Specifier Q&A: Matthew Filcek

Name: Matthew Filcek
Title: Structural Fabrication Engineer
Company: Michigan Department of Transportation
Professional Designations: P.E.

Q: What is your field of focus and what particular products do you specialize in?

I received my master of science degree in civil engineering with an emphasis in structural engineering from Michigan State University. I began my career working for the Michigan Department of Transportation as a bridge design engineer for about seven years, then worked as a geotechnical engineer for two years before spending the last six years as MDOT’s structural fabrication engineer. MDOT’s Structural Fabrication Unit focuses on bridge and highway transportation-related structures such as the following non-prestressed precast concrete elements:

• Culverts
• MSE walls
• Sound walls
• Prefabricated bridge element systems (footings, piers, abutments and bridge decks)

Q: What are the benefits of using precast concrete products?

Precast concrete products give MDOT the ability to expedite project schedules, reduce work occurring on or near the roadway, and reduce user delay impacts to the public.

Filcek explained that using precast concrete products allows MDOT to expedite project schedules. Photo courtesy of Michigan Department of Transportation.

Q: What are some unique or interesting projects on which you specified precast concrete?

MDOT has many success stories with precast concrete, including precast bridge element systems used to accelerate bridge construction. One particular project featured a precast abutment that included voids to allow pile foundations to pass through. The precast abutment was connected to the pile foundation using ultra high performance concrete.

Q: How have you seen precast concrete evolve? How do you see it continuing to impact your work? 

We have witnessed precast concrete evolve to include options for more geometries, higher strengths, longer spans and improved durability. Precast concrete continues to be a solution for accelerated construction as MDOT strives to provide the highest quality integrated transportation services for economic benefit and improved quality of life.