Behind every Iowa DOT research innovation is a real human being dedicated to helping ideas become reality. Here you can learn more about the Iowa DOT Research staff members and what makes them tick.
Name: Brian Worrel, Research Program Manager, Research & Analytics Bureau. Number of years in this role: 5
What do you do in the Research & Analytics Bureau?
As the Research Program Manager, I oversee and coordinate all of the individual research programs so that we’re all working together and moving in the same direction.
I also serve as the voice for Iowa on several national transportation research initiatives, including AASHTO’s Research Advisory Committee.
Have you always been drawn to research? What has your career path been like?
I started my career with Iowa DOT while in grad school, with a job as a bridge rating engineer.
I worked in the Bridges and Structures Bureau for 10 years before moving to research.
What’s your favorite part of your work?
I really like how the research bureau touches every section of the DOT.
The nature of our work means we come in contact with every bureau and section and get the chance to understand how each plays into the bigger picture.
As an engineer I love learning; working in the research bureau means I’m always discovering something new.
The best part of my work is when we get to work with a new individual or bureau that hasn’t been involved with us before, and we spark an interest and work together towards a successful first project.
We help someone see the value of the research and make it worth the effort for them.
What initiative on the horizon do you think will make a big impact for the research bureau?
I’m excited for our new ideas website and the new level of engagement that we can achieve – both internally at DOT and externally with our stakeholders, industry partners, and with the public.
What do you like to do in your time off?
I like playing board games with family and friends. I also enjoy spending time outside, and I could watch pretty much any sci-fi movie or TV show.
Updating permissions settings
Updating permissions setting
The setting changes you made requires updating permissions setting and might take a few minutes.
Completed successfully
Updates Required
Estimated time left
Updates Completed
Incompatible Browser
Supported browsers are Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, IE 11+, Opera, and Safari.