Apply to Pathways

Applications Now Closed for the 2026 Cohort

SEAOC is pleased to present an opportunity for structural engineering students and early-career professionals to participate in the fifth SE Pathways Cohort kicking off at the 2026 SEAOC Convention in Scottsdale, AZ, August 26-28.

The Cohort will meet with several members of the 2022 - 2025 cohorts in continued conversations between engineering students, early-career professionals and other practicing engineers to share ideas on enhancing the pathways into and through the profession of structural engineering in California.

With activities during the convention and throughout the following year, the Pathways Program provides opportunities for aspiring or new engineers to network with colleagues and practicing professionals throughout the state of California; learn key issues impacting the SE profession, including the need to improve workforce equity and diversity; and meet trade representatives who may assist them in future practice. Most importantly, cohort members will help shape the future of Structural Engineering in California.

Convention Benefits and opportunities include:

Full access to the 2026 Convention
At least two tracks of technical subjects
Industry Receptions & Meals with Colleagues

Sponsorship Information:

SEAOC sponsorship for selected student participants includes:

Full convention registration
Three (3) nights of hotel accommodations
A travel stipend (amount TBD)

Please note: SEAOC sponsorship may not cover all expenses related to convention attendance. If financial considerations are a concern, we still strongly encourage you to apply. The Pathways Committee will make reasonable efforts to support selected participants on a case-by-case basis.

Early-Career Professional Sponsorship Information
SEAOC sponsorship for selected early-career professional participants includes:

Full convention registration
Two (2) nights of hotel accommodations

Please note: SEAOC sponsorship may not cover all expenses related to convention attendance including travel or additional hotel nights. If you are employed, the SE Pathways Committee can provide sample language and general guidance to assist you in requesting professional development support from your employer.

If financial considerations are a concern, we still strongly encourage you to apply. The Pathways Committee will make reasonable efforts to support selected participants on a case-by-case basis; however, SEAOC cannot guarantee additional funding or secure financial support on your behalf.

Special SE Pathways Cohort Activities Include:

An Industry Mentor
Private Reception with Cohort members and Industry Mentors
Participation in Pathways Workshops & Roundtable Conversations
Invitation to YMF Speed Mentoring Session
A Network of Individuals in the SE profession

Eligibility

SEAOC encourages interested Students and Early Career Professionals, especially individuals belonging to groups traditionally underrepresented in the profession, to apply to join the 2026 SE Pathways Cohort.

Student Applicants

Be in at least their third year of undergraduate engineering
Have a Structural Engineering Emphasis in their Studies

Early Career Professional Applicants

Be within their first three years of structural engineering industry involvement and
Be members of SEAOC via membership in SEAOSC, SEAOSD, SEAOCC or SEAONC.

Instructions

Applications for participation in the annual Pathways cohort are accepted each year during March. Applications are reviewed by the SE Pathways Committee and cohort members are notified of acceptance in early May.

The 2026 SE Pathways Cohort application opens February 20, 2026

Application deadline is March 29, 2026

Apply Now