SEAOSC President's Message September 2026 - We Celebrated the “Why”
Fresh off the plane from the SEAOC Convention in Scottsdale, I am still energized by the conversations held and ideas shared last week. The Convention theme, “Celebrating the Why That Drives Us,” has stuck with me. My “why” goes beyond the projects on my desk, I am driven by the passion that exists in the people I interact with. The level of passion among those that I met or reconnected with in Arizona last week was remarkable. I felt that energy through the engaging roundtable lunch discussions, the conversations that continued into the foyer after technical seminars, the post-dinner chats about the future of the profession, and even the line dancing on the dance floor.
The technical programming was outstanding. From emerging technologies and innovative design approaches to discussions of functional recovery, Code updates, research projects, and case studies, we walked away with plenty of new ideas and concepts to bring back to the office.
I was particularly inspired by the conversations I heard during the Young Member, Student Outreach, and Pathways Committee meetings. Seeing the energy and enthusiasm of the next generation reinforced for me that the future of our profession is bright.
So, what is your “why”? I’d like to hear what drives you and ensure that SEAOSC is providing you with the resources, opportunities, and connections you need to fuel your passion. I also encourage you to ask your colleagues the same question: what drives them? The more we understand what motivates one another, the better we can support each other, and the stronger our profession becomes.
I hope to see you at our upcoming events:
- September 16 – November 18: Wood Design 101 online course
Recognizing that timber design isn’t offered at all universities, this online course is intended for those engineers that may not have had the opportunity to take the course in school, or for those simply looking for a refresher. Learn the fundamentals of wood design in this 10-week online course. The first session is fast approaching on September 16th, register now!
- September 16: ACI-SEAOSC joint luncheon
The LACMA Museum expansion project just received the SEAOC Award of Excellence and Project of the Year recognition at the Convention. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at this incredible project and hear directly from the Engineer of Record and concrete supplier about the innovative design and engineering and construction challenges. Register here.
- September 30: Committee Showcase
Learn about what our committees are working on this year and find your opportunity to contribute! Registration is open, sign up here.
One of the themes SEAOSC is embracing this year is the importance of building and growing partnerships beyond those within our own profession. Many of our programs and events this year will be focused on collaborating with organizations such as ACI, AIA, and BOMA. By strengthening our relationships with external partners, we not only expand our collective expertise but also elevate the voice and impact of structural engineers within the broader design and construction community. Look for these collaborative events on our calendar, starting with our September 16th luncheon with ACI where we’ll be learning about the incredible LACMA Museum Expansion.
With gratitude,
Daniel Fox
2026-2027 SEAOSC President