HUGH BROOKS, JR., S.E. 1926–2026

Hugh Brooks, Jr., S.E., a pioneering figure in structural engineering and tilt-up concrete construction, died peacefully on April 8, 2026, at his home in Newport Beach, California. He was 99.42  years old (engineering humor).

Hugh earned his B.S. in Civil Engineering from USC in 1950 and passed the California Structural Engineering examination in 1957, the same year he founded Hugh Brooks Associates Structural Engineers. Over a 40-year career, he designed more than 3,000 commercial structures, with particular expertise in tilt-up construction, precast concrete systems, and parking structures.

Contributions to Tilt-Up Construction

Hugh was a founding member of the Tilt-Up Concrete Association (TCA) in 1986 and served on ACI Committee 551 (Tilt-Up Concrete Construction). His Tilt-Up Design & Construction Manual, first published in 1988, went through six editions and became the definitive reference for tilt-up design—what many called the "Bible" of the industry. The TCA acquired the manual in 2002, building subsequent editions on the foundation Hugh established. He received the TCA's highest honor, the Peter Courtois Memorial Award, in 1996.

Following the 1971 San Fernando earthquake, Hugh directly observed failures in wall-to-roof anchorage in older tilt-up structures, contributing to the corrective code changes of the 1970s that strengthened panel connections. His involvement with SEAOC and SEAOSC technical committees helped translate practical field observations into codified design improvements, particularly for slender wall provisions.

Publications

Hugh authored works that remain in active use today:

• Tilt-Up Design & Construction Manual (1988; six editions)
• Basics of Retaining Wall Design (1996; now in 11th edition), co-authored with John P. Nielsen beginning with the 9th edition
• Illustrated Encyclopedic Dictionary of Building & Construction Terms (Prentice-Hall, 1976), cited by the U.S. Court of Appeals as an authoritative source
• Encyclopedia of Building & Construction Terms (Prentice-Hall, 1980; updated 2017 edition with J.P. Anderson)
• Building & Construction Resource Directory (1992)

Software Development

Hugh developed RetainPro, one of the first widely-adopted retaining wall design software programs, in the mid-1990s. The software began as a companion tool to his retaining wall book and became an industry standard for preliminary design. All seven RetainPro earth-retention modules were eventually integrated into the ENERCALC Structural Engineering Library, developed by his son Michael Brooks, S.E.

Innovation

Beyond his consulting practice, Hugh was an inventor and systems innovator. He held U.S. Patent 3,082,887 for the "Marinalift" boat storage system (1963), an automated crane-based dry stack concept that presaged modern automated marina storage. In the early 1960s, he developed the "Flip-Slab" construction system for precasting roof deck panels on-site—an early experiment in hybrid precast/steel construction.

Awards and Recognition

• Peter Courtois Memorial Award, Tilt-Up Concrete Association (1996)
• Steve Barnes Award, Structural Engineers Association of Southern California (2015)
• Consulting member, ACI 551.2R-15: Design Guide for Tilt-Up Concrete Panels

Hugh was a frequent speaker at World of Concrete, TCA conferences, and SEAOSC seminars. He conducted tilt-up seminars in Anaheim, San Francisco, Portland, Las Vegas, Indianapolis, and at Purdue University. To sharpen his presentation skills, he was a Toastmasters member for nearly a decade.

Personal

Hugh served in the U.S. Navy during WWII, training in radar and electronics before assignment to the USS Hancock. He was honorably discharged in 1946 as Electronics Technician 3rd Class.

He is survived by his son Michael Dyer Brooks, S.E., founder of ENERCALC; his brother John Dyer Brooks; his companion Marilyn Petrivich; and the many engineers whose practice was shaped by his writings, software, and mentorship. He was predeceased by his wife Becky Hall Brooks in 2020.

As structural engineers, our work is grounded in codes—but our impact extends far beyond simply following them. Codes represent our collective knowledge, lessons learned, and commitment to public safety. They evolve because of the insight, expertise, and advocacy of professionals like you.

April is an opportunity to focus on how we, as a community, stay ahead of these changes and actively shape the future of our profession.

