Dear Members,

In September, I shared with you SEAOSC’s mission statement and the ways that the association was actively advocating “in service to our community”.  I asked what the phrase “in service to our community”  looks like for you, and how SEAOSC can help you with that vision? As the months have unfolded, I have seen our members work together on a number of projects that I truly believe not only advance the profession of Structural Engineering but to strengthen our communities as well.

Over the past months I have also been fortunate to glimpse ways in  which our SEAOSC members carry the association mission into their personal lives and careers - stepping into leadership roles when the opportunity arises. Did you know that one of our members sits on the City of Alhambra Planning Commission and another participates in a City advisory body focusing on regional community resilience?  These individuals, with training and expertise in Structural Engineering, are getting involved in their communities, spurring innovation and growth while also giving a face to our industry. Other SEAOSC members have taken leadership roles on School Boards, Scouting organizations, and ACE Mentoring – all of which are providing influence and setting examples for future generations.

It is not just the community, organization, or institution that benefits when you volunteer for leadership positions,  but there are benefits for you as well:

• You have the opportunity to work with a diverse group of individuals with experiences, background and mindsets that may very well differ from the professionals you work with on a daily basis.

• It allows you to take on levels of responsibility, management, or leadership that may not be available to you in your office.  Ultimately allowing you to develop skills that will propel you in your professional career.

• It will grow your network, and possibly open new opportunities for you down the road.

These are all benefits I have experienced as I have navigated the executive positions of SEAOSC, and can honestly say for as much as I have given I have received it back two-fold.

And speaking of SEAOSC leadership, I am happy to share that all five individuals, nominated by the SEAOSC Nominating Committee have graciously accepted the invitation to join the 2022/23 Board.  We introduced you to Margaux Burkholder in last week’s email and Steven Shepherd in this one, and we will continue those introductions in the coming weeks so that you will also get to know Daniel Zepeda, Richard Byrd, and incoming Treasurer Garrett Mills.  Keep an eye on our weekly newsletters for this content.

I look forward to seeing all of you at our upcoming events, including the joint ACI/SEAOSC dinner in Fullerton next week.  Please don’t hesitate to say “hi” and share your leadership story with me.

Kelsey Anne Parolini, S.E.