In 1956, William A. Klinger published an influential article in AGC’s Constructor Magazine, advocating for a comprehensive construction engineering curriculum that integrated civil and architectural engineering with hands-on practices. He traveled to universities like Iowa State, helping establish the curriculum, which would go on to shape the future of construction education nationwide. Klinger's work laid the foundation for modern construction engineering programs, particularly at Iowa State University.

In 1956, W.A. Klinger took a groundbreaking step by using Iowa's first Swedish climbing crane for the construction of the Iowa Memorial Union at the University of Iowa. This innovative construction technique allowed for efficient vertical building and was a crucial part of the expansion of the Student Union. Klinger’s forward-thinking approach helped transform the landscape of Iowa City’s campus, making the Union a central hub for student life and activities, a role it continues to serve today.