentation will also showcase case studies from a range of unique and challenging cutting projects, illustrating the practical applications of the equipment and the expertise required to execute precise cuts in diverse construction scenarios.

Presenter:

Jake Myers, Concrete Cutting Manager, M6 Concrete Accessories/M6 Concrete Cutting & Coring

Presenter Bio:

Jake Myers is the Concrete Cutting Manager for M6 Concrete Cutting & Coring.  Jake has been in the concrete cutting industry for over 25 years and has built one of the most respected and capable crews in the Midwest.  Jake and his crew work together with contractors, engineers, and owners to find unique cutting solutions on a variety of projects throughout Kansas and the region.

Fee:

SEAKM Member - $25.00

SEAKM Non-Member - $30.00

RSVP/Questions:

Please accept the calendar invitation or email Brent Perkins, SEAKM-WI Vice President, at [bperkins@dwase.com]bperkins@dwase.com

SAVE THE DATE! - NOVEMBER CHAPTER MEETING ANNOUNCED

Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Location: Scotch & Sirloin (5325 E Kellogg Dr., Wichita)

Presentation Title:

Multi-Family Wood Construction: Engineering Mid-Rise Buildings

Presentation Description:

This presentation is intended for structural engineers who are seeking a full system understanding of unique design considerations associated with 4- to 6-story multi-family wood buildings. Developed in response to growing interest in these projects, this presentation goes beyond code provisions and focuses on the “how-to” associated with their structural design. Topics will include structural design steps, considerations, and detailing best practices related to both gravity and lateral analysis. Shrinkage will be covered in detail, including its cause, effect on structural components, and detailing best practices that minimize and accommodate shrinkage where it occurs. Gravity framing design will be discussed with an emphasis on two commonly overlooked topics: floor vibration and stacked bearing wall loads. Lateral design topics will include diaphragm design and flexibility analysis, shear and overturning force transfer mechanisms, and lateral displacement checks for stacked, multi-story wood-frame structures.

• Discuss wood’s shrinkage potential and causes, identify shrinkage effects on structural and non-structural components, and review detailing best practices to minimize the effects of shrinkage.
• Highlight structural implications of utilizing fire retardant-treated wood in exterior wall assemblies of Type III construction.
• Review floor vibration design checks and associated criteria for residential occupancies in wood-frame construction.
• Explain important lateral engineering issues—such as diaphragm flexibility, shear wall configuration options and design, and load path continuity—that must be considered to successfully design a mid-rise wood structure.

Presenter:

Jason Bahr, PE, WoodWorks Regional Director

Presenter Bio:

Jason has more than 20 years of experience as a structural engineer and a passion for sustainable building. He has a breadth of expertise in preparing structural calculations and design documents for educational projects, along with residential construction and remodeling experience. As a timber-frame designer early in his career, Jason gained an immense appreciation for the beauty and resilience of wood as a structural material. Always a creative problem solver and enthusiastic collaborator, he has worked with multidisciplinary teams throughout his career to move impactful projects forward. Jason holds combined Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Architectural Engineering from Kansas State University.

Fee:

SEAKM Member - $25.00

SEAKM Non-Member - $30.00

RSVP:

Please accept the calendar invitation or email Brent Perkins, SEAKM-WI Vice President, at [bperkins@dwase.com]bperkins@dwase.com

Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Location: Scotch & Sirloin (5325 E. Kellogg Dr., Wichita, KS 67218) 

Topic: Strong-Rod System - What to Take into Consideration for you Shear Wall Overturning and Uplift Design in Wood Structures

Abstract: 

This one-hour session, Strong-Rod System: What to Take into Consideration for Your Shear Wall Overturning and Uplift Design in Wood Structures, is designed for structural engineers working with wood-frame buildings. The session will focus on the integration of strong-rod systems in shear wall design to address critical overturning and uplift issues. Key topics include the behavior of shear walls under lateral forces, the role of strong-rods in enhancing stability, and the considerations for designing effective uplift and overturning resistance. Attendees will gain practical insights into material selection, connection detailing, and load distribution strategies to optimize the performance and safety of wood structures. 

Presenters: Silvia Dyer, M.S., P.E.

Bios: 

Sylvia has been part of the Simpson Strong-Tie engineering team for over eight years. She is a senior branch engineer with the southeast McKinney, Texas branch. She focuses on helping customers in the southeast as wall as Central and South America. She has an extensive background in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities with over 19-years of design experience of which five years was industrial experience in power plants in Texas.

THE FEBRUARY WICHITA CHAPTER MEETING IS POSTPONED TO WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26.

Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Location: Scotch & Sirloin (5325 E. Kellogg Dr., Wichita, KS 67218) 

Topic: Precast/Prestressed Concrete Buildings – Oh, The Possibilities!

Abstract: 

We will explore the innovative and versatile world of precast and prestressed concrete in building design. From residential and commercial structures to bridges and high-rise developments, precast and prestressed concrete offer immense potential for structural engineers looking to optimize performance, reduce construction time, and enhance sustainability. Through a series of case studies and practical examples, we will highlight key advantages such as improved load-bearing capacities, rapid assembly, and reduced lifecycle costs. Participants will gain valuable insights into the latest design trends, material advancements, and best practices for incorporating these technologies into modern structural engineering projects. Join us to unlock the full potential of precast and prestressed concrete in your next design challenge! 

Presenters: Tom Bergquist P.E. and John Oldland

Bios: 

Tom has over 28 years of experience in design and fabrication of precast/prestressed concrete structures and components.  He earned his B.S. in Civil Engineering at Kansas State University.  Tom is a Charter Member and a Past President of SEAKM, and he currently sits on the ACI 313 Committee which governs the design of concrete silos and stacking tubes.  Tom is a life-long resident of Newton, KS, and in his spare time enjoys entertaining grandkids, music, and exploring breweries.