Meet a Committee Chair
Nick Miley
KPFF
nicholas.miley@kpff.com
Which committee are you currently a chair of? Also give a brief description of the committee.
I'm currently a co-chair of the Sustainable Design Committee. We strive to educate ourselves and others on the latest sustainable design practices, through research, collaboration, and outreach.
How long have you been a structural engineer?
I have 9 years of professional experience.
What are your favorite things about being involved in the committee you currently chair?
The great people that are in the committee and industry that we work with, being a part of the fight against climate change, and learning about new and evolving materials, resources, and opportunities for collaboration.
What will the Committee focus on this year?
Our focus this year is on supporting SE2050 (the program to reach net zero carbon emissions from structures by 2050) by providing advocacy and resources for engineers who are new to Life-Cycle Assessment and embodied carbon.
What are some of the past projects/accomplishments of the committee you are chairing?
We've had seminars and panel discussions with architects. We've done original research on carbon emissions from buildings and from concrete that has been published in SEAOC convention proceedings, and used to help develop the Bay Area Low Concrete Carbon Code.
Why are you involved in SEAONC?
SEAONC is both a professional organization and a community of like-minded individuals. It's been a great place to make connections and learn things from others who are facing similar challenges.
What are your goals this year?
Continuing to build excitement and engagement in the committee, and to re-establish connections that have been difficult due to remote work and the pandemic.
How has being a SEAONC member helped you and/or your career?
I've learned a ton from all of the various seminars and short courses that SEAONC has put on and I've had the opportunity to present at the SEAOC convention and publish articles, which definitely helped build expertise and further my career.
Tell us something about yourself that isn’t on your professional resume?
I love to experience nature and the great outdoors, be it through simple hiking/backpacking, or skiing, climbing, cycling, sailing or surfing. I also enjoy DIY projects of all types.
What do you enjoy most about structural engineering?
Definitely the creative problem solving and collaborating to turn vision into reality.
Who or what inspires you?
I'm inspired by visionaries in sustainable design like Bruce King, Larry Strain, and Ed Mazria.
Give one piece of advice to your colleagues.
Let's endeavor to talk to each other and change our practice for the better.