Dams are among the most vital components of our nation's infrastructure—quietly working behind the scenes to manage water flow, support inland navigation, and reduce devastating floods. When functioning properly, they protect millions of people and billions in property. But as climate extremes intensify and infrastructure ages, the risks of failure grow—making dam safety more critical than ever. For the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), ensuring these structures remain safe is not just an engineering task—it’s a mission to protect lives. Dan Ferris, Dam Safety Program Manager (DSPM) for the USACE Chicago District, is responsible for ensuring these essential structures continue to operate as designed.