Forrest Masters

Forrest J. Masters is a distinguished professor and academic leader at the University of Florida's Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering. He currently serves as the Interim Dean and is a Professor of Civil and Coastal Engineering in the Engineering School of Sustainable Infrastructure & Environment.1

Academic Background and Expertise

Dr. Masters holds a Ph.D. from the University of Florida, which he obtained in 2004.1 His primary research focus is on hurricane effects on the built environment, and he has extensive experience in this field.1 He has conducted field experiments in 36 named storms, including recent Category 4 and 5 hurricanes.1

Research Contributions

Forrest Masters has made significant contributions to wind engineering research:

• He created one of seven NSF Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure (NHERI) experimental facilities for studying the damaging effects of extreme wind events on civil infrastructure.12
• His research has been supported by 50 grants from various sources, including state, federal, and private entities.1
• Dr. Masters has published over 100 papers in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings.1

Recognition and Awards

His work has earned him several notable recognitions:

• In 2014, he received the junior International Association of Wind Engineering award, the highest honor in his field for individuals under 40.1
• He was awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award in Mitigation at the National Hurricane Conference.1

Professional Involvement

Dr. Masters is actively involved in professional organizations and committees:

• He serves on the Board of the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes.1
• He recently served on the NIST National Advisory Committee on Windstorm Impact Reduction.1

Throughout his career, Forrest Masters has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the field of wind engineering and improving infrastructure resilience in the face of extreme weather events.