Makarand (Mark) Hastak, PhD, head of Construction Engineering and Management (CEM) in Purdue University’s College of Engineering discusses CEM’s extensive, cutting-edge role in all aspects of infrastructure, pointing out how the definition of that familiar term has broadened. CEM’s unique approach to the combination of research and teaching includes special engagement among alumni and other knowledgeable practitioners, industry, and peer academic institutions, as well as graduate and undergraduate students.