December 2025 SEAOSD President's Report

Who Am I? Lessons from Les Misérables for Structural Engineers

Recently, my family attended a performance of Les Misérables, a story my children love for its powerful music and timeless themes. One moment in the play struck me deeply: Jean Valjean, a man living under an assumed identity after years as a convict, learns that another man has been arrested—mistaken for him. Valjean faces an agonizing decision: remain silent and preserve his freedom, or reveal the truth and risk losing everything he has built.

In that moment, Valjean wrestles with the question, “Who am I?” His choice is not easy. Doing the right thing comes with consequences, yet he ultimately chooses integrity over comfort.

As structural engineers, we may not face life-or-death decisions, but we do encounter moments that test our principles. Whether it’s navigating client expectations, managing project constraints, or addressing internal firm dynamics, we often stand at crossroads where the “easy” path conflicts with the “right” one. These decisions can feel uncomfortable—sometimes even risky—but they define our professional identity.

Our work impacts lives and communities. When we choose transparency over expediency, advocate for safety despite budget pressures, or speak up when something doesn’t feel right, we echo Valjean’s courage. Integrity is not always convenient, but it is essential to who we are as engineers.

So, the next time you face a difficult choice, ask yourself: Who am I? The answer lies not in words, but in the decisions we make—decisions that uphold the trust placed in our profession.

Jeremy T. Callister

SEAOSD President 2025-2026

P.S.

I hope that you all have a wonderful holiday season, and that you are able to join us in 2026, as we have many great events lined up:

• January - SE Exam Prep Discussion

• February - ASCE 41 in person training

• March - Student Night

• April - Golf Event

• May - Trivia Night

• June - SEE Awards