Contribution to the knowledge of early geotechnics during the 20th century: Alec Westley Skempton

Abstract

Sir Alec Westley Skempton (4 June 1914–9 August 2001) was an English civil engineer and Professor of Soil Mechanics at Imperial College London from 1955 and Head of Department until he retired in 1981. He is often referred to as one of the founding fathers of soil mechanics in the UK and around the world and as one of the most important engineers of the 20th century. Skempton established the soil mechanics course at Imperial College London and not only helped to drive forward understanding of soil behaviours through his research and consultancy work, but also was a reference and inspiration for several engineering generations he taught. He was knighted at the New Year's Honours in 2000 for his services as engineer. He was also a notable contributor to the history of British civil engineering.