Happy Thanksgiving!
Wishing you smooth travels, joyful gatherings, and plates full of pie. We look forward to seeing you at our December Virtual Member Meeting!
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December 9 | 12 p.m. | Virtual Member Meeting #3
Structural Evaluation of Non-Structural Elements: Coconut Fiber Reinforced Gypsum Plaster Dome
Distress and deterioration of non-structural building elements are often overlooked because they are not part of the primary structural system. However, structural evaluation of these components is sometimes necessary to determine the cause of distress and to develop repair or retrofit measures. When several cracks were observed on the interior surface of the West Virginia Capitol plaster dome, an investigation revealed that it was constructed using gypsum plaster reinforced with coconut fibers. Without relevant published literature, a series of material tests and detailed analyses were performed to evaluate the composite material, assess the structural behavior of the dome, and determine the extent of retrofitting required. Join us for a conversation with Byoung-Jun (BJ) Lee, PhD, PE, SE, of WDP & Associates on this fascinating review. 1 hour PDH will be offered.
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January 21, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. | SE3 Book Club
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men
Join SEA-MW's SE3 (Structural Engineering Engagement and Equity) Committee for an engaging discussion on the book Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men on January 21st. Author Caroline Criado Perez investigates the shocking root cause of gender inequality and research in Invisible Women, diving into women's lives at home, the workplace, the public square, the doctor's office, and more. Built on hundreds of studies in the US, the UK, and around the world, and written with energy, wit, and sparkling intelligence, this is a groundbreaking, unforgettable expose that will change the way you look at the world. This is our 5th year of book clubs, which have previously included Color of Law, The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee, The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together, and Prospering In The US: A Handbook For Immigrant Architects. * Attendees are encouraged (but not required to) read or listen to the book in advance of the discussion.*
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February 28, 2026 | 6 p.m. | Gala SEA-MW's Annual Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards
Join SEA-MW on February 28th for its 20th annual Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards Gala to recognize outstanding achievements of DC region structural engineering firms. This year's gala will be held at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Washington, DC. Proceeds from the gala support SEA-MW's scholarships as well as other programming throughout the year.
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December 11 | Volunteer Event
Jackson-Reed High School’s Annual Engineering Expo
Jackson Reed High School (a DC public school with an engineering academy) is seeking engineering professionals to review and give advice on school projects presented at their engineering expo (like a STEM fair) on December 11th.
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December 17 | 6:30 p.m. | Volunteer Event
Engineers Without Borders DC Professional Chapter Meeting
1700 K Street, NW, Roof Top Conference Center, Washington, DC
The DC Chapter of Engineers Without Borders is seeking volunteers to help change the world by partnering with communities to meet their basic human needs. Please join their monthly chapter meeting to learn more about our ongoing projects in Panama, Sierra Leone, and Peru. Expand your engineering, leadership, and project management skills to make a difference in live around the world. Chapter meeting are held the third Wednesday of each month. Registration is not required. Questions: president@ewb-dc.org.
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January & February | Volunteer Events
Volunteer at the National Building Museum!
The Community Outreach Committee invites you to share structural engineering principles with children in our community at the National Building Museum. They are looking for 5 volunteers for each event. You are welcome to bring your own kids, as long as they can help too!
STEAM Saturday on January 10th from 1 pm – 3 pm
This free program would be in connection with the WAVE installation and include the spaghetti/marshmallow activity as well as an activity on long-form roofs and bridges.
Craft Workshop on January 24th from 10 am – 2 pm
During this free drop-in program, kids will build their own geodesic domes out of straws from provided kits. Any help would be appreciated! If you love putting together Ikea furniture, then this event is for you. STEAM Saturday on February 14th from 1 pm – 3 pmThis free program would focus on engineering buildings that can resist “disasters”, such as activities focused on wind and earthquakes.
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Summer 2026 | Mentoring & Internships
Host a DC High School Summer Intern!
2026 DC Government Career Ready Internship Program
DC's Office of the State Superintendent of Education is seeking employers to host high school interns this summer through the Office of Industry Engagement’s Career Ready Internship (CRI). This is a great opportunity to expose young local talent to industries they are studying and help students build work experience and skills. CRI places high school juniors into summer internships that are specifically aligned to the industry they are studying. All students have completed two or more courses in the industry where they are being placed and are interested in gaining work experience. Interns may work up to 25 hours per week and are paid $17 per hour through funds managed by the DC government. This internship will begin June 22 and end July 31. For more information, please email osse.cte.ie@dc.gov. Employer registration deadline: January 31, 2026.
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