With the rapid development of information technology, the digitization and intelligence of water resources and hydraulic engineering have become important trends in industry development. To deeply explore the innovative technologies and applications of digital technology in this field, and to promote academic exchanges and cooperation both domestically and internationally, the School of Civil Engineering and Transportation successfully hosted a specialized academic report meeting on digital technology for water resources and hydraulic engineering on July 28, 2024. The meeting was chaired by Professor Cheng Xiangju, head of the Water Resources Engineering Department, and attracted the participation of many teachers, students, and professionals both offline and online.

Figure 1 Dr. Zhang Jie’s presentation site

The report meeting specially invited Dr. Zhang Jie, a registered engineer in the United States and a senior engineer at the American water consulting company Carollo Engineers, as the keynote speaker. The content of the report was mainly divided into three parts: digital technology in water resources and hydraulic engineering, the core content of digital technology, and the collaborative innovation between the industrial and academic sectors in the United States. During the report, Dr. Zhang Jie elaborated in detail on digital twins, their applications, and development trends. He introduced computational fluid dynamics and machine learning computational methods, as well as the integration and innovation of new technologies and their product applications. By showcasing beautiful fluid simulation renderings, he presented the latest research achievements of Carollo Engineers to the participants, demonstrating the company's profound engineering and technical foundation. The report was rich in content and information, attracting active discussions among the audience. Participants actively asked questions, and Dr. Zhang Jie patiently answered everyone's inquiries, engaging in in-depth interactive exchanges with the audience.

Figure 2 Group photo of keynote speaker and attendees

This academic report not only provided a platform for learning and exchange for the participants but also offered new perspectives and ideas for research in related fields. Professor Cheng Xiangju stated that in the future, more academic activities related to the innovation and application of digital technology will be organized to promote academic exchanges and cooperation, and to advance the development of digital technology in water resources and hydraulic engineering.