Shared Learning to Explore the Philosophies, Policies and Practices of Engineering: The Case of the Atlantic Coast Pipeline

The transition to natural gas for electricity generation and other energy needs in the United States initiated plans for the expansion of pipeline infrastructure to deliver the fuel from the point of extraction to the point of use. Plans for new infrastructure have raised questions about the ways in which engineers contribute to those projects and engineers’ responsibility to the public. Evidence from a case study on the Atlantic Coast Pipeline addresses the question: How can energy infrastructure investments balance requirements for reliable and affordable energy with broader societal and environmental considerations? This chapter draws upon the theory put forward by Erin Cech on the cultures of disengagement, and turns to the philosophy of shared learning as a means to reconnect the social and technical. Our findings show how shared learning was facilitated within the interdisciplinary research team and between the research team and community members and participants. The case study demonstrates that authentic relationship building and trust are foundational to the re-engaging cultures of engineering with the social and environmental dimensions.