CV

Education

Large-scale testing, finite element modeling and correlation, nonlinear dynamics of structural systems, structural vibrations, modal analysis.

Nonlinear structural analysis, advanced seismic design, base isolation and supplemental damping, advanced steel/concrete/masonry design, structural system testing and model correlation.

Blast-resistant design and analysis, structural fire engineering, building systems.

Technical Experience

• Led the testing of 19 specimens on four full-scale beam-column subassemblies utilizing DuraFuse SMF connections for new construction and retrofit, following the AISC Seismic Provisions.
• Correlated two FEMs of an electrical system in ABAQUS and OpenSees to run NLTHA quantifying seismic risk reduction across designs of tuned-mass dampers and isolation devices.
• Planned, instrumented, and processed acceleration data from a full-scale shake table test of a three-story steel frame building; performed system identification to validate a FEM and analytical model.

• Investigated electrical chatter and extracted modal properties of a single pin-receptacle system using laser vibrometers and tri-axial accelerometers via roving hammer tests.
• Simulated simplified impact interaction through state-space formulation and nonlinear contacts in MATLAB.

• Organized a technical program for 12 undergraduates on microcontrollers and 3D printing for aerospace projects: miniature UAVs, solid propellant rockets, and propulsion testing stands.

• Performed calculation checks on elevation and stationing for a precast reinforced-concrete bridge.
• Quantified and verified reinforcement bar placement for precast bridge footers and web pieces.

• Used Python to model and calculate road curves and elevation profiles for new roads.

• Created forms to evaluate loan risk for the Small Business Development program.

Teaching Experience

Teaching Assistant

• Testing and model validation of composite wing.

• Delivered supplemental instruction to over 150 students: office hours, problem-solving sessions, study materials, exam proctoring, grade maintenance.

• Prepared and held weekly labs for 3 sections of 120 students on applying MATLAB to structural engineering.

• Reviewed and commented on 150+ students’ FEA reports covering beams and shells in modal analysis, model reduction, composite materials, buckling analysis, and topology optimization.

Research Experience

• Orchestrated the erection of four full-scale beam-column subassemblages testing 19 designs for new construction and retrofitted SMF with DuraFuse moment connections, following the AISC Cyclic Loading Protocol for qualifying seismic connections.
• Investigated the behavior of three beam-column subassemblies in monotonic push-up and pull-down tests with restored pre-Northridge earthquake welded-flange, bolted-web SMF connections.

• Modeled a high-fidelity FEM of an electrical component in ABAQUS and OpenSees, considering linear and nonlinear hysteretic connection behavior and global/local modal properties.
• Analyzed seismic risk reduction for electrical cabinets via NLTHA across base isolation and tuned-mass-damper designs for given floor response spectra within a nuclear power plant.

• Created a database of dynamic properties of vibration-isolated and rigidly-fixed nonstructural components from AC156 shake table qualification testing reports.

• Designed and constructed six modular concrete-steel floor decks for the building’s main diaphragm; planned and installed data acquisition sensors across three floors.
• Conducted system identification on a full-scale three-story steel frame building with three LFRS using impact tests and multi-directional white noise at UCSD’s large high-performance outdoor shake table.

• Performed modal analysis on a model nonstructural component with various flexible angles, subjected to white noise and ground motions.

Leadership Experience

• Organized events for UCSD Masters students (shake table visits, resume workshops, office tours) to acclimate students to the San Diego structural engineering workforce.
• Mentored an undergraduate competition team on numerical modeling, construction, and testing of a 6 ft balsa wood miniature building model for miniature shake table testing.

• Presented on the UCSD Structural Engineering department at external events and open houses.
• Developed the Structural Engineering Survival Handbook for graduate students.

• Procured materials, designed and analyzed numerical models, created the construction schedule, tested and presented the building model during competition.

• Organized communication between the executive board, advisors, and active members on an ongoing water distribution project in Nicaragua.

Honors & Awards

• DesignSafe Academy and NHERI Hackathon, 1st Place - 6/2022
• Structural Engineering Distinguished Fellowship - 7/2021
• 2021 San Diego ASCE Pipeline & Environmental Committee Scholarship - 6/2021
• PCI Big Beam Contest, 3rd Place Overall & Best Report - 10/2020
• EERI Seismic Design Competition, Spirit of the Competition - 3/2020
• Harry Haley Ousey Scholarship - 6/2016-6/2020

Additional

Software: Python, ABAQUS, SAP2000, OpenSees, Mathcad, MATLAB, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, RISA Certifications: Engineer in Training