SURI: Pedro Robertson ’27

The Summer Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI) is a program offered by the VMI Center for Undergraduate Research (VCUR), which provides cadets a unique opportunity to delve into high-level research that relates to their degree path. It consists of cadet-led research under the direction of a faculty advisor. In this series, learn more about cadet research, their process, and how their advisors played a role.  

Name: Pedro Robertson  

Department: Civil Engineering 

Research Project/Topic: Engineered Bridges in Rockbridge County: A Preliminary Review 

Advisor: Col. Matthew Swenty 

In a few sentences, describe your SURI project in lay terms. 

The goal of my SURI project was to investigate how Rockbridge County reflects the history of engineering, not only in the United States but in the world. The main goal was to see, in person, how engineering techniques have stood the test of time and where engineers have faltered and where they have succeeded.  

What made you choose this topic? 

Blending engineering and history seemed like it could be an interesting way to begin the process for my honors thesis. Moreover, Rockbridge County has a deep history and diving into that history with an engineering lens created a very interesting story.  

What kind of personal connection do you have to this topic? 

As a rising 1st Class cadet, I have been deeply enshrouded in the history of VMI. Extending this into my engineering studies and learning more about the history of the county as a whole has made it much easier to work on this project. 

How much time will you devote/have you devoted to conducting research this summer? 

Some days were spent completely outside looking at bridges for three to four hours, while some days just consisted of sorting through photos and data.  

Why do you think the SURI program is beneficial at VMI? 

It offers time to develop a connection with your work where you aren’t plagued by the minute-by-minute schedule of VMI whether it be the Rat Line, briefs, classes, etc. Additionally, it offers a time to get closer with faculty and learn more than you ever could in one class. 

What do you hope to gain from SURI? 

I gained a deep knowledge and understanding of not just the bridges in the county, but of the county in general and how everything has developed over time.