CE Faculty Feature - Dr. Mark Russell

Dr. Mark Russell, P.E.
Lecturer
Construction

Background  

Dr. Mark Russell, an Orlando, FL native, brings to
UNM a diverse background in engineering. After graduating from high school, Dr. Russell joined the Navy and subsequently attended the University of Central Florida, where he obtained a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. He went on to pursue an M.S. in Environmental Engineering from Old Dominion University and an MBA from New Hampshire College. Dr. Russell worked for the U.S. Navy Civil Engineering Corps for a number of years, garnering extensive experience in the construction industry. He retired from the Navy after 20 years, after which he took on a position with URS International, Inc. as a contract manager. He then went on to obtain his Ph.D. in Design, Construction, and Planning from the University of Florida.

Research Interests  

Dr. Russell’s research interests include sustainable construction and building rating systems. His emphasis includes analysis based on life cycle assessments with a particular interest in carbon foot-printing. Here at UNM, he teaches Engineering Economy (CE 350) and Cost Estimating (CE 376). Regarding his focus on sustainable building, he has this to say:  

“I believe in taking a more practical approach to sustainability. Despite the arguments of whether global climate change is influenced by manmade activities, we owe it to ourselves to do everything possible to create the most sustainable facilities possible. As a sustainable building should conserve energy, reduce water consumption, and minimize the use of raw materials, it makes sound business sense to promote activities that follow these premises providing that the alternative techniques are not cost prohibitive. Thus, my interest in the construction industry has focused on finding better ways to develop sustainable practices that are economically feasible for clients.”  

Outside of the Classroom  

Dr. Russell, new to life as a New Mexican, is thoroughly enjoying the Land of Enchantment. People are friendly and outgoing, he points out, and there is plenty to do outdoors. When he’s not working, Dr. Russell enjoys woodworking, hiking, riding his motorcycle, and sailing – albeit, sailing has been difficult to come by in the desert. Over the summer, Dr. Russell skippered a 32-foot boat, sailing around the Caribbean. He also enjoyed a couple of weeks in Ecuador visiting family.