At SEAOSC, we are closely engaged in tracking updates to building codes, monitoring policy developments, and contributing to discussions that influence how our industry moves forward. Through our committees, technical programs, and partnerships with local jurisdictions, we aim to ensure that our members are not only informed—but prepared.

But staying current is only part of the responsibility.

As leaders in structural engineering, we also play a role in advancing best practices. Whether it’s participating in code committees, engaging with building officials, contributing to technical resources, or sharing lessons learned from projects, each of us has the ability to influence the direction of our profession.

Advocacy is not limited to formal channels. It happens in everyday interactions:

• When we collaborate with design teams to improve constructability

• When we engage with plan check engineers to align on intent

• When we mentor younger engineers and pass on sound judgment

• When we speak up to promote safety, clarity, and innovation

SEAOSC provides a platform for these efforts—bringing together diverse perspectives to strengthen both our technical standards and our professional community.

This month, I encourage you to stay engaged:

• Attend a technical committee meeting

• Participate in code discussions

• Share your experience and insights with peers

• Consider how your voice can contribute to shaping best practices

Our profession continues to evolve, and with that evolution comes both responsibility and opportunity. By staying informed and involved, we ensure that structural engineering remains resilient, forward-thinking, and rooted in excellence.

Thank you for your continued commitment to SEAOSC and to advancing our profession.

With appreciation,

Maria Mohammed
President, SEAOSC

On March 11, over 100 SEAOSC engineers gathered at Universal Sheraton to celebrate the next generation of emerging engineers over dinner, connections, and a lively message from the founder, president, and CEO of CSI, Ashraf Habibullah.
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"This night shows how important it is to engage our students and get them excited about entering the profession of structural engineering," shared Maria Mohammed, president of SEAOSC.

Throughout his speech, Habibullah emphasized the life-saving impact of structural engineering, the importance of building friendships within the profession, and the value that a new generation of engineers brings through fresh perspectives on the field’s future.

"We're here to celebrate all of you," he shared. "This is one of the most incredible events for me; it's so much fun to be around so many young professionals, especially students."

At Emerging Engineers Night, the SEAOSC Foundation awarded scholarships to Alton Wu, Brandon Hluchan, Christian Corona, Elaine Kaddis, Angel Flores, Jedric Uganiza, Jesus Vergara, Katherine Name, Malia Haug, Nailea Vera-Rodriguez, Sarp Gursel, and Belen Martinez Espinosa.

This event was made possible thanks to sponsors CSI, Nucor, and True North Compliance Services.

See Event Photos Here.

As March is Women’s History Month, I’m taking this opportunity to recognize the extraordinary contributions of women throughout history and to celebrate the impact women continue to make in our profession today.

Structural engineering has long been shaped by innovation, resilience, and leadership. Women engineers have helped design our skylines, strengthen our communities, advance seismic research, and mentor the next generation — often while overcoming barriers that required not only technical excellence, but courage and persistence.

At SEAOSC, we are proud of the talented women who serve on our Board, lead our committees, contribute to our technical programs, and elevate our profession every day. Their leadership strengthens our organization and broadens our perspective.

But celebration alone is not enough.

Women’s History Month also reminds us of our responsibility — to foster inclusion, to expand opportunity, and to ensure that structural engineering is a profession where all talented individuals can thrive. That means:

• Supporting equitable pathways to leadership
• Creating inclusive professional spaces
• Mentoring and sponsoring emerging engineers
• Challenging outdated assumptions
• Building workplaces where diverse voices are heard and valued

Engineering is fundamentally about solving complex problems. Diverse teams solve problems better. When we cultivate environments where different perspectives are welcomed and respected, we elevate both our profession and the communities we serve.

This month, I encourage each of us to take action:

• Recognize and thank a woman leader or colleague who has influenced your career
• Invite a young engineer to participate in SEAOSC
• Support mentorship and outreach efforts
• Reflect on how we can continue building a profession that reflects the diversity of our communities

The future of structural engineering depends on the strength of our talent — and talent exists everywhere. Our role as leaders is to ensure opportunity does too.

Thank you to the women who engineer, who lead, who innovate, and who inspire. SEAOSC is stronger because of you.

With appreciation,

Maria Mohammed
President, SEAOSC

February is a meaningful month for our profession as we celebrate Engineers Week—a time to recognize the impact engineers have on society and to invest intentionally in the next generation of structural engineers. At SEAOSC, mentorship and professional growth have long been central to our mission, and this month offers an opportunity to highlight the people and programs that bring those values to life.

Across our community, SEAOSC members are mentoring young professionals, supporting students, and creating pathways into the profession through technical education, leadership development, and outreach. This year, we are building on that commitment through the launch of the SEAOSC Leadership Training Program, designed to support current and future committee leaders by strengthening essential skills such as vision-setting, time management, communication, and mentorship. The program reflects our belief that effective leadership—rooted in technical excellence and service—is critical to the long-term strength of our association and profession.

I am continually inspired by stories from our members—experienced engineers who take the time to teach, listen, and encourage; young professionals who step into leadership roles; and students who bring curiosity and fresh perspective to our work. Programs such as student chapter engagement, Pathways, and our leadership training efforts reflect SEAOSC’s commitment to growth at every stage of an engineer’s career.

As we celebrate Engineers Week, I encourage you to reflect on the mentors who shaped your own path—and to consider how you can pay that forward. Whether through formal programs or informal guidance, mentorship remains one of the most powerful tools we have to sustain technical excellence, strengthen our community, and ensure a resilient future.

Maria Mohammed
President, SEAOSC

As we begin a new year, January offers us a natural moment to pause, reflect, and—most importantly—look ahead. The work of structural engineers is foundational to the safety, resilience, and vitality of our communities, and the year ahead presents meaningful opportunities for SEAOSC to continue advancing our profession in service of the public.

In the coming months, SEAOSC will focus on strengthening member engagement, supporting professional growth, and expanding our impact through technical excellence, advocacy, and collaboration. As you saw in last week’s newsletter, SEAOSC is planning a robust calendar of technical education programs that address upcoming code changes, emerging engineering challenges, and events that bring our members together to share our experiences and learn from one another. These efforts are rooted in our long-standing commitment to advancing structural engineering knowledge and practice.

This year will also bring opportunities for members to get involved beyond attending events. Our committees play a critical role in shaping SEAOSC’s initiatives—from technical standards and education to outreach, advocacy, and resiliency. I encourage you to consider adding SEAOSC to your New Year resolution and renew your commitment by participating in a committee, mentoring emerging engineers, or contributing your expertise to our programs and policy efforts.

As we plan for the year ahead, I invite you to engage with SEAOSC intentionally—whether by reconnecting with colleagues, sharing your technical expertise, or helping shape the future of our profession. Together, we can ensure that SEAOSC remains a trusted voice for structural engineers and a leader in advancing safe, resilient communities throughout Southern California.

I look forward to working with all of you in the year ahead.

As we reach the close of another busy and meaningful year, December offers us a rare moment of pause — an opportunity to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together and the lessons we will carry into the future. This has been a year shaped by collaboration, renewed engagement, and a shared commitment to strengthening our profession and the communities we serve.

Across our committees, events, and educational programs, SEAOSC members have shown remarkable dedication this year. From advancing conversations on seismic safety and functional recovery to expanding student outreach, updating technical resources, and strengthening partnerships across the AEC industry, your efforts have made a tangible impact. Each achievement — whether large or small — represents the collective strength of volunteers who care deeply about the future of structural engineering.

I hope you each take a moment to celebrate what you have contributed this year. Our profession often moves at a pace where accomplishments blur into deadlines, and we rarely pause to acknowledge the significance of the work we do. But your designs, your advocacy, your mentorship, and your commitment to public safety all matter. They shape safer, more resilient communities every day.

As we transition into the holiday season, I also want to encourage everyone to find time for rest and restoration. A new year awaits us with new challenges, fresh opportunities, and continued momentum for our profession — and we will meet it best when we are recharged, grounded, and prepared.

Thank you for your expertise, your energy, and the generosity you bring to SEAOSC. It is an honor to serve alongside you. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the coming year.

Wishing you a peaceful, joyful, and restorative holiday season.

Maria Mohammed
President, SEAOSC

As we move into November — a month that naturally invites reflection and gratitude — I’m reminded of how interconnected our work as structural engineers truly is. The code changes we discussed last month represent more than updates to design equations; they embody the collective knowledge, experience, and innovation of our community. They remind us that progress in our profession is always a shared effort — one that depends on engagement, collaboration, and the courage to adapt.

This season, I’m especially thankful for the countless volunteers across SEAOSC who contribute their time and expertise to our committees and initiatives. Their work reviewing new code provisions, organizing educational sessions, mentoring students, and engaging with public agencies continues to strengthen our association and elevate the structural engineering profession as a whole.

As we approach the end of the year, our focus turns to implementation — how we translate evolving codes and best practices into meaningful action in our offices, classrooms, and communities. SEAOSC will continue to support you through this process with upcoming seminars, committee collaborations, and resources designed to help members navigate the new code cycle confidently and effectively.

But our progress doesn’t stop at compliance. It’s about connection — between the science of what we design and the people who inhabit those spaces. As we continue conversations around functional recovery, resilient design, and community preparedness, let’s keep in mind the larger purpose behind our work: creating a built environment that not only stands strong but enables communities to thrive after disaster.

As we head into the holiday season, I invite each of you to take a moment to reflect on how your individual efforts — on projects, in committees, or in mentorship — contribute to that shared mission. Every calculation, every discussion, and every volunteer hour strengthens the foundation of our profession. Together, we are not only adapting to change — we are shaping the future of structural engineering in Southern California.

Thank you for all that you do. I look forward to continuing this journey with you into the new year — grounded in purpose, guided by collaboration, and inspired by the resilience of our community.

Warmly,

Dear SEAOSC Members,

As we step into October, our focus turns toward the future of our profession through the lens of building codes. Code development may not always capture headlines, but it is the foundation of our work as structural engineers. Every few years, the cycle of updates challenges us to reexamine assumptions, integrate new research, and ensure that our built environment continues to reflect the best available knowledge.

The upcoming changes to the California Building Code and related standards bring both opportunity and responsibility. From refinements in seismic design to evolving performance-based provisions, these updates are more than technical adjustments — they represent our collective progress toward safer, more resilient communities.

SEAOSC is committed to helping our members stay ahead of these changes. Our technical committees are actively reviewing proposed provisions and preparing resources to support your practice. Our Fall Dinner meeting presentation on October 15 introduces the structural changes in the new California Building Code, followed by our November 12 Winter Technical Summit taking a deeper dive into each material change. 

Your voice also matters in shaping these updates. I encourage each of you to participate in committee work, provide feedback, and share your insights from practice. Together, we not only adapt to code changes — we influence them, ensuring they serve the public and reflect the realities of engineering practice.

Let’s embrace this season of change as an opportunity to lead with knowledge, collaboration, and foresight.

Warmly,

Dear SEAOSC Members,

As I reflect on the past month, I am especially grateful for the opportunity to attend the SEAOC Convention. This gathering was a reminder of the strength of our structural engineering community and the shared commitment we all have to advancing our profession across California.

It was wonderful to connect with colleagues from every corner of the state and to learn about the creative and impactful efforts being made to strengthen both our practice and our professional community. These conversations reminded me that while each of our Member Organizations has unique challenges and strengths, we are united in our goal of building a stronger, more resilient future for structural engineering.

One of the highlights for me was engaging with students and younger engineers. Their energy, fresh perspectives, and dedication to our field are inspiring. I was especially proud to see so many sessions presented by younger engineers—proof that the future of our profession is already leading from the front. These moments reinforce the importance of mentorship, encouragement, and creating spaces where emerging leaders can thrive.

In our Board and Committee meetings, the theme of collaboration was at the forefront. Together, we discussed ways to deepen our partnerships between Member Organizations and to align our efforts for greater impact statewide. These conversations are only the beginning, but they represent an important step toward building a more cohesive and supportive professional community.

While we know there is still much work to do, I left the convention encouraged by the enthusiasm, vision, and dedication I saw from so many of you. The excitement within our profession is real, and it gives me confidence that we are heading in the right direction—together. I look forward to carrying this momentum into the year ahead, and I invite each of you to stay engaged, share your voice, and continue building this incredible community with us. A great opportunity to do so is by joining us at the SEAOSC Committee Showcase on September 24, where you can learn more about the wide range of committees that shape our Association and find the perfect place to get involved. I hope to see you there!

Warmly,