CHARLES K. ERDEY, Dr. - Ing., SE, PE, has taught structural engineering subjects at California State University, Long Beach, and Northern Arizona University, practiced consulting engineering and forensic engineering, and done extensive research, dating back to the 1960s, on limit state design and performance of structures. He has published numerous papers for international and U.S. periodicals and has been awarded patents on advanced structural systems and on improved testing equipment for high-strength nonmetallic engineering materials. He has been an active participant in the Joint Work Group on Seismic Connections of the International Institute of Welding, is a chartered member of the Structural Engineering Institute, member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, and has conducted seminars and written manuals for the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) on seismic and wind design for steel structures.