
SEAONC Continuing Education Committee presents a seminar on
Deep Foundations Design Seminar: Code Requirements, Testing and Practical Applications
Date: Tuesday, April 28th, 2026
This comprehensive seminar offers structural engineers practical guidance on the design, selection, and testing of deep foundation systems. The program combines current code requirements with real-world design examples and geotechnical considerations to support effective foundation design for multi-story and seismic applications.
Lori’s presentation will address: 1) the uses of deep foundations, including reduction of settlement and seismic considerations, 2) deep foundation mechanics, including development of resistance to vertical and lateral loads, group effectiveness, and development of downdrag, 3) descriptions of various types of deep foundations and selection of pile types for differing conditions.
Steve’s presentation will cover: 1) The 2025 code requirements for deep foundations, found in Chapter 18 of the CBC and referenced provisions in ACI 318, including seismic detailing; 2) A discussion of pile load testing techniques and interpretation of results, including pseudo-static tests and dynamic tests; 3) A detailed design example of a pile foundation system for a multi-story concrete garage, including pile capacity selection, pile design for strength, lateral loading (building sliding resistance) and detailing; and 4) A discussion of three techniques for the design of a pile-supported grade beam for a moment-resisting frame system.
We look forward to seeing you at the seminar.
Agenda:
5:00 - 5:30 pm - Registration + Networking with food/drinks*
5:30 - 7:30 pm - Presentation
*Limited exhibitor opportunities available. Contact the main office for additional details.
Location: Virtual (Microsoft Teams meeting)
Cost:
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Virtual (Members Only)
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| Individual |
$180 |
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Firm registration (up to 5 attendees)
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$500
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Firm registration (more than 5 attendees)
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$800
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Registration closes Tuesday 4/28 at 2pm PST.
Speakers:
Lori Simpson

Lori A. Simpson is a Managing Principal at Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. She practices geotechnical engineering in the San Francisco Bay Area and the Pacific Northwest and has been with her firm for over 35 years. She is on Langan’s Board of Managers and Executive Committee. Lori is on the Board of Trustees and serves as the Secretary for the Deep Foundations Institute (DFI). She is an active member and Past Chair of the DFI Codes and Standards Technical Committee and has testified in public hearings in support of code change proposals to the Soils and Foundations chapter of the International Building Code.
Stephen Harris

Stephen Harris is an independent structural engineering consultant. He has practiced structural engineering for over 40 years. His experience includes design of new structures, seismic strengthening of existing structures, foundation design and structural evaluations. His foundation design experience includes hospitals throughout California, Bay Area buildings for Meta, Samsung and UCSF, as well as the air traffic control tower at SFO, Levi's Stadium, and the perimeter pile upgrade of the Millennium Tower.