SEAOSC is delighted to announce that Traci Wong, PE, Principal at Miyamoto, will join the SEAOSC board for the 2024-26 term. Traci’s extensive experience and passion for structural engineering make her an invaluable addition to the board, and we look forward to her contributions in the coming years.
Traci’s relationship with SEAOSC began over 25 years ago when she joined the student chapter at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). Her decision to join was inspired by the collaboration and fellowship she observed among structural engineering professionals at various stages of their careers. Traci reflects, "I’ve stayed a member because I’ve been enriched by many of my colleagues who have become friends, resources, teachers, advocates, and industry leaders. I believe that when we elevate and support each other, we strengthen and evolve our profession. I will continue as a member in hopes that I can give back the support and integrity I was lucky enough to experience and grow from."
Traci’s path into the structural engineering industry was ultimately motivated by the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. She recalls, "My school bus stop on Olympic and Barrington in West Los Angeles was directly in front of the 6-story L- L-shaped concrete frame Barrington Building. Before it was quickly demolished, I spent some time looking at the collapsed 2nd story, the prominent X-cracks in the columns, and the crushed corner columns and exposed rebar. The building was not much older than me and I was fascinated by the “why” and how a newer building could sustain that extent of damage. My friend’s house slid off the foundation and another’s apartment was unsafe to return to. I witnessed the impact of the devastation and wanted to be part of a solution, so I chose structural engineering as a major and never looked back."
As Traci steps into her role as a SEAOSC board member, her drive to contribute to safer, more resilient buildings and communities will undoubtedly enrich SEAOSC and the broader structural engineering community. We are excited to welcome her and we look forward to the positive impact she will make during her term.
