CERCA showcases climate resilience leadership at the National Adaptation Forum

The Center for Engineering Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CERCA) at Carnegie Mellon University played a prominent role at the 2026 National Adaptation Forum, held May 11–14 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh. Through student research presentations, networking, and field experiences, CERCA illustrated how interdisciplinary research and community partnerships support climate adaptation.

The forum, a leading gathering on climate resilience, brought together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and community leaders to exchange strategies for climate challenges.

“Having the National Adaptation Forum in our home city was a tremendous opportunity for us to showcase the state-of-the-art resilience and adaptation work that CERCA is leading to ensure that our most vulnerable communities are resilient in the face of climate change,” said CERCA Director David Rounce.

Research highlights
Eight CERCA-affiliated students and post-doctoral researchers presented posters on regional resilience, climate adaptation, infrastructure, and community solutions, underscoring CERCA’s focus on preparing future researchers and practitioners through interdisciplinary collaboration and applied research.

Building connections
CERCA partnered with the Wilton E. Scott Institute for Energy Innovation to host a networking event at the start of the forum. Over 40 speakers, researchers, and practitioners from across the country exchanged ideas, built partnerships, and explored new approaches to climate resilience in engineering, policy, energy, and community planning.

Exploring nature-based solutions
David Rounce, along with UpstreamPGH, led a field trip through the Negley Run Watershed, showcasing Pittsburgh’s efforts to modernize stormwater management through green infrastructure. Over 30 attendees learned how restored waterways, floodplain improvements, and green stormwater systems can reduce flooding and enhance environmental and community outcomes.

Advancing resilience
By sharing research, fostering collaboration, and connecting attendees with local resilience efforts, CERCA helped bridge the gap between academic research and practical climate adaptation at the forum. The center unites researchers, faculty, students, and partners across disciplines to develop solutions that strengthen community resilience in the face of climate change, advancing strategies in infrastructure, energy, and water resources through its focus on research, education, and partnerships.