The Charles E. Via, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering welcomes Thomas Carnes as its new lab manager and structural testing engineer.

Carnes joins the department after completing his doctoral studies in civil engineering at Virginia Tech, where he served as a graduate research assistant and graduate teaching assistant from 2022 to 2026. In his new role, he will support structural engineering research and testing efforts while helping advance the department’s laboratory capabilities.

As lab manager and structural testing engineer, Carnes will provide technical support and consultation to faculty and students on experimental design, test setup, strong-floor coordination, and technical reporting. He will also train and supervise students in laboratory equipment operation, safety protocols, and test execution, helping ensure students gain hands-on experience with advanced structural testing systems.

Carnes will contribute to the department’s research and external engagement efforts by leading engineering research activities, working with faculty and sponsors to develop project proposals and establish research contracts, and helping promote the capabilities of the department’s structural testing laboratories. He will also oversee the maintenance and management of critical testing equipment, including MTS actuators, sensors, and data acquisition systems, while coordinating the use of the department’s strong floor for research projects.

In addition to supporting day-to-day laboratory operations, Carnes will help maintain laboratory accreditation and safety compliance. His responsibilities include coordinating equipment calibrations, overseeing biannual Environmental Health and Safety audits, and maintaining records for fixed laboratory assets.

Prior to joining Virginia Tech, Carnes gained professional experience as an associate engineer with the Mahoning County Engineer’s Office in Ohio, where he worked on public infrastructure projects. He also completed engineering internships with Simmers Crane Design & Service and Kokosing, gaining valuable experience in design, construction, and field engineering.

Carnes earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Youngstown State University and a master’s degree in civil engineering from The University of Akron before pursuing his Ph.D. at Virginia Tech